Ilfracombe, a picturesque coastal town in North Devon, is known for its beautiful harbour, charming Victorian architecture, and vibrant arts scene. While the town’s own beaches offer plenty of fun and entertainment, the surrounding area boasts a diverse range of coastal gems to explore.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to our 9 favourite beaches near Ilfracombe, North Devon, including famous surfing beaches each offering unique experiences for beach enthusiasts and adventure-seekers alike.
Beaches Near Ilfracombe
Best Beaches Near Ilfracombe
Ilfracombe Tunnels Beaches
The network of tunnels which run through this great selection of beaches in Ilfracombe is perfect for a family day out.
Hand-carved in the 1820s, this series of tunnels works its way through the rock face which leads onto a tidal Victorian bathing pool.
The beach also offers some wild swimming, plenty of places to explore and when it’s low tide, a beach full of flat sands.
Woolacombe Beach
Woolacombe Beach, located about a 15-minute drive from Ilfracombe, is a stunning three-mile-long sandy beach with Blue Flag status.
With its wide, golden sand and rolling surf, Woolacombe is one of the best North Devon beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach games.
Woolacombe Beach is also a popular destination for surfers, with equipment rental and surf schools available nearby.
The beach offers a range of facilities, including shops, cafés, and public toilets, making it an excellent destination for a day of seaside fun.
Croyde Bay
Croyde beach, situated about a 25-minute drive from Ilfracombe, is another beautiful sandy beach with excellent surf and a charming village atmosphere.
The beach is backed by sand dunes and offers a range of facilities, including shops, cafés, and public toilets all within walking distance.
This part of North Devon is also a popular destination for surfers, with equipment rental and surf schools available nearby.
The picturesque village of Croyde provides a range of amenities and accommodation options, making this beach an excellent destination for a coastal getaway.
It’s of the most popular beaches in North Devon and if well worth a visit.
Barricane Beach
Barricane Beach, located about a 15-minute drive from Ilfracombe, is a small, secluded cove with a unique mix of sand and shells.
This stunning secluded bay has a nearby Beach Café that offers delicious food and fantastic sea views, making this beach an excellent destination for a relaxed day by the sea with views of the rolling devon countryside.
Please note that there are no public toilets at this beach, so plan your visit accordingly.
Saunton Sands
Saunton Sands, situated about a 30-minute drive from Ilfracombe, is a stunning three-mile-long sandy beach backed by the impressive Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
With its wide, open spaces and excellent surf, this North Devon beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach games.
Saunton Sands is also a popular destination for kite surfing and sand yachting, offering plenty of adventure opportunities for thrill-seekers.
The beach offers a range of facilities, including a beachside café, public toilets, and equipment rental.
Combe Martin Beach
Combe Martin Beach, located about a 15-minute drive from Ilfracombe, is a lovely shingle beach situated within the Exmoor National Park.
Combe Martin village offers a range of amenities, including shops, cafés, and public toilets, making this beach an excellent destination for a day of seaside fun.
The nearby Exmoor National Park provides fantastic opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and photography and is near to the brilliant South West Coast Path.
Lee Bay
Lee Bay, a place of outstanding natural beauty is situated about a 10-minute drive from Ilfracombe. The picturesque secret beach with a rocky cove is surrounded by wooded hills and cliffs.
The nearby village of Lee offers a range of amenities, including shops, a pub, and public toilets, making this beach an excellent destination for a relaxed day by the sea.
The coastal path near Lee Bay provides stunning views of the surrounding coastline and is a great spot for a leisurely walk or a challenging hike.
Putsborough Sands
Putsborough Sands, located about a 25-minute drive from Ilfracombe on North Devon’s coast, is a beautiful sandy beach with Blue Flag status, offering stunning views of the surrounding coastline.
Putsborough Sands is also a popular destination for surfers, with equipment rental and surf schools available nearby.
The beach offers a range of facilities, including a café, public toilets, and a beach shop, making it an excellent destination for a full day of seaside fun.
Wildersmouth Beach
Wildersmouth Beach, situated just a short walk from Ilfracombe town centre, is a small, rocky beach with a fascinating history.
Once a busy harbour, the beach is now a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and rock pooling.
The nearby Ilfracombe Museum offers fascinating insights into the town’s maritime past, while the beautiful Capstone Hill provides stunning views of the surrounding coastline.
With its close proximity to Ilfracombe’s shops, restaurants, and attractions, Wildersmouth Beach is a convenient destination for a quick seaside escape.
Final Thoughts
The beaches near Ilfracombe offer a diverse range of coastal experiences, from the best surfing beaches to serene hidden coves. With its charming harbour, vibrant arts scene, and excellent transport links, Ilfracombe is the perfect base for exploring secluded beaches in North Devon.
So, pack your beach essentials and prepare to discover the great beaches near Ilfracombe for an unforgettable seaside adventure!
FAQs
Which is nicer Woolacombe or Ilfracombe?
Both Woolacombe and Ilfracombe have a charm about them. These seaside towns boast plenty of beaches and a great range of amenities to enjoy your time there. Personally, I prefer Woolcaombe out of the two, as it has the better beaches. Woolacombe beach is a huge sandy beach with plenty of space and great surf.
What is the secret beach in Ilfracombe?
The Tunnels Beach in Ilfracombe has hidden away amongst the rock face and provides a secluded spot to enjoy the sea and sand. The tunnels leading to the beach were built in the 1820s and feature four separate tunnels.
Founder, Editor
Ed is the founder and editor at Lifes Beaches. He’s lived near a beach his whole life and loves exploring other great places to enjoy the sun and the sea. He’s a keen surfer and enjoys finding hidden beach spots to catch the best waves.
