5 of the top local beaches for families
A trip to Devon or Cornwall simply wouldn’t be complete without visiting the beach. Cool off with a paddle in the sea, discover what’s hiding in the rock pools, build sandcastle cities, catch some waves, enjoy lunch alfresco or run free across the sand – the beach is the perfect day out for everyone whether they’re one or ninety-one!
Our central location right in the heart of Devon and Cornwall makes it the ideal base from which to explore both coastlines and all the award-winning beaches that come with them. With the North coast less than 30 minutes away (and the South coast just a 45-minute drive away), we are truly spoilt for choice when it comes to beautiful, family-friendly beaches nearby.
With so many to choose from, we’ve rounded up our top ten recommended local beaches for families so you can skip the Google search and jump straight into having some beach fun as soon as you get here!
- Crackington Haven Beach – 23 minute drive
With lifeguard cover during the summer, this sand and shingle beach near Bude is perfect for swimming and beginner surfing. There are toilets, two cafes, the Coombe Barton Inn, a shop, and surf hire.
- Widemouth Bay – 27 minute drive
This vast sandy beach near Bude stretches nearly 2 miles and is a popular beach for surfing and families. There’s a café overlooking the beach, toilets and lifeguard cover throughout the summer. There are also a number of excellent surf schools based at Widemouth if you or the kids fancy some lessons.
- Trebarwith Strand Beach – 27 minute drive
Now owned by the National Trust, a long stretch of golden sand is revealed when the tide goes out, backed by steep cliffs with several caves and rockpools to explore. Facilities include toilets, a beach shop and café, and the Port William Inn which overlooks the beach and serves great food and local ales. There is lifeguard cover throughout the summer.
- Polzeath Beach – 50 minute drive
This extremely popular Blue Flag beach is excellent for surfing and bathing, and can get very busy in summer. There are toilets, cafes, shops, good disabled access, and lifeguard cover throughout the summer months. The area is rich in sealife and birdlife, including dolphins and (occasionally) puffins.
- Summerleaze Beach – 33 minute drive
Bude’s largest and most central beach sits proudly between the canal and river outlets to the south and the saltwater sea pool to the north. Popular due to its location, but its expanse of sand helps it feel less crowded even in the busier months. Lifeguard cover is in place over Easter, and throughout the summer. There are plenty of facilities including toilets, café-restaurants and the all-important ice cream outlets.
If you’d like any other recommendations of where to go while you’re staying with us, just ask one of our friendly staff or give us a call on 01566 86903