North Devon is well-known for its beautiful coastline, with much of it located within the North Devon Coast Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With striking scenery and towering cliffs, there is so much to explore in this area of the coast. Barnstaple, itself, is not located on the coast, but there are lots of beaches super close, making a trip to the beach the ideal day out. Many of the beaches are near enough that you can leave the car and take public transport to the beach. For recommendations for the best beaches to visit around Barnstaple, check out our list below!
Combe Martin Beach
Combe Martin Beach is located just below the small village resort which gives it its name. The beach is a good walk from the centre of Combe Martin but there is a large car park above the beach, which has a public toilet and stairs allowing direct access. Around the beach there are various shops and cafes. The beach is flanked by some of the highest sea cliffs in England providing shelter from strong winds, waves, and currents. It is the perfect swimming location. There are no lifeguards present on this beach throughout the year, however, so please swim with caution. The beach itself is a mixture of mostly shingle and pebbles, but it becomes sandier as you reach the shore. It is a great place to come with children because there are lots of rockpools to explore on either end of the beach.
Hele Bay Beach
Hele Bay is a sand and shingle cove located east of Ilfracombe. At low tide, there are rockpools on both sides of the beach, making it the ideal spot for young children to explore. However, there are no lifeguards present on the beach at any point throughout the year, so be sure to keep a close eye. Parking and facilities are available within walking distance, with access to the beach via a slipway. Bring your pooch along with you, as there are no restrictions at this beach.
Instow Beach
Instow is a pretty, sandy beach located on the edge of the Torridge Estuary. Protected by the sandbanks of the Taw, it is one of the best beaches to visit around Barnstaple for families. It is the closest beach to Barnstaple. If you do plan on visiting Instow beach, please bear in mind that swimming in the sea is not advised. However, it is the ideal base for sunbathing, playing in the sand or kayaking. Dogs are allowed on the beach.
Lee Bay
A sand and shingle beach backing onto the charming village of Lee. The bay is wonderfully secluded and flanked by rocky coastline. The beach is quiet and unspoiled making it popular with families for picnicking, swimming, rock pooling and canoeing. Dogs are welcome on the beach all year round. It is best to visit Lee Bay beach at low tide, otherwise you will not find much sand; however, there is always lots of rockpools, caves and formations to explore no matter the tide! There are no lifeguards present at this beach.
Putsborough Sands
Three miles of golden sands stretching north towards Woolacombe and Morte Point. It forms the southside of Woolacombe beach. The beach is popular for surfers, especially longboarders, due to the nature of the beach. It is the only beach in the area to have some protection from south and south-westerly winds thanks to a headland known as Baggy Point. There are no lifeguards or dogs can have a run around on certain areas. If you are a surfer, this is definitely a spot to check out on Your Devon Escape.
Tunnels Beaches
One of the best beaches to visit around Barnstaple is Tunnels Beaches. Located in Ilfracombe, it is a large network of hand-carved tunnels leading to unique sheltered beaches and tidal Victorian bathing pools. Sit back and admire the lovely, rugged scenery while the kids play safely in the tidal pool. There are no lifeguards or dogs at these beaches. Steeped in history, these beaches are perfect for all ages and interests!
Westward Ho!
If you are a surfer, swimmer, kayaker, or paddle boarder, this is one of the best beaches to visit around Barnstaple. Westward Ho! is a long sandy stretch of beach. There are designated surfing areas, and slipways over the pebbles at the RNLI points. Lifeguards are present on the beach throughout the summer, making it the perfect spot for swimming and adventure activities. There are numerous amusement arcades, cafes, restaurants, and tearooms at prices to suit a range of budgets, and plenty of parking. Pack up the car for a fun-filled day at the beach on Your Devon Escape. Why not bring your pooch along for the fun!
For more ideas for what to do on Your Devon Escape, why not check out our journal for recommendations. Or make us all jealous by sharing your adventures with #yourdevonescape. Tag us on Facebook @YourDevonEscape, on Instagram @your_devon_escape or TikTok @yourdevonescapeltd.