A Day Trip to Woolacombe Beach
Woolacombe, North Devon.
For travellers seeking a peaceful Exmoor base with access to North Devon’s most iconic beach, Lynton & Lynmouth offers the perfect balance: quiet nights, excellent local food, and just under an hour’s scenic drive to the golden sweep of Woolacombe Beach.
Why Stay in Lynton & Lynmouth?
Nestled where Exmoor meets the sea, Lynton & Lynmouth is ideal for those who want to step away from crowds without missing out on classic Devon experiences. After a morning exploring cliff paths, woodlands, or the Valley of Rocks, you can reach Woolacombe Beach in about 50 minutes by car — just right for a full beach day without the need to stay in a busy resort town.
Woolacombe Beach: What to Expect
Regularly ranked among the UK’s top beaches, Woolacombe offers three miles of golden sand, powerful surf, and a buzzing holiday atmosphere.
Great for surfing
paddleboarding, bodyboarding or just swimming.
Lifeguard-patrolled
in season, ideal for families
Beachfront cafés, pubs, and gear hire
located conveniently in the village
Tide-friendly terrain
with rock pools and sand dunes to explore
Parking available
at multiple access points, including The Esplanade and Marine Drive
Woolacombe is well-equipped for a full day out, but returning to Lynton & Lynmouth in the evening gives you a change of pace — quieter lanes, cliff-top sunsets, and some of North Devon’s most memorable dining spots.
After the Beach: Eat and Unwind in Lynton & Lynmouth
Once you’ve shaken off the sand, you’ll be welcomed back by homemade meals, Devon ales, and sea views without the hustle.
The Oak Room offers tasty Spanish-inspired small plates and a relaxed vibe
Esplanade Fish Bar delicious fish and chips on the harbour wall in Lynmouth
North Coast Café is great for cream teas or an exceptional coffee
Whether you’re staying in a cliffside hotel, a riverside B&B, or a cosy self-catering cottage, Lynton & Lynmouth gives you comfort and calm after a day in the surf.
Make the Most of North Devon
By basing your holiday in Lynton & Lynmouth, you’re perfectly positioned to enjoy both the wilder side of Exmoor and the buzz of North Devon’s surf beaches, including Woolacombe, Putsborough Sands, and nearby Croyde.