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Home » Caravan Holiday Ideas in the UK » Seaside Spotlight: Woolacombe Beach, Devon

Seaside Spotlight: Woolacombe Beach, Devon

    Let’s explore Woolacombe Beach!

    The beach at Woolacombe, North Devon, England, UK, on one of the hottest days of the year.

    This month, we’re taking a trip to the popular South West English coast and taking a closer look at Woolacombe Beach in North Devon.

    The South West is a popular region for UK beach holidays for a reason.

    Between the clean beaches, warm weather, and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s not difficult to see why people keep coming back, and new visitors are drawn to the region year after year.

    What’s Woolacombe Beach Like?

    The Best of South West England!

    A group of snorkelers lying on the edge of the water with their colorful flippers raised in the air, enjoying a bright, sunny day with a clear blue sky.

    As a South West Beach, visitors to Woolacombe Beach can expect a well-taken-care-of, warm-weather, and family-friendly beach that’s also popular for surfing and other watersports like kitesurfing and paddleboarding.

    Woolacombe Beach was previously named ‘Britain’s Best Beach’ by the Coast Magazine Awards in 2012 and TripAdvisor in 2015 and previously held a blue flag award. 

    The weather on the South and Southwest coasts is noticeably drier and sunnier than in the rest of the UK, which is one reason for the effect of the Gulf Stream warming the regions.

    Whatever the reasons, you can expect slightly warmer summers and milder winters when holidaying in Dorset, Devon, or Cornwall!

    A close-up of an old map of South West England, focusing on the counties of Devon and Cornwall, with towns and landmarks clearly labeled.

    Where is Woolacombe Beach?

    Woolacombe Beach is located in the tiny but popular seaside resort of Woolacombe in North Devon, England, which is in the larger Mortehoe parish.

    How long is Woolacombe Beach?

    The beach is a 2-mile long sandy and gently sloping beach facing the Atlantic Ocean.

    Things to do at Woolacombe Beach

    A woman in a yellow bikini kneeling on a paddleboard, smiling and holding a paddle, on a calm body of water with a tree-lined shore in the background.

    Woolacombe Beach is popular with surfers and watersport enthusiasts but is also incredibly popular with families looking for the best UK beach holidays!

    The little ones can explore and discover marine life in a rockpool when the tide is out or get involved in classic beach games with plenty of space to run around on this expansive two-mile-long beach.

    Adults can watch the watersports going on in the ocean while relaxing on the peaceful and well-kept beachside.

    Woolacombe Beach is a great UK beach that satisfies everybody from surfers to families with young children.

    Are There Lifeguards at Woolacombe Beach?

    An RNLI lifeguard service is present most of the day from 04 May—29 September, ensuring everyone’s safety. The service is paid for by the car parking fees at Woolacombe Beach.

    The lifeguards will clearly mark out safe swim and surf areas for people to enjoy themselves safely.

    Is Woolacombe Beach dog-friendly

    Yes, the two-mile-long Woolacombe Beach has a separate area for families with dogs with plenty of room to explore.

    Coffee, Ice Cream & an Ice Cold Beer

    After a long and enjoyable day at the beach, you’ll want to relax and re-fuel, and there are plenty of local options to do just that! From seaside favourites, cooling treats, or hearty classics, you’ll definitely find something that hits the spot!

    Beachside Bites – The Captain’s Table

    Close-up of a powdered chocolate pastry topped with a fresh raspberry on a red and white checkered cloth. A to-go coffee cup sits in the background, with smooth stones scattered on the surface.

    The Captain’s Table is a great beachside restaurant that caters to everyone, from families to surfers. The restaurant serves everything from seafood platters and freshly battered cod to British classics like cottage pie and steaks; with gluten-free and vegan-friendly options available, too. 

    Group bookings are available. There is outdoor seating to take in the beautiful seaside views, and it is dog-friendly!

