PLANNING A VISIT TO CROYDE?
You’ve picked one of the most iconic seaside villages in North Devon. Famous for its golden beach, consistent surf, dramatic headlands and brilliant places to eat, there’s far more here than just a day on the sand.
As locals who work, surf and explore here every day, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to help you experience the very best of the area, from must-do outdoor adventures to relaxed spots to refuel afterwards.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, a family holiday or a surf trip, here are the top things to do in Croyde.
Surfing & Water Activities in Croyde
No visit to the village is complete without getting in the water. Croyde Bay is one of the UK’s best-known surf beaches, offering fun waves for beginners and challenging peaks for experienced riders.
During lifeguard season the beach is patrolled, making it a fantastic place to try surfing for the first time or build confidence beyond the whitewater.
surfing croyde bay
surf lessonS
If you’re new or want to improve faster, professional coaching makes all the difference. Our qualified instructors run lessons for complete beginners through to progressors looking to head out back.
Small group sizes, premium equipment, and decades of local knowledge mean you’ll be in the right place at the right time for the conditions.
After your session, warm up with panoramic sea views and a revitalising dip. It’s quickly become one of the most talked-about experiences in the village.
Surfboard & Wetsuit Hire
Already surf? You can travel light and pick up some quality kit when you arrive. From soft boards to performance shapes, we’ll match you with the right equipment for the day.
Coasteering Adventures
Explore the coastline from a totally different angle with guided cliff jumps, sea cave exploration and tidal movement sessions around the headlands.
Wood-Fired Sauna & Cold Plunge
After your session, warm up with panoramic sea views and a revitalising dip. It’s quickly become one of the most talked-about experiences in the village.
👉 Top tip: In busy periods, book activities in advance, Croyde fills up quickly.
surfing croyde bay
Coastal Walks & Scenery
If you prefer to stay dry, the walking here is spectacular.
One of the absolute highlights is Baggy Point, managed by the National Trust. Expect dramatic cliffs, seabirds, rolling farmland and some of the best views back across the bay.
Routes range from gentle strolls to longer circular hikes, and photographers love the sunset light from the headland.
👉 Many walkers reward themselves afterwards with coffee or a sauna session back at Cafe Croyde Bay or in the village.
surfing croyde bay
Places to eat and drink in croyde
You’ll never go hungry here. Despite being a small village, Croyde punches well above its weight when it comes to food, offering everything from cosy pubs and evening dining to quick, high-quality bites close to the sand.
Popular favourites include:
The Thatch – a historic pub packed with character, hearty classics and a lively atmosphere
Blue Groove – relaxed dining, cocktails, and regular live music
Biffen’s Kitchen – legendary street-food style wraps loved by locals and visitors alike
If you’re searching for breakfast in Croyde, a laid-back brunch near the beach, or excellent coffee after surfing, Cafe Croyde Bay is perfectly placed just moments from the shoreline. Expect generous plates, locally sourced ingredients, great vegetarian options, and specialty coffee, ideal for fueling a morning’s adventure or relaxing once you’re out of the water.
Many visitors combine brunch with a session in our wood-fired sauna and cold plunge, making it one of the most popular ways to spend a morning in the village
surfing croyde bay
Things to Do in Croyde for Families
Croyde is ideal for kids.
The sandy beach is perfect for sandcastles, paddling, and exploring rock pools at low tide. Lifeguards in peak months add reassurance, while the village remains small enough to feel friendly and easy to navigate.
Popular family ideas include:
Booking lessons together is often the highlight of a family holiday.
surfing croyde bay
Relax and Unwind
After long walks, surf sessions, or travel days, slowing down is part of the magic.
Ocean views, fresh air, and hot-cold therapy are the perfect combination to reset tired legs and clear the mind. Pair it with great coffee, and you’ve got a very good afternoon.
Many visitors start with time in our wood-fired sauna and cold plunge, letting the heat work into tired muscles before cooling off and soaking up the view back across Croyde Bay.
If you’re looking to go deeper into recovery or relaxation, you’re in good hands locally, too:
Croyde Yoga – beachside and studio sessions with Tiffany, perfect for stretching, mobility, and mindful movement
Bay Fitness – Blakey’s popular strength and conditioning classes to rebuild energy after time in the water
Natalia Mae Therapies – restorative massage treatments ideal for post-surf recovery
Together, they make Croyde an incredible place not just to play hard, but to properly recharge.
surfing croyde bay
Rainy Day or Flat-Sea Ideas
Even when the ocean rests or the weather turns, there’s still plenty to enjoy.
Many visitors choose:
coastal drives
exploring nearby villages
cosy up at the cinema
And stormy seas can make for incredible wave watching.
surfing croyde bay
Seasonal Hightlights in Croyde
Every time of year offers something different.
Spring & Summer → lifeguards, warmer water, buzzing village atmosphere.
Autumn → quieter beaches, clean swell, beautiful light.
Winter → dramatic scenery, peaceful walks, perfect sauna weather.
Repeat visitors often end up with a favourite season.
surfing croyde bay
FAQ's About visiting Croyde
Is Croyde good for beginner surfers?
Yes, it’s one of the best places in the country to learn, especially during lifeguard season.
Do I need to book in advance?
Highly recommended during holidays and sunny weekends.
Is parking easy?
There are several pay & display options close to the beach, but they fill early in peak times.
Can I hire equipment locally?
Yes, surfboards and wetsuits are widely available.
Trip Advisor
Surfing Croyde Bay has a 5 star Tripadvisor rating and is also rated #1 for Things To Do in Croyde.
SURF SCHOOL
Discover all surf lessons designed by England Surfing Head Coach Damon Beveridge. Group lessons, Private lessons and 1:1 coaching.
COASTEERING
See the coast like never before coasteering. Find out all about our coasteering adventures.
SURF HIRE
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, our equipment and expert guidance ensure you have everything you need to ride the waves confidently. Dive into Croyde Bay’s surf with ease—book your gear today!
OUR TEAM
Meet our team — coaches trained and guided to the highest standard, committed to delivering exceptional surf experiences at Surfing Croyde Bay
