Is North Devon the best place to surf?

The top 10 surf schools in Devon according to Tripadvisor are all situated in North Devon, firmly establishing the region as a prime destination for surf enthusiasts. This reaffirms North Devon as the county's premier surfing hub, firmly establishing the region as the go-to spot for wave riders.

The rankings on the traveller review site reflect feedback from visitors, crowning Woolacombe Surf Centre as the top choice, with Surf South West in Croyde closely following in second place, and The North Devon Surf School in Westward Ho! securing the third spot.

Notably, all 10 surf school recommendations featured on the site are concentrated in North Devon and Torridge, indicating a strong preference for this region among surfing enthusiasts.

Moreover, this trend extends beyond the top 10, with many other schools from the area making significant appearances in the top 20 rankings.

The Woolacombe Bay Holiday Park's website further cements its status as a leading destination for surfers. According to their website, North Devon has emerged as the superior choice over South Devon for optimal surfing conditions.

"North Devon's rugged coastline, battered by the elements, offers prime conditions for surf enthusiasts," stated the holiday park on their website.

North Devon’s  reputation has also received a significant boost with the prestigious designation as a World Surfing Reserve.

Michelle, spokesperson for North Devon Surf School, who ranked third on Tripadvisor, explained the region's consistency in wave quality: "The best thing about North Devon is the consistency of the waves, meaning that the majority of the time our coastlines are blessed with good surf." She also highlighted the significance of local legends like Andrew Cotton and the esteemed presence of Surfing England's headquarters.

Venturing along North Devon's shoreline, there are a variety of surf spots catering to all skill levels.

Saunton, offering gentle swells ideal for beginners and longboarders, to the adrenaline-pumping breaks of Croyde, favoured by advanced surfers.

There are many great beaches along North Devon, each offering its own unique surfing conditions:

• Woolacombe, suitable for beginners to intermediate surfers, is lifeguarded from Easter to September. 
• Putsborough, also suitable for beginners to intermediate surfers, does not have lifeguards. 
• Croyde is ideal for intermediate to professional surfers and is lifeguarded from April to late October. 
• Saunton, suitable for beginners to intermediate surfers, is not lifeguarded. 
• Westward Ho!, perfect for beginners, is lifeguarded from Easter to September.

Among these beaches, Westward Ho! emerges as a haven for novice surfers, boasting safe conditions with minimal rip currents. 

Meanwhile, Woolacombe, Putsborough, Croyde, and Saunton each offer their own unique surfing challenges and thrills, drawing enthusiasts from far and wide. 

With this, there are also many surf schools visitors and locals alike can visit, take up surfing and enjoy what North Devon offers best.