Croyde Bay is England's open secret—a picturesque Devon beach break that consistently outperforms its more famous Cornish cousin Fistral when conditions align. The bay's northwest-facing orientation hoovers up Atlantic swells while the sandbar formations create steep, hollow peaks that can rival anything in Europe on their day. The postcard-perfect village backdrop and thatched-roof charm belie the wave's legitimate punch. Croyde has cultivated a tight-knit local scene, and those who know understand why this sleepy Devon cove deserves its whispered reputation as Britain's best beach break.
Water temp
14°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
4/10
Crowd level
6/10
Access: Beach access from village.
Peak: Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Apr, May, Aug
Autumn-Winter best. Picks up more swell than south coast.
Verified by UK surf community
How well swell angle matches the spot
Wave height in the ideal range
Each spot has different period requirements. Points and reefs can handle longer periods than beaches.
Offshore/glassy conditions