Crackington Haven

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

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.

Summerleaze

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.

Polzeath

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.