Local Area Information

With its 3 miles of golden sands, lovely sea, stunning coastal foot paths and friendly village, Woolacombe really does have something for everyone. It is a popular destination for walkers, bird watchers and families and is part of the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The beach has continuously been recognised as one of the best beaches in Europe. It won the title of Britains Best Beach in the "Coast Magazine Award 2012" and was awarded the same prize of Britains Best Beach in 2015 and 2016 by TripAdvisor, also ranking in their polls as 4th best beach in Europe and 13th best in the world. The beach water quality is monitored regularly by the environment agency and meets its highest standards.

There are several other beaches in Woolacombe bay. Baracane Beach is a Designated Site of Scientific interest because of the mass of shells of all shapes and colours which reach this small inlet from the Caribbean. Further along, Coombsgate Beach, like Woolacombe is made up of fine golden sand and is perfect for snorkelling at high tide. The next beach, Grunta, earned its name when a cargo ship of pigs ran aground here. These smaller beaches are perfect for rock pooling when the tide is out. Putsborough Beach is at the far end of Woolacombe Beach by Baggy Point and there is a lovely beach cafe here with stunning views of the whole area.

The village of Woolacombe offers a wide choice of cafes, pubs, restaurants and a range of shops selling groceries, gifts and clothing. There is also a chemist, post office and news agents.