Let’s get straight to it: the North Devon coast is absolutely cracking. Stretching from the cliffs around Lynton and Lynmouth to the sandy sweeps of Westward Ho!, this part of the world offers something for every kind of seaside daydreamer. Think rugged headlands, surf-friendly beaches, hidden coves and old fishing villages that still smell faintly of salt and seaweed in the best possible way.
If your idea of a great British break involves windswept walks, cream teas with a view, and the odd seal sighting, then the North Devon coast should be high on your list. It’s a corner of the country that doesn’t just offer scenery—it offers proper escape.
Map and Key Locations
To get your bearings, have a quick glance at this North Devon coast map. You’ll see that the region loosely runs from the Exmoor border down past Barnstaple, wrapping around the Atlantic edge of the county.
Towns like Ilfracombe, Combe Martin, and Appledore dot the shoreline. Ilfracombe offers Victorian charm and a busy harbour, while Appledore delivers pastel-painted cottages and estuary views. Lynmouth and Lynton, perched where the cliffs meet the sea, offer more dramatic landscapes, and Westward Ho! (yes, exclamation mark included) serves up a wide, family-friendly beach.
So whether you’re looking for surf, seafood, or scenic strolls, the Devon North coast is happy to oblige.
Did you know? The name “Westward Ho!” Comes from the 1855 novel by British author Charles Kingsley.
Popular Beaches and Nature Spots
The Golden Coast North Devon is famous for, well, its golden beaches. You’ve probably heard of Woolacombe, a multi-award-winning beach that lives up to the hype. It’s long, sandy, and has space for just about everything: sunbathing, swimming, dog walking, and even sandcastle competitions if you’re feeling nostalgic. There’s a classic British seaside atmosphere too, perfect if you like your beach days with a side of ice cream or a chip butty.
Croyde Bay is a smaller, more rugged spot beloved by surfers and those who prefer their coastlines with a bit more going on. The waves here are excellent for all levels, and the coastal path above offers panoramic views if you fancy a short clifftop walk before hitting the pub.
Then there’s Saunton Sands, a dream for paddleboarders and families with its gentler surf and seemingly endless dunes. It’s backed by Braunton Burrows, one of the largest dune systems in the UK and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Nature lovers should veer off the sand and head to the Valley of Rocks, near Lynton. It’s not technically a beach, but the wild goats, jagged rocks and sweeping sea views make it one of the most striking places along the North Devon coast.
Outdoor Activities and Attractions
This is where the North Devon coast really earns its stripes. Walkers can enjoy endless routes along the South West Coast Path, where cliff-top walks are matched only by the quality of the pub lunches at the end. Check out our dedicated post on the best walks and trails in Devon for more.
Surfing is practically a religion here, especially around Croyde and Woolacombe. You can rent gear or take a lesson if you’re new to it. If you prefer something a little gentler, kayaking around Combe Martin is a lovely way to see the coastline from sea level.
Boat trips, sea fishing, coasteering, and stand-up paddleboarding are all easy to organise along this stretch. Inland, you’ll also find attractions like Arlington Court and the Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway. It’s a great activity for families with young kids, or just those who are young at heart. As you can imagine, the views are out of this world.
Travel Tips and Best Seasons
When it comes to visiting the North Devon coast, timing makes a difference. Summer is, unsurprisingly, the busiest and sunniest. Expect more events, open cafés, and bustling beaches. Spring and early autumn, however, are quieter and still beautiful, especially for walkers and nature fans.
If you’re keen to explore the North Devon coast map in a more relaxed way, visiting midweek outside of the school holidays can give you the space to breathe and take in the sights without the crowds.
Pack for unpredictability—this is Devon, after all. Layers, waterproofs, and suncream should all go in the bag. Oh, and comfy walking shoes: even if you’re not a hiker, we can guarantee you’ll be tempted to roam.
Accommodation Options
Whether you want a boutique hotel, a cosy B&B, or a self-catering cottage where you can cook up your own seafood suppers, you’ll find plenty of options if you search: hotels North Devon coast.
But if you’re looking for something a little more personal, Fresh Escapes has you covered. We offer thoughtfully curated accommodation across the region, from countryside boltholes to seafront hideaways. Our properties are perfect for couples on a coastal retreat, families looking to stretch out by the sea, or solo travellers in need of a quiet escape. You’ll sleep well here, and you’ll wake up to coastal views that make the early mornings worth it.
Start Planning Your North Devon Visit
The North Devon coast isn’t just a pretty face. It offers real variety, from beachside buzz to peaceful clifftop walks, from fish and chips on the harbour wall to early morning swims in hidden coves.
Whether you’re after a family holiday, a couple’s retreat, or a long weekend of sea air and simplicity, you’ll find what you’re looking for along the Golden Coast North Devon.
And when it comes to places to stay, remember that Fresh Escapes is here to help. With hand-picked holiday homes across the Devon North coast, we make it easy to find your perfect base.
Take a look at our North Devon collection and start planning your coastal escape today.
