Before you set off
Today's snapshot
Croyde is a mid-tide beach. At low water the waves can pitch forward and break across the bay at once, while high tide leaves very little beach and a heavy break at the shoreline. Beginners should only surf here in smaller conditions with a lesson; Woolacombe or Saunton are usually more forgiving alternatives.
Plan your visit
Getting there
Down End car park at the northern end of the bay is the closest to the sand. The village car park is a short walk away and the National Trust car park at Baggy Point suits walkers.
- Parking: Down End car park is closest to the beach and uses number-plate cameras. Croyde village car park and the National Trust car park at Baggy Point are the alternatives.
- Dog rules: Dogs banned from the sand 1 May - 30 September, all 24 hours (not just daytime). Dogs permitted on coast path and dunes behind the beach during the ban. Unrestricted 1 October - 30 April.
- Accessibility: A ramped, step-free route runs from the northern end of Down End car park to the beach, though the loose sand beyond it is hard going on wheels.
- Lifeguards: RNLI lifeguards patrol through the main summer season. Swim between the red and yellow flags.
Get in the water
Hire & lessons
If you are new to surfing at Croyde, book a lesson so a local instructor can choose a suitable part of the bay for the conditions.
Surf South West
An accredited surf school running group, private and adaptive lessons at Croyde.
Surfing Croyde Bay
Lessons for all levels with small groups, changing rooms and a café on site.
Croyde Bay Surf Hire
Surfboard, bodyboard and wetsuit hire beside the beach.
After the beach
Eat, drink & stay
Croyde village is a five-minute walk from the sand and has several places for food and drink after a session.
The Thatch
The thatched village pub at the centre of Croyde, with food, live music and rooms.
Blue Groove
A café bar on Hobb's Hill serving coffee and a range of vegetarian options.
The Manor Croyde
A large family and dog-friendly pub with a garden and play area.
Local perspective
Local notes
Croyde is small, and that's the point. The sandbanks focus the swell into short, hollow waves that break harder than anything else nearby, which is why the car park fills with boards the moment a decent forecast appears.
If you're learning, go with a school or head round to Woolacombe or Saunton instead - Croyde is unforgiving on a big day and gets crowded fast. Time your visit for mid tide, and if the surf is flat, the short coastal walk to Baggy Point gives wide views across the bay.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Is Croyde beach dog friendly?
Dogs banned from the sand 1 May - 30 September, all 24 hours (not just daytime). Dogs permitted on coast path and dunes behind the beach during the ban. Unrestricted 1 October - 30 April.
What's the best tide for Croyde?
Mid tide, while the water is either rising or falling, usually gives the best wave shape. High tide leaves little beach and can produce a powerful break directly at the shoreline.
Is Croyde good for beginner surfers?
Only in smaller conditions and with a lesson. Croyde is powerful and becomes crowded quickly, so complete beginners will usually find gentler waves at Woolacombe or Saunton.
Is it safe to swim at Croyde today?
Check the Environment Agency Swimfo profile and Safer Seas & Rivers Service before swimming for the latest water-quality information.
Where do you park for Croyde beach?
Down End car park is closest to the sand, with the village car park and the National Trust car park at Baggy Point as alternatives.
Is Croyde beach pram or buggy friendly?
Yes, as far as the sand. A ramped, step-free route runs from the northern end of Down End car park to the beach, though the loose sand beyond it is hard going on wheels.
What facilities are available at Croyde?
Croyde has public toilets, including accessible facilities, and outdoor showers near the beach. RNLI lifeguards patrol seasonally and provide first aid while on duty. Accessible parking and paths are available, though the loose sand is difficult for wheelchairs, and cafés and kiosks are close to the beach.
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