Saunton Sands

## The spot Saunton Sands is a vast, three-mile beach break on the North Devon coast, stretching south from Croyde towards Braunton Burrows. The beach faces west-northwest and picks up Atlantic swell with excellent consistency. The sand is wide, flat, and the waves are predominantly gentle, making it one of the best beginner beaches in the south-west. On bigger days, defined peaks form further out that offer more push for intermediates. ## When it works Picks up any westerly Atlantic swell. An easterly offshore wind creates clean conditions. Works on all tides due to the gentle gradient. Consistent from September through May. The 2-5ft range is ideal for most users. Even on small summer days, the inside reforms produce rideable whitewater for learners. A rare genuinely flat day at Saunton means the Atlantic is basically dead. ## Where to sit The beach is so vast that peaks exist everywhere. The main car park section is busiest. Walking south for 10 minutes reveals quieter peaks. The banks near any stream outlet tend to be more defined. On bigger days, outside peaks offer more push. The inside whitewater is consistent and perfect for learning at any point along the beach. ## Hazards Very safe overall. The gentle gradient and sandy bottom are extremely forgiving. Rip currents can form on bigger days but are usually mild. The main hazard is the sheer length of beach making it easy to drift far from your starting point without realising. Lifeguards patrol the main section in summer. ## Parking and access Large car park (pay) at the north end with direct beach access. The car park can be expensive in summer. Alternatively, walk from Croyde (20 minutes) along the beach for free. Full facilities at the car park including toilets and a seasonal cafe. ## The crowd Surf schools dominate the main car park area. The beach is so long that you can always escape the crowd by walking. Even in peak summer, 10 minutes of walking south reveals empty peaks. Experienced surfers rarely choose Saunton over Croyde (next door) unless they want a mellow session. The atmosphere is relaxed and non-competitive. ## Local tips Saunton is the safe bet in north Devon. When Croyde is scarily heavy and Putsborough is too small, Saunton offers a middle ground with fun peaks and no consequence. The walk south towards Braunton Burrows (a UNESCO biosphere reserve) reveals genuinely empty surf with no one around. Bring water and snacks if walking far. The Saunton Sands Hotel (at the north end) has a good terrace for post-surf refreshment.