Bude Beaches: A Symphony of Sand, Surf, and Serenity
Bude, nestled on the rugged North Cornish coast, is a haven for beach lovers. Its golden sands, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs paint a picture of paradise, while the diverse coastline offers something for every sunseeker, surfer, and explorer. From family-friendly coves to wild, windswept expanses, Bude’s beaches are a symphony of sand, surf, and serenity, waiting to be discovered. With 3 of Cornwall’s 9 Blue Flag beaches, it is the best place to be!
The Main Stage: Summerleaze, Crooklets, and Widemouth Bay
Bude’s main act is a trio of beaches that steal the show. Summerleaze, with its wide expanse of golden sand, is a haven for families. Rock pools, a cafe, and even beach huts for hire make it a perfect day out. Crooklets, nestled next door, is a surfer’s paradise. Consistent waves and a relaxed atmosphere attract board-wielding enthusiasts from all corners. For those seeking a wilder experience, Widemouth Bay stretches out like a golden ribbon, backed by dramatic cliffs. Its size makes it ideal for long walks, building sandcastles, or simply soaking in the vastness of the ocean.
Beyond the Spotlight: Hidden Gems for the Discerning Sunseeker
Bude’s charm extends beyond its main attractions. Venture further and discover hidden coves like Northcott Mouth, a secluded haven perfect for picnicking and rockpooling. For surfers seeking solitude, Duckpool offers consistent waves and a sense of adventure. And for those who enjoy a touch of history, Black Rock Beach boasts a shipwreck and a dramatic rock archway, remnants of a bygone era.
Table of Contents
Bude Beaches
Summerleaze Beach – Blue Flag Awarded
Summerleaze Beach in Bude stands as a captivating jewel in the seaside town of Bude. This picturesque destination, with its expansive golden sands, tidal pool, and iconic barrel rock formation, offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and family-friendly charm. Summerleaze Beach isn’t just a stretch of sand; it’s a symphony of sun, surf, and serenity that orchestrates perfect days for families, surfers, and beach bums alike. Nestled in the heart of Bude, Cornwall, this blue flag award-winning beach with excellent water quality (1 of only 9 in Cornwall) boasts golden sands whispering against the turquoise Atlantic, while a natural breakwater acts as a guardian, creating a calm haven for sunseekers and splashers.
The sheltered bay, guarded by the breakwater, creates a tranquil playground for little ones. Paddle in the shallows, chase retreating waves, or let them discover the hidden treasures of rock pools teeming with life. During the summer months and all school holidays the beach has lifeguard cover every single day (click here for schedule).
Excellent local surf schools are available for those looking to catch some waves. Alternatively, you might want to explore kayaking or try your hand at sea fishing. For a more exhilarating experience, consider the thrills of climbing or coasteering, all guided by friendly and experienced professionals.
One of the iconic features of Summerleaze is the Bude Sea Pool, a unique tidal pool nestled within the rocks on the beach. This semi-natural pool is a haven for swimmers of all ages, offering a safe and refreshing alternative to the open sea. Its construction dates back to the 1930s, and its popularity has endured, making it a beloved attraction for generations.
One of the best things about Summerleaze beach is the proximity to town centre and 2 Canalside Holiday apartment. Life’s a Beach is a cafe/restaurant overlooking the beach with steps directly from the beach. As well as eating in you can get food and drink to eat on the beach if you fancy an an alternative to picnic or BBQ. There’s also a big car park which is in the process of having EV chargers installed.
Barrel Rock, a striking formation perched at the edge of the beach, adds to the distinctive charm of Summerleaze. This geological wonder has become a symbol of Bude and is often featured in photographs capturing the beauty of the North Cornwall coastline.
Finally beach huts are available to hire all year round – click here.
Crooklets Beach – Blue Flag Awarded
While Crooklets Beach might greet you with a few pebbles at high tide, its heart is pure gold. As the tide retreats, a vast expanse of golden sand unfolds, perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, and letting your imagination run wild. And for the curious explorers, the retreating tide reveals a mesmerizing world of rock pools teeming with life – a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
But Crooklets’ accolades go beyond its beauty. Like Summerleze Beach, Crooklets Beach proudly holds a prestigious Blue Flag award, a testament to its commitment to cleanliness, safety, and environmental excellence. And the best part? It’s seamlessly connected to its neighbor, Summerleaze Beach. At low tide, a leisurely stroll across the sandy expanse grants you access to the renowned Bude Sea Pool, a natural rock pool perfect for a refreshing dip.
Crooklets Beach is a magnet for all kinds of beach lovers. Surfers flock to its consistent waves, families bask in its safe and clean environment, and beach enthusiasts revel in its picturesque surroundings. However, it’s worth noting that a seasonal dog ban comes into play, which can either attract or deter visitors depending on your furry friend’s presence.
