Saunton Sands

In terms of drawing the crowds, Saunton Sands is probably the most popular of Saunton and Braunton beaches. Saunton has it all, from 3 miles of flawless sand, to great waves and of course the famous sand dunes of Braunton Burrows running behind it. Probably due to its picturesque appearance, Saunton Sands has appeared in several films over the years.

In 1982 Pink Floyd’s film The Wall featured it, and more recently the music video for ‘Angels’ by Robbie Williams was filmed on the sands too! Due to its long length, Saunton Sands is particularly popular with large groups, especially of surfers.

Woolacombe Beach

With a selection of awards under its belt, Woolacombe beach attracts familes and surfers in the hundreds year after year. If you find yourself wondering what the neighbouring stretches of sand are like during beach holidays in Saunton and Braunton, Woolacombe Beach will not disappoint.

With 3 miles of sand, plenty of space for everyone and fabulous surf, Woolacombe Beach is a friendly and lively spot to enjoy the shore! The beach is lifeguarded in the summer, so whether you’re surfing or keeping an eye on the children you can relax, and areas of the sand are dog-friendly too.

Croyde Bay

Set in a spacey, sheltered Bay beside a scenic North Devon village, Croyde Beach has a charm all of its own. Just a short drive from the Saunton and Braunton beaches, Croyde Beach is world famous for its place in the hearts of surfers!

The Blue Flag beach and lines of sand dunes make for a great day out in a beautiful bay. Croyde Bay beach is lifeguarded during high season, and dogs are not allowed between May and September.

The beach is well-equipped, with toilets, equipment hire, a first aid room, refreshments kiosk and disabled access too.

Putsborough Sands Beach

Despite being surrounded by some of the UK’s most popular sands, Putsborough Beach holds its own as one of the most popular Braunton beaches! One of the area’s cleanest and prettiest beaches, Pustbourough Sands Beach is a perfect patchwork of golden sand, clear waters and bracing waves.

The undeveloped feel of Putsborough Sands adds to its charm, and with plenty of parking, toilets and equipment hire there is just the right amount of facilities. The beach’s rock pools will entertain small children for hours at low tide, and at high tide they will be able to watch the adults surf and bodyboard in the distance.

Ilfracombe Tunnels Beaches

Ilfracombe Tunnels Beaches are a fascinating reminder of more demure days gone by! The private beaches can only be accessed via four handmade tunnels which were cut into the cliffs by the Victorians in an attempt to enforce separate bathing for the sexes!

History aside, Tunnels Beach is well worth the small charge to enjoy it, and also includes a tidal bathing pool which is great for children and those less confident in the sea. The tunnels have been used for all kinds of reasons over the years, from smuggles to hideaways, but don'y worry - they're just a unique access route to the stunning beaches these days!

For more area guides and info on Saunton & Braunton holidays please see below:

Dog friendly Braunton & Saunton holidays

Saunton family attractions

Saunton and Braunton walks

Eating out in Braunton