    Local Favourite – Beach House Restaurant

    A happy family dining at a restaurant. The young girl feeds her smiling mother while sitting on her father's lap. Everyone is smiling.

    The popular Beach House Restaurant is a 20-minute walk from Woolacombe Beach.

    You can get anything from indulgent steaks with a glass of wine to children’s favourites like burgers, spaghetti, or even a Sunday roast!

    Beer – The Tide’s Inn

    A group of friends sitting outdoors at a wooden table, raising glasses of beer in a toast, with bowls of snacks in the foreground.

    Outdoor seating, a full bar, and free WiFi…what more could you want?

    The Tide’s Inn is a waterfront eatery that offers table service is vegetarian-friendly and has vegan and gluten-free options. You can find high-quality seafood, tuck into a hearty roast dinner, or relax and enjoy a beautiful beach sunset with a drink.

    Sweet Treats – Fudgies Bakehouse

    Fudgies Bakehouse near Woolacombe Beach is a favourite with tourists. A close-up of freshly baked Cornish pasties, golden brown with crimped edges, resting on a wooden surface.

    A 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive from Woolacombe Beach, Fudgies Bakehouse serves is ideal for an end-of-day sweet treat. They serve ice creams and gelatos and are popular for their pasties!

    They cater to special diets and have vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options available. Meals can be taken out, and Fudgies is wheelchair accessible.

    Accessibility at Woolacombe Beach

    Woolacombe Beach is accessible for people with low mobility. Man with disability with his service dog at sunset using electric wheelchair.

    Disabled & Low Mobility Access

    There is easy ramp access from the Esplanade to the beach.  

    The Beach Easy Wheelchair is available to book for half a day or a full day (times vary according to the time of year). There is a fee for wheelchair hire, and a security deposit is required.  

    You can also book a Tramper mobility scooter for a 2-hour session.

    Anyone using the scooter must be accompanied by an adult and carry a mobile phone. When renting, you’ll get training on how to use the tramper.

    A blue parking sign with a large white 'P' and an arrow pointing to the right, showing the direction of a parking area.

    Parking at Woolacombe Beach

    There are a few parking options at Woolacombe Beach.

    The Esplanade Car Park (Long or Short Stay) and Sandy Burrows Car Park (Long Stay) are closest to the beach. In the summer months, they charge £12 to park from 9 am to 10 pm.

    If you leave by 1 pm, this is lowered to £6. Entry to this car park after 4 pm costs £5 to park until 10 pm. Overnight parking is not permitted.

    Take a look at this full list of car parking facilities available at Woolacombe Beach.

    Summary

    Woolacombe Beach in Devon is difficult to top if you’re considering a UK staycation. It’s a family and dog-friendly beach located on the warm South West coast of England.

    This North Devon Beach is well-maintained with clear, award-winning waters that are recognised as some of the best in Europe. Walking & hiking in Devon is popular with visitors to the area, and cycling in Devon is also becoming a favourite activity

    There are lifeguards for everyone’s safety and peace of mind, and the welcoming beach is accessible with hire options for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. It’s no wonder it’s quickly becoming a very popular destination for anyone who wants a quality beach holiday in the UK!

    Holiday Parks Near Woolacombe Beach, Devon

    Hele Valley Holiday Park, Ilfracombe

    Cozy static caravan at Hele Valley Holiday Park, near Woolacombe Beach. The caravan features a a wooden deck with potted plants and flowers. There is a grassy area in front of the deck.

    Discover tranquility at Hele Valley Holiday Park. Book your stay now for a relaxing getaway in the stunning North Devon scenery and great local attractions. Don’t miss out!

    Surf Bay Holiday Park, Bideford

    A scenic view from Surf Bay Holiday Park near Woolacombe Beach, showing a grassy field leading to a calm body of water with a coastal town and rolling hills in the background under a clear sky.

    Experience the perfect coastal retreat at Surf Bay Holiday Park. Reserve your spot today for sun, surf, and unforgettable family memories. Adventure awaits!