Overview
Croyde Beach is a high-quality, hollow, peaky beachbreak on the North Devon coast, hemmed in by Downend Point to the south and Baggy Point to the north. On its day it is arguably the best beachbreak in the UK, throwing heavy, board-breaking A-frame barrels over a sand bottom with rocks at the northern and southern ends. The average surf runs a little smaller than Cornwall, but at six foot Croyde delivers Hossegor-like power.
When It Works
The bank draws swell from southwest through northwest, with west (W) the best match. It is usable from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 4.6 m / 15 ft, breaking both left and right. This is a highly consistent beach that works year-round, though the cleanest swells tend to arrive in autumn between September and November. Small summer swells still pull a crowd.
Wind and Tide
Look for east (E) offshore wind. Croyde works across all tides, with a rising tide generally the better call. Low tide is when the hollow barrels fire hardest, and the waves stay excellent as the tide pushes in.
Local Tips
Croyde suits a wide range of surfers, from beginners to shortboarders, and takes fish, longboards, bodyboards and bodysurfing alike. Expect a busy lineup when it's on, with a large local crew joined by a big influx of visitors. Once it gets big, respect the strong rips and heavy, board-breaking waves.
Access
There's a full complement of surf shops and schools around the beach. For parking, you have beachside car parks tucked behind the dunes, the National Trust car park at Baggy Point, roadside spaces, and pitches by the campsites. Restrooms, camping and lifeguard cover round out the facilities.
