north devon

[mantaray]

hi guys, I am looking to start surfing in north devon, I am able to surf 3/4 ft waves and turn across the waves and catch them every time, no cutbacks or big waves yet though. I am probably considered a beginner so I was wondering where in north devon is a good spot for me to advance? I learned on a 7'8 foamie, and will be planning on renting a 7'2 when i head there.

If anyone knows of a good spot with surf shops and cheap or free parking at the beach please let me know! It's a 3 hour drive for me so would like to do some research before heading down.

Also I am wondering how these waves will change as it goes from now to winter? As I plan on surfing north devon every week.

I learned to surf in lanzarote a month ago, where the waves were very frequent (every 5 sec?) and the water between waves was very bumpy, also the time between sets was very short (6-10 sec). Was very hard to tell even when there was a break between sets because of how bumpy the water was after each wave - is this what it is like surfing in the uk too? I see in the movies nice waves (not necessarially huge ones) with just flat water after them before the next wave, I would LOVE to surf in conditions like that.


thanks for any advice and sorry if theres loads of threads on north devon

[mantaray]

any replies would be awesome, can't make the trip until I get this info

[drowningbitbybit]

North devon has hundreds of spots. Anywhere where there are surf shops and places to hire a board will be crowded and the parking definitely wont be free

A standard spot to head to is croyde - it has several beaches that point in various directions (so you get a choice depending on wind and swell direction) and varying characteristics.
For a beginner on a rented mini0mal, Saunton will be best. Mellow easy beach-break with plenty of room.

Bude is another option.

All these spots will be hidesouly crowded in summer, but unless you're prepared to search out some lesser known spots, thats just the way it is in Devon.

[mantaray]

ok thanks