Skip to Content

7 things to do in Croyde for families

7 things to do in Croyde for families

Hailed as the ‘surfing capital of North Devon’, Croyde naturally brings travellers far and wide for its coastal scenes. But, beyond Croyde Bay you’ll find tons of family-friendly activities for everyone to enjoy. Here, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top things to do in Croyde to help you plan your visit. 

Love Devon? Why not follow me on Instagram, join the Devon with Kids Facebook group and subscribe to my newsletter!

*This post contains affiliate links*

1. Croyde Beach

Croyde bay beach in North Devon

We’ll start our tour of Croyde at one of the biggest attractions – Croyde Beach.

Besides the incredible surf, there’s plenty of things to do in Croyde Bay. With souvenir shops, cafes, bars and eateries, you can spend a whole day here with the kids.

Plus, during the out of season months, the beach is dog friendly too, so bring along your furry friend to soak up the surf. 

Other beaches that are definitely worth a visit in the area are Putsborough Sands – a quieter beach that you’ll find off the beaten track, with stunning coastal views, public toilets and rock pools that are perfect for crabbing with your little one.

Or, try Woolacombe, just along the bay from Putsborough. This popular sandy beach is a great sunset spot for those romantic evenings on the beach.

And, don’t miss Saunton Sands. This three mile stretch of golden sandy beach is well worth a visit, having been a popular filming spot for some top films – see if you can remember which ones!

Find out more about all of these and more in our guide to North Devon beaches.

2. Baggy Point

Visitors walking around the Baggy Point Zealand near Croyde, North Devon, England

Baggy Point is one of those family walks that leaves everyone feeling truly rejuvenated afterwards. Its seascapes offer views over Lundy Island, Woolacombe Beach and Croyde Bay.

The wildlife you’ll see here gives you the opportunity to start a fun family challenge. See who can spot the most wildlife on the journey – from herring, gulls and razorbills often being spotted en route, through to sea creatures like grey seals that can often be seen playing in the waters below.

Then, when you’ve finished exploring, stop by the tea room for a cuppa and a cake – you’ll have earned it. 

3. Coasteering

Group of people coasteering on a rocky outcrop

While visiting Croyde Bay, one of the top things families with older kids should try is coasteering

This exhilarating activity allows you to explore Croyde’s spectacular coastline in the most hands-on way possible. Follow your guide along their planned route and be prepared to get wet!

You’ll navigate your course through a whole mix of activities – swimming, climbing, jumping – you name it.

This activity is one for the bigger kids – being available to children aged 11 and upwards. 

4. Surf lessons

Young woman surfing while kneeling on a surfboard

Of course, one of the top things to do in Croyde is surfing. Everyone’s got to start somewhere so, if you’re after surfing lessons you can get yourself booked in during your visit to Croyde Bay.

Whether you want to book private lessons or join their group classes, the local surf schools can get you riding a wave in no time. With class options suitable for all ages, the whole family can learn a new skill during your trip to Croyde Bay. 

5. Watermouth Castle

Exterior of Watermouth Castle in Ilfracombe, North Devon

For year-round family activities in Croyde, a trip to Watermouth Castle is a must. This real life castle-turned-theme-park was originally built in 1825.

Once inside you can explore the dungeons and see the underground fountain show. Plus, what theme park would be any good without fairground rides? Perfect for the mini thrill seekers of the family.

If one day isn’t enough, you can even live like royalty and book a stay in one of the castle’s overnight apartments. 

6. Boat trip to Lundy Island

Elevated view of the landing bay of the Lundy Island and Lundy South Lighthouse in the Bristol Channel in tranquil day

If your little ones are keen to set sail, take to the great open waters on a boat trip out to Lundy Island from nearby Ilfracombe.

The hour-long journey could have you spotting dolphins, seals, porpoise and birds during the 20 mile trip. Once you reach your destination, take in the extraordinary unspoilt landscapes and dramatic scenery that awaits its voyagers.

Then, upon your return back to the mainland, pass some time in Ilfracombe where there are plenty more family friendly activities for you to enjoy.

7. Tarka Trail

A wooden sign on the Southwest Coast Path / