Like so many others, we’ve been coming to Croyde in North Devon for years. We’ve experienced it all—first as carefree twentysomethings, then as parents of little kids, and now as part of a group of families with slightly older children. As you’ve probably gathered from this blog, we’re big fans of camping, and Croyde has always been one of our top spots for camping, surfing, and seaside adventures.
With its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and laid-back surf village vibe, it’s a place that really has something for everyone. Our kids adore it, and we always stay in the same spot, following a familiar little routine of favourite things to do. Not many places tempt us back again and again—especially with the same activities—but there’s just something magical about this North Devon gem.
So, here’s our list of the 10 things we ALWAYS do whenever we visit Croyde.
1. Walk the Coast Path to Woolacombe
We absolutely love walking the South West Coast Path from Croyde to nearby Woolacombe. The walk itself is pretty gentle, but the views? Absolutely breathtaking. Heading out to Baggy Point, you’ll find some dramatic, sheer cliffs—stunning but high! Hold tightly onto little hands, or you can take the alternative route over the hill.
This walk works for all fitness levels and is perfect for soaking up those panoramic North Devon coastline views. We usually pause for a snack overlooking Putsborough Beach, watching surfers ride the waves below. From there, you can take either the back route or the beach route to Woolacombe—both are gorgeous.
We have a soft spot for the back route because it lets us stop at The Porthole for an incredible scotch egg (and maybe a little can of fizz!). Then it’s pasties and ice cream in Woolacombe before heading back—though, if your legs are protesting, a taxi is always an option!
For some reason our kids never complain on this walk so it’s actually a pleasure and one we will be doing for years to come, no doubt.
2. Treat Yourself to Ice Cream in the Village
When in Devon, right?! Croyde village is packed with ice cream parlours serving every flavour under the sun. It’s one of those holiday “must-dos” (okay, maybe a little over-the-top), but after a day of surfing, bodyboarding, or just flinging yourself into the waves, a little sweet treat feels like a reward from the universe. And yes, sometimes we go rogue and add a dollop of clotted cream on top. Totally unnecessary, completely delicious, and zero regrets.
3. Surf, Bodyboard or just jump waves at Croyde Bay
Croyde Bay is famous for its waves—and trust us, they do not disappoint! Megan is all about surfing, Charlotte loves bodyboarding, and Reuben just can’t get enough of jumping the waves, so there’s something for everyone. The waves are an absolute blast and a fun (and super cheap!) way to spend a day. Just don’t forget the beach snacks, buckets and spades, and a trusty windbreak—it can get pretty gusty out there, and a good windbreak makes all the difference for a long, happy beach day.
On our most recent trip, the beach was closed a couple of times because of rough sea conditions. It’s always amazing to watch the waves when they’re particularly dramatic—but remember, safety first. Never venture in when it’s not advised, no matter how tempting those perfect waves look!
4. Feast on Fresh Pasties
A classic Devon treat! I actually think I’ve become more committed to regular pasty lunches over the years. I absolutely love pasties and a little break to Devon is the perfect excuse to eat lots of them! My personal favourite is the vegan steak pasty from The Hub in Croyde village. There are quite a few vegan options these days, which is great for us!
5. Visit The Hideout Café
I think that Croyde has changed quite a bit over the last few years and whilst some may complain about the development of this little Devon hideaway, I think it’s come with some great additions, one of which is the Hideout. You get to the Hideout through the Hub pasty shop. I love the cocktails, and the fact I can get a bucket!! the Pornstar Martini and Mai tai are my favourites. We usually tuck into pasties, share a bucket or two, then wander back to camp for cream tea and stargazing. Wonderful.
6. Enjoy a Traditional Cream Tea
If there’s one thing you have to tick off your North Devon list, it’s a cream tea in Croyde. After a morning of waves, walks, or sand between your toes, nothing hits the spot quite like a scone (scone like own or scone like gone?) loaded up with clotted cream and jam. We usually buy our own from the village to eat outside the tent in the sunshine (hopefully). Just be warned: you’ll have to pick a side in the age-old debate—cream first or jam first? (Devon says cream first, but we’ll let you decide…).
7. Explore Baggy Point
If you’re not up for trekking all the way to Woolacombe but still want a dose of North Devon’s incredible coastal views, Baggy Point is the perfect spot. I absolutely love wandering its trails—they’re just right whether you’re a serious hiker or fancy a gentle stroll. Keep your eyes peeled for seals bobbing in the waves or seabirds swooping overhead, and don’t forget your camera—the endless stretch of sparkling ocean is impossible not to photograph.
It’s also a brilliant place to pause for a picnic, take a deep breath of that fresh, salty sea air, and just soak it all in. Every time I visit, I’m reminded how stunning the British coastline is. And I love that Baggy Point has been cared for by the National Trust since 1939—knowing it’s protected for generations to come.
8. Rock-pooling
We first got into rockpooling in Croyde when the kids were little, mostly as a backup plan for those days when the sun was more reluctant to come out. Even now, they still get so excited spotting crabs, tiny fish, and all sorts of little creatures in the rock pools when the tide goes out. The best thing about Croyde is that the tide retreats so far that there are hours of entertainment right there for free!.
It’s not just fun—it’s also a brilliant way for kids (and adults!) to learn about the sea and the animals that live there. And of course, the golden rule: leave everything where you find it. Watching the kids marvel at creatures in their natural habitat is far more rewarding than bringing them home in a bucket!
9. Try Dune Surfing
My kids love a dune surf and the sand dunes behind Croyde Bay provide an excellent dune surfing run! Bring a bodyboard or even a piece of cardboard to slide down the dunes.
10. Stargaze from Your Tent
One of the best things about camping in Croyde has to be the stargazing. With no city lights around, the night sky feels bigger, brighter, and just a little bit magical. It always makes me stop and think how beautiful (and how humbling!) it all is—something we often forget when we’re wrapped up in everyday life.
And honestly? Some of my favourite starry moments have happened after those classic middle-of-the-night camping loo trips. You step outside, bleary-eyed, and suddenly you’re wide awake, standing under a sky full of stars with only the sound of the waves in the background. It’s the kind of simple magic that makes camping here so special.
Final thoughts
Croyde has this incredible ability to feel familiar and new at the same time. No matter how many times we visit, there’s always something to discover. For all the travelling we do, our kids love this place and keep wanting to come back again and again. It’s a place that lets you slow down, enjoy simple pleasures, and make memories that stick—whether you’re a couple, a group of friends, or a family like ours. For us, it’s more than just a holiday spot; it’s a little tradition, a go-to escape where the sea, sand, and sunsets never fail to remind us why we keep coming back. Croyde isn’t just somewhere you visit—it’s somewhere you return to, again and again.
Kitchen Family Travels 