Croyde is one of the UK’s best surf beaches — punchy fast hollow waves and mellow long walls on different tides. Here’s a simple guide for when to surf, what conditions help, where to book lessons, and how to stay safe. Whether you’re new to surfing or planning a weekend strike mission start here.
Conditions: What makes Croyde good
Swell
The ideal swell size depends on your level. Beginners 1-2ft, Intermediate 1-3ft, Advanced 3-8ft. Croyde will max out at anything over 8ft
Wind
The ideal wind for all levels will be a light wind from the east. South East and North East winds will still be good. Directly west is onshore
tide
The ideal tide depends on your ability. Mid-high tide is more mellower and beginner friendly. Low tide the wave will change to a steep hollow unforgiving wave.
Lessons & Hire
If you’re new to Croyde or surfing, a lesson is the easiest way to get in safely and progress faster. There are multiple surf schools in Croyde, Surfing Croyde Bay is the one we would recommend! Here’s why:
- 6:1 Customer to instructor ratio. This correlates to smaller group sizes meaning everyone gets more instruction
- Not just a surf school! ‘SCB’ also has a cafe and sauna on site
- Not just for beginners! National surfing champions have regular training sessions as well as taking there own lessons here.
Where else to surf?
Putsborough
- Always smaller than Croyde
- Will still be offshore in a southerly wind
Saunton
- Mellow longer rides, great for longboards and your first green waves.
- Will be similar size to Croyde
- Will be sheltered by a northerly wind
Woolacombe
- Similar size to Croyde
- Mellower than Croyde but heavier than Putsborough
Saftey & beach info
- Lifeguard service run from Easter holidays until October half-term from 10am – 6pm
- Beach parking: read out Croyde beach parking page for all the info
- Beach safety tips: Read the RNLI’s safety tips
Where to stay?
We at Holidays in Croyde would love to welcome you to stay with us. Whether you are heading to Croyde with a group of friends or you’re a family looking for the perfect holiday accommodation, we have a selection of self-catering cottages to suit everyone! We look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful part of the world! Click to view our properties
Light wind from the East
If the lifeguards aren’t at the beach we would recommend you to not go surfing due to the rips
Surfing Croyde Bay https://surfingcroydebay.co.uk/croyde-surf-school/