Watersports

SURFING

Learn to surf at some of the UK best surf spots and improve your surfing skills, from beginner to competition level. North Devon offers the best in surfing facilities anywhere in the UK. Try learning to surf at Saunton Sands, it is five miles long with plenty of room for beginners and offers a gently sloping beach where the waves are more accomodating for those new to the sport. For a more intermediate waves, try Woolacombe, it has three miles of golden sands with plenty of parking and hire facilities, the beach has a slightly bigger gradient than Saunton causing the waves to break with more power but it does provide the next test for improving surfers. the beach is lifeguarded during the summer months but the low tide rip currents can cause problems. ore experienced surfers progress on to the more demanding Croyde Bay where the low tide waves are legendary in the surfing community. Croyde is reputed to have the best beach break and when the conditions are right, the waves are fantastic. during big surf conditions, only those with significant experience should venture out, especially at low tide where the rip currents are incredibly strong. During the summer months, it does offer a fantastic fun wave and is lifeguarde for swimmers and less experienced surfers. All three beaches have fantastic access with toilet facilities and surf hire shops right next to the beach.

Be safe with Instructors who are fully qualified with the British Surfing Association and fully qualified beach life guards. They will teach you beach safety and how to surf safely.

Other Watersports that are very popular in North Devon include water skiing and wake boarding. These typically take place on the Taw estuary and can be arranged with local instructors should you wish. Sea, course and fly fishing are also widely available. Sea fishing trips can be arranged from Ilfracombe or by private charter from Clovelly. Fly fishing is available, the Fox and Hounds Hotel at Eggesford organise day trips on their own River Taw beats. There are numerous coarse fisheries nearby including the very picturesque Little comfort Farm which is only a short drive from Goulds farm through the Devon countryside.

Windsurfing is very popular, the enclosed estuary is ideal during high surf and wind conditions but Saunton Sands is a very popular location. Jet skiing is a rapidly growing sport with a specificly designated area at Instow with easy access for those using jet skis.