Surf’s up on the SW660! Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, there are lots of opportunities to ride the waves along the way. Here are a few top suggestions to surf along the SW660 route…
Surf in North Devon
This stretch of coast is officially world-class. In March 2022, North Devon was formally recognised as the 12th World Surfing Reserve, joining iconic locations such as Santa Cruz in California and Australia’s Gold Coast. A high density of outstanding surf and variety of waves for all abilities makes this part of the SW660 route a must-visit.
Adam Hall (pic credit: Rachael Hall)
North Devon Surfing Reserve
Local surfer Adam Hall says it’s hard to beat – and he would know. Adam was involved with putting together the application for North Devon to become a World Surfing Reserve and now helps the community-led organisation protect local breaks and their surf ecosystems. So where does he surf?
Saunton Sands beach is a surfers’ paradise (pic credit: Gordon Dryburgh)
‘In general terms, Saunton Sands (route 11) is a really good choice for nice, easy, mellow waves, if it’s not too windy. It’s a good start.
Croyde Beach is for experienced surfers (pic credit: N and M Photography)
‘Croyde (route 11) is for more experienced surfers who know what they’re doing. It’s a bit like ski runs, you’ve got you blacks, your blues, your greens. Croyde would aways be a black run. It’s good for more experienced or performance surfers because it’s generally bigger, faster and more powerful.
‘If it’s windy, you can go and hide away a bit at Putsborough (route 11). It’s a beautiful spot because you’ve got the Baggy Point headland which takes the sting out of the wind and swell.’
Woolacombe has everything a surfer needs (pic credit: Gordon Dryburgh)
Adam says Woolacombe is well set-up. ‘It’s probably the biggest beach town in North Devon so there are loads of facilities.’ he says. ‘It’s a good all-rounder for beginners and intermediates.’
Croyde and Woolacombe are lifeguarded during the warmer season.
WHERE TO STAY
The Collective at Woolsery is a seriously stylish, comfortable base. Choose from a selection of four luxurious rooms and suites above the village shop.
The Carlton Hotel in Ilfracombe is well-positioned to access all of that world-class surf. A friendly team and great food make this a year-round popular choice.
Surf in Cornwall
There are so many places to surf in Cornwall. That’s why surfer Martin Dorey moved to the county 30 years ago. The writer and environmental activist is the founder of The 2 Minute Foundation, a charity that encourages people to pick up beach litter. Martin has also written a series of books about travelling in his campervan. Martin reckons his home surf around Bude (route 10) takes some beating.
‘Bude is easy because it’s got two great beaches – Crookletsand Summerleze. Grab a coffee at Wild Spirits Wellness Café, run by a surfer and a yoga teacher. And the Electric Bakery is a really great place to get breakfast.
‘Back down the coast in Cornwall, you’ve got Newquay (route 9), of course, which is world famous. Watergate Bay is great for beginners, and then you’ve got Great Western and Fistral which are really popular. There are plenty of groovy cafes in and around town. Just around the corner from the Temple of Fringe Surf Shop is Kook, a juice bar run by a husband-and-wife team.
‘Going down the coast, you’ve got Perranporth (route 9), which is a huge beach with a great pub and live music bar, called The Watering Hole. They have loads of high-profile gigs there in the summer.’
Farther around is Whitsand Bay (route 6), which stretches from Rame Head to Portwrinkle. Be aware, however, that access to Whitsand is via steep cliff paths from the car parks at either end.
Martin Dorey’s latest book, Take the Slow Road: England and Wales, is about inspirational journeys around England and Wales by camper van and motorhome, including the South West 660.
WHERE TO STAY
Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa puts you right in the centre of the action. Between April and October, they offer two-night surf and stay packages, which includes a surf lesson.
Just a few sandy steps from Bude’s Crooklets Beach is Tommy Jacks. The tastefully done hotel rooms and apartments here are bright and spacious. Secure surfboard storage and a post-surf shower room are also available.
Surf in Dorset
Dorset might not have the deeply ingrained surf culture of Cornwall and North Devon, but it’s certainly making some waves, if you time it right. The county’s natural offshore reef means that the swell can form well. It’s a good place to dip your toe in if you’re a beginner.
Kimmeridge Bay (route 1) has consistent surf in the winter months and works best in offshore winds from the north. Note: the beach shares a border with a military firing range, so look out for the red flag.
Good times and good waves roll into Bowleaze Cove (route 1)when conditions are right.
Charmouth Beach (route 2) usually known for its fossil-rich cliffs and sandy shores, also attracts surfers throughout the year.
WHERE TO STAY
The Scott Arms is a pub with rooms and views over the Purbeck countryside. B&B accommodation includes double rooms. Breakfast includes locally sourced ingredients.
Lyme Regis is a good base for this stretch of coast. The Rock Point Inn is right by the town’s famous harbour. Settle into a stylish room overlooking the quayside.
TOP TIPS:
During the winter months, there are no lifeguards. This time of year is best left to the people who have surfed before and have the right kit for the cold water.
Scour the conditions. Check the local webcams before you figure out where you’re going to go.
Wearing a good-quality wetsuit is essential to keep warm and comfortable. Most surf schools provide them as part of their packages.
Understanding surf etiquette is crucial, especially in crowded lineups.
Beginners should follow basic rules, such as not dropping in on someone else’s wave and avoid collisions.
Understand rip currents – one of the biggest hazards for surfers and swimmers alike. If caught out, don’t panic. Swim parallel to the shore until you escape the current, then paddle back to safety.
