The Ilfracombe, Combe Martin & Berrynarbor area offers beach-goers a little bit of everything. Every beach, cove and inlet is unique in character, so we've put together a quick guide to help you decide which one is for you.
Tunnel Beach, Ilfracombe
A network of hand carved tunnels leading to unique sheltered beaches and a tidal Victorian bathing pool. Open Easter to October. There is a small entrance fee, but you can come and go all day as you please.
Ilfracombe Harbour
Ilfracombe's charming natural harbour and elegant Victorian architecture make the town as popular today as it has been since the 1830's. It is the largest harbour on the North Devon coast and has been in existence as a port for several centuries. Many pleasure boat trips are on offer from the pier with various destinations such as Lundy Island.
Wildersmouth Beach & Capstone Point
A small sheltered sand and shingle bay surrounded by rocks and set close to the centre of Ilfracombe, near the Landmark Theatre. The promenade alongside offers a choice of traditional seaside entertainment, including amusement centres, crazy golf, toy trains and the occasional market. Capstone Hill sits to the right of the beach, adding an extra dimension with its sheer rock and grassy sides. There is parking nearby, and plenty of shops, pubs and cafés.
Hele Bay Beach, Hele
A small sandy cove set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. At very low tide it is possible to clamber around the left hand side of the beach to 'Fishing Rock' and 'Blythes Cove' but care must be taken not to be cut off by rising tides. There is a car park, a few shops, a café and a couple of pubs within walking distance. Hele is adjacent to Hillsborough Nature Reserve.
Watermouth Harbour, Berrynarbor
Opposite Watermouth Castle is a beautiful and unspoilt natural drying harbour, offering peace and tfranquillity amongst the turmoil of modern life and marinas, great for any boating enthusiasts. The waters are warm, well sheltered and the scenery is stunning, making mooring there a delight.
Combe Martin Beach, Combe Martin
A large area of sand set in a sheltered valley, marking the western edge of the Exmoor National Park. This unspoilt beach is mainly shingle at the top, with plenty of sand at low tide. There are natural rock pools providing endless interest for beach combers. Little and Great Hangman, the two hills overlooking the beach, offer a fabulous backdrop to the beach and great walks. There is convenient parking, shops, pubs and cafés.
Lee Bay, Lee
The most secluded of all the beaches in the area, at low tide Lee Bay is a good mix of sand, single, rocks and trickling streams. Watermouth Bay Hotel, immediately, behind the beach provides food, snacks and drinks on a veranda overlooking the beach.