If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing the rugged coastlines, golden beaches, and wild Atlantic waves, there’s no better way to do it than by hiring a campervan from Wolverhampton and hitting the road to Devon. Devon, with its diverse beaches, charming seaside towns, and world-class surfing spots, is an adventure-lover’s paradise. Traveling in a campervan offers freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to get up close and personal with nature while ensuring that you’re never far from your next wave.
In this blog, we’ll take you on an exhilarating journey through Devon’s top surfing spots, the benefits of hiring a campervan from Wolverhampton, essential tips for the trip, and a few insider recommendations to make your surfing holiday unforgettable.
Why Devon for Surfing?
Devon is one of the most cherished coastal regions in the UK for surfers. The county offers two coastlines, each with its own unique appeal. To the north, you have the raw power of the Atlantic Ocean bringing in consistent swells, while the south coast, although more sheltered, offers picturesque beaches with calm bays ideal for beginners and longboarders.
North Devon is particularly famous for its surf scene, especially around Croyde, Woolacombe, and Saunton Sands. These locations have hosted numerous surfing competitions and are frequented by surf enthusiasts from all over Europe.
South Devon has quieter beaches with gentle waves, making it the perfect spot for those looking to learn how to surf or for anyone who enjoys more relaxed waters. The beautiful beaches, like Bantham and Bigbury, are perfect for families and beginners alike.
Why Hire a Campervan from Wolverhampton?
When it comes to surfing, there’s a natural synergy with campervan life. Being able to camp near the beach means you’ll have early access to the waves before the crowds arrive, and you can watch the sunset over the water, all while enjoying the comfort of your mobile home. Here are a few reasons why hiring a campervan from Wolverhampton is the best way to enjoy Devon’s surf scene:
- Freedom to Roam: With a campervan, you’re not tied down to one location. You can chase the best waves along the coast, moving from one beach to the next depending on the surf conditions. If the swell changes, you can easily pack up and head to the next beach without the hassle of booking new accommodation.
- On-the-Go Comfort: A campervan offers you the luxury of having all your essentials with you. After a day in the surf, you can change out of your wetsuit in privacy, cook a meal in the van, and relax in your own cozy space. No more sandy car seats or cramped changing facilities!
- Cost-Effective: Hiring a campervan can be an economical option compared to staying in hotels or rented cottages, especially in high season when accommodation prices skyrocket. Plus, you’ll save on meals since you can cook your own food using the van’s kitchen.
- Closer to Nature: The beauty of campervan life is that it allows you to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Waking up to the sound of waves and the salty sea breeze is a refreshing way to start your day. You’ll also have the flexibility to stay in scenic spots, often with stunning coastal views.
Top Surf Spots in Devon
Let’s dive into the must-visit surfing spots in Devon from Wolverhampton, each offering unique experiences for all levels of surfers. We’ll cover both the popular beaches on the north coast and the hidden gems on the south coast.
1. Croyde Bay
Best for: Intermediate to advanced surfers
Wave type: Fast and powerful beach break
Facilities: Parking, surf schools, cafes, toilets
Croyde is undoubtedly one of the best-known surf beaches in Devon, renowned for its powerful and hollow waves, making it ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers. When the conditions are right, Croyde delivers fast, barrelling waves that challenge even seasoned surfers.
The beach is flanked by sand dunes and is relatively small, which can make it feel crowded on good days, but the quality of the waves makes up for it. Croyde village is charming, with a few pubs and surf shops, offering plenty of character for when you need a break from the water.
2. Woolacombe Beach
Best for: All levels
Wave type: Consistent, mellow beach break
Facilities: Parking, surf hire, cafes, toilets
A little further north from Croyde, you’ll find Woolacombe Beach, a 3-mile stretch of golden sand that caters to all levels of surfers. The waves here are generally mellower than those at Croyde, making it an excellent spot for beginners or longboarders looking for slower, more cruisey rides.
Because of its size, Woolacombe never feels overly crowded, even on busy summer days. There are plenty of surf schools and board hire options available, and the beach is backed by a lively town full of cafes, restaurants, and shops.
