North Devon is one of England's great surfing coasts. The Atlantic-facing beaches between Saunton and Westward Ho! catch consistent swell and offer everything from the long, gentle rollers of Saunton Sands — perfect for learning — to the punchier, more powerful waves of Croyde Bay that draw experienced surfers from across the country. With golden sand, clean water and a deeply rooted surf culture, North Devon is an outstanding place both to learn and to progress.
Beaches for every level
Saunton Sands, with its mellow, forgiving waves and huge expanse of beach, is one of the best beginner surf spots in the UK. Westward Ho! offers a similarly accessible learning environment with two miles of Blue Flag sand. Croyde Bay, by contrast, is a higher-performance beach break that works best for those with some experience. This spread of conditions within a few miles means surf schools can match the beach to your ability on any given day.
Lessons and coaching
North Devon's surf schools cater to everyone from absolute beginners to surfers looking to refine their technique. Group lessons are an affordable, sociable way to start; private and small-group coaching accelerates progress for improvers. Wetsuits and boards are provided, and the warm Gulf Stream water makes the region surfable for much of the year.
Adventuro centres in Devon
- The North Devon Surf School — Established in 1988 and one of the UK's longest-running surf schools, 50 metres from Westward Ho!'s two miles of Blue Flag sand, with purpose-built facilities including heated changing rooms and a café.
- Coastal Adventures — Josh's North Devon operation shares a genuine passion for the ocean, making the stunning local coast accessible for surf sessions with friends, families and groups.
- Surfing Croyde Bay — A surf school based at Croyde Bay, North Devon's premier high-performance beach break, offering lessons and coaching on the area's best-known waves.
