
Widemouth Bay
This beautiful stretch of North Cornwall’s coastline offers up a choice of beaches that all bring something slightly different to the party. Widemouth is a long, open bay (3 miles from Bude along the coast path) that’s also great for surfing, dog walking and rock pooling at low tide. A little further down the coast you’ll find the pretty shingle cove of Crackington Haven, which is flanked by tall cliffs — ideal for a spot of dramatic coast path walking.
Lifeguarded? May-Sept, plus Easter holidays, Oct half term and weekends in Sept and Oct
Dog-friendly? Dogs on leads between May-Sept

Black Rock
To the southern end of Widemouth Bay beach beyond the rocky outcrop, Black Rock is a wilder section of this stretch of coast, where big tides and some impressive reef breaks draw the surfing crowds to its waters throughout the year. There are also some incredible rockpools and caves along the beach, so bucket-and-net-wielding children will have hours of fun here.
Lifeguarded? Mid-May to mid-Sept
Dog-friendly? Yes, all year round

Crooklets Beach
Dog-friendly? Dogs on leads between mid May-Sept

Summerleaze
This is Bude’s main beach, just a quick walk from the buzzy town centre. Despite its popularity and proximity to town, it’s huge expanse of soft sand lined with rows of colourful beach huts to hire means that it never feels crowded, even at high tide. It’s a favourite spot for surfers and bodyboarders who come for the powerful waves. There’s surfboard hire and lessons on the beach, as well as windsurf, paddleboard and kayak rental, too. Swimmers can take a dip in the Bude Sea Pool for free (no booking required).
Lifeguarded? May-Sept, plus Easter holidays, Oct half term and weekends in Sept and Oct
Dog-friendly? Dogs on leads between May-Sept