Sidmouth is a stretch of beach located on the south coast, featuring a mix of shingle and sand. It’s best known for needing a good southwesterly swell to really get going, or an easterly windswell might work too. A few groynes and rock sea defenses break up the beach, making it best to hit this spot at low tide. The waves can be pretty fat and rolling, and they sometimes turn into steeper sections, but don’t expect a world-class break here.

The surf is generally fun, especially for beginners and intermediates. You can expect waves that range from about 2 to 6 feet (0.6 to 1.8 meters). The bottom is made up of sand and pebbles, and the waves break both left and right. When the conditions are right, the surf can be enjoyable with the best results coming from a northwest wind. Overall, it’s a place where you’ll want to manage your expectations, as low expectations can lead to more fun on fat, rolling waves.

Access to Sidmouth is pretty straightforward, with several beachfront car parks available. The crowd factor is usually pretty low, so you can enjoy a more relaxed vibe when surfing. While the waves can provide a good session, keep in mind they're not always the cleanest. The best time to hit the water here is during winter, particularly from December to February, when there’s a better chance of the necessary swell to make this spot worth your time.