3. Saunton Sands
Best for: Longboarders and beginners
Wave type: Long, peeling waves
Facilities: Parking, surf hire, toilets, cafes
Saunton Sands is a dream come true for longboarders. The waves here are slow, long, and forgiving, providing the perfect conditions for those wanting to work on their style and technique. It’s also a fantastic beach for beginners thanks to the gentle waves and lack of strong rips.
This wide, open beach stretches for miles, giving everyone ample room to spread out. After a session in the water, you can grab a bite at the beachside café or explore the nearby Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with sand dunes, wildlife, and walking trails.
4. Bantham Beach
Best for: Beginners and intermediate surfers
Wave type: Beach break with occasional sandbars
Facilities: Parking, surf school, café, toilets
Bantham Beach, located on the south coast, is a picturesque, family-friendly surf spot with stunning views of Burgh Island. The beach break here produces consistent waves, making it a fantastic option for both beginners and intermediate surfers. At low tide, the waves tend to be smaller, making it ideal for learners, while mid-tide can provide faster, punchier waves for those seeking more of a challenge.
Bantham is less commercialized than some of the northern beaches, preserving its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The nearby village of Bantham is tiny but charming, with a small café and surf school.
5. Bigbury-on-Sea
Best for: Beginners and families
Wave type: Gentle beach break
Facilities: Parking, surf hire, café, toilets
If you’re looking for a relaxing surfing experience with stunning coastal scenery, head to Bigbury-on-Sea. This beach is located just across the water from Bantham and is perfect for families and beginners. The waves here are gentle and ideal for those who are new to surfing or anyone looking for a more laid-back session in the water.
Bigbury is also famous for its tidal island, Burgh Island, which can be reached on foot when the tide is low, or via the quirky sea tractor when the tide is in. The iconic art-deco hotel on the island adds a touch of elegance to this quiet corner of Devon.
Practical Tips for Your Campervan hire from Wolverhampton Surfing Adventure
Now that you’ve got an idea of where to go, here are some essential tips to make your campervan surfing trip in Devon run smoothly:
1. Choose the Right Campervan from hire Wolverhampton.
Before you start your adventure from Wolverhampton, make sure you choose the right type of campervan for your needs. Consider the number of people traveling, the length of your trip, and your budget.
2. Plan Your Route and Check the Swell
While campervan travel is all about flexibility, it’s still a good idea to have a rough route planned out. Keep an eye on surf forecasts, as the swell conditions in Devon can change quickly. Websites like Magicseaweed or Surfline provide reliable surf reports for the area.
If the conditions are flat on one coast, you can always head to the other. For example, if the Atlantic is unusually calm, the south coast might still offer surfable waves.
3. Respect the Local Environment
As with any outdoor adventure, it’s important to respect the natural environment. Stick to designated camping areas and avoid wild camping in places where it’s not allowed. Devon’s beaches are beautiful, so help keep them that way by cleaning up after yourself and disposing of waste responsibly.
4. Check Parking and Campsite Availability
While Devon is campervan-friendly, some of the smaller beach car parks may have restrictions on campervans, especially during the peak summer months. It’s a good idea to research parking and camping facilities before you arrive. Many of the popular beaches, such as Croyde and Saunton Sands, offer designated campervan parking spots.
5. Explore the Local Area
While surfing will likely be your main focus, don’t forget to explore Devon’s stunning countryside, charming villages, and coastal walks. Whether it’s hiking along the South West Coast Path, exploring Dartmoor National Park, or visiting the historic fishing village of Clovelly, there’s plenty to see and do when you need a break from the waves.
Conclusion
Hiring a campervan from Wolverhampton to explore the beaches of Devon and surf the waves is a truly unique and liberating experience. The combination of world-class surf spots, breathtaking coastal views, and the flexibility that campervan life offers makes for an unforgettable trip. Whether you’re chasing the perfect wave at Croyde Bay or enjoying a relaxing session at Bigbury-on-Sea, the beaches of Devon cater to all levels of surfers and provide the perfect backdrop for a coastal adventure.
With the freedom to roam and your home on wheels always nearby, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in Devon’s vibrant surf culture, stunning landscapes, and the thrill of riding the waves. So, grab your wetsuit, pack your surfboard, and hit the road for the ultimate campervan surfing holiday in Devon!
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