Woolacombe Beach

Award-winning Woolacombe Beach is widely recognised as one of the best beaches in the UK. Located on Devon’s north coast, between Croyde and Ilfracombe, the 3-mile sandy beach is popular with surfers and families looking for a traditional seaside experience.

Since 1848, the beach has been in the private ownership of Parkin Estates (3rd generation) who continue to manage and invest in the resort. Previously it was owned by the Chichester family for over 800 years.

Woolacombe beach has excellent services including daily cleaning and beach hut rentals. Lifeguards operate on the beach which is popular for kayaking, walking, swimming and kitesurfing as well as surfing. The village of Woolacombe lies at the northern end of the beach, and has plenty of seaside shops, cafes, restaurants and B&B’s.

Overlooked by the South West Coast Path and edged with sand dunes, Woolacombe Beach has superb views to Lundy Island in the Bristol Channel.

During WW2, the beach was used to train the US Army in amphibious landings as part of the Normandy Landings. There is a stone memorial to the soldiers on the grassy headland at the north end of this golden sandy bay.