Widemouth Bay

## The spot Widemouth Bay is an exposed beach break just south of Bude on the north Cornish coast. It faces west into the Atlantic and catches swell consistently. The beach is wide with multiple peaks and a mix of sand and some reef influence. It offers a step up from Bude Summerleaze in terms of power and exposure while remaining accessible for intermediates. The drive in along the coast road reveals the surf before you even park. ## When it works Picks up any westerly Atlantic swell. An easterly offshore wind creates clean conditions. Works on all tides but produces different characteristics: low tide can be hollow, mid-tide more forgiving. Consistent from September through May. The 2-6ft range is ideal. Handles more size than Summerleaze due to the deeper bay. ## Where to sit The beach has multiple sections separated by rock outcrops. The northern section is most popular and has the easiest access. The southern section picks up slightly more swell and has reef influence creating more defined peaks. Walk along the beach and observe the sections before choosing. Each outcrop creates slightly different wave behaviour. ## Hazards Rocks and reef exposed at lower tides, particularly in the southern sections. Rip currents on bigger days. The mixed sand/reef bottom increases consequence on falls. Strong shore drift in bigger swells. Lifeguards patrol the main section in summer. ## Parking and access Pay car park at the north end (seasonal charges). A second smaller car park serves the southern section. Short walks to the beach from both. Surf hire, toilets, and a cafe at the main car park. Popular with families in summer. ## The crowd Busy on good days as it serves the Bude area alongside Summerleaze and Crooklets. The car park section is most crowded. Walking to the southern section usually rewards you with fewer people and often better waves. Surf schools use the inside whitewater. Weekends are busiest. ## Local tips Widemouth is the slightly more serious option compared to Bude Summerleaze. The southern section, beyond the main rock outcrops, produces the best waves and has fewer people. The reef influence creates more structure than the pure sand further north. If Widemouth is too big or messy, Bude Summerleaze offers a gentler alternative. The car park cafe does a solid breakfast burrito.