But for those seeking adventure, Crooklets is more than just a beach; it’s a launchpad for exploration. Several activity companies call this beach home, offering a range of outdoor pursuits and water sports to satisfy your inner thrill-seeker. Whether you’re yearning to conquer the waves on a surfboard or dive into the depths with a snorkel, Crooklets has something for everyone.
Both Crooklets Cafe and Rosies at at the top of the beach for snacks, milkshakes, full meals and alcholic drinks. Both places regularly have music during the summer.
Like Summerleaze Beach, Crooklets beach has excellent bathing water and a large car park. 6 EV charging stations are also available. The beach is also lifeguarded during the main holiday dates (schedule here) and beach huts available to hire.
Beaches Near Bude
Widemouth Bay – Blue Flag Awarded – EX23 0AW
Widemouth Bay, situated a few miles south of Bude, Cornwall, is not merely a beach; it is an expansive stretch of coastline that whispers stories of untamed beauty, invigorating surf, and peaceful coves. This Blue Flag-awarded haven caters to a diverse range of beach enthusiasts, from sun-seeking families to adrenaline-fueled surfers and those yearning for a tranquil exploration.
In the vastness of Widemouth Bay, picture sinking your toes into the soft, golden sand stretching over two miles, framed by dramatic cliffs and endless horizons—a playground for sandcastle building, leisurely walks, and contemplation of the ocean’s vastness.
Widemouth Bay reveals two distinct personalities. At the southern end, Black Rock Beach exudes rugged charm, ideal for rockpooling and year-round dog walking. Head north to Trelawny Beach, where calm waters and consistent waves create an ideal environment for families and novice surfers.
Beyond being a surfer’s paradise, Widemouth Bay invites exploration of hidden coves at the base of cliffs, teeming with rock pools and marine life. A scenic walk along the South West Coast Path offers breathtaking coastal views, while relaxation on the sand unveils fiery hues painting the cliffs during sunset.
For families, Widemouth Bay is a haven with lifeguard patrols ensuring safety during peak seasons (schedule here). Children can enjoy splashing in the shallows, building sandcastles, and exploring rock pools. The beach cafe provides refreshments, perfect for refueling after a day of adventures.
Again there is a big car park but no EV charging and you can walk to Widemouth from Bude along the breathtaking coastal page (~3 miles).
Northcott Mouth Beach – EX23 9ED
This hidden gem offers a dramatic coastline with a rocky cove that transforms into a sandy haven at low tide. Imagine towering cliffs watching over you as you explore the beach’s secrets.
Northcott Mouth is a paradise for curious little ones. The rock pools come alive at low tide, teeming with sea creatures just waiting to be discovered. It’s a chance to reconnect with nature and ignite a sense of wonder in your kids. And if you’re a surfer looking to catch some waves, the offshore reefs create perfect conditions for riding the tide (not for beginners however).
While Northcott Mouth boasts stunning beauty, keep in mind it’s a remote beach with minimal amenities. The National Trust car park provides a convenient spot to leave your car, but the path down to the beach is a bit steep, so be prepared for a short walk. You don’t actually have to drive though…it’s actually really easy to walk from Bude with stunning views out from the cliff top. To get there, go to Crooklets Beach and facing the see you will see a path to the right going over the cliff. Simply follow this for 20 mins and you’ll each Northcott.
The good news is during the summer months (mid July to Septermber), lifeguards keep a watchful eye on the beach, offering peace of mind for families. Sip and Sea is also a couple of minutes from the beach. From March to October it sells amazing cakes, coffee, cream teas and local craft beer from a horsebox in a gorgeous little garden with a stream running through it. They also often have music on the weekend.
Northcott Mouth Beach is more than just a place to soak up the sun. It’s a chance to delve into history. The nearby cliffs hold Bronze Age burial chambers, whispering tales of the past. And for shipwreck enthusiasts, the remains of the SS Belem, a steamship that ran aground in 1917, can be seen at low tide, adding an air of mystery to the beach.
So, if you’re looking for a beach experience that goes beyond the ordinary, pack your sense of adventure and head to Northcott Mouth. This secluded beauty offers a perfect blend of scenic landscapes, rock pool discoveries, and historical intrigue. Just remember to come prepared for the limited amenities and embrace the natural charm of this hidden gem.
Where to stay
Finally, a little mention of our holiday accomodation. 2 Canalside is a luxury 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom holiday accomodation moments from Summerleaze Beach in Bude. With private parking (and EV charger), private patio garden overlooking Bude’s gorgeous canal and 150mb fibre broadband we think it’s the perfect location for your holiday. For availability and real-time booking with just 20% deposit, click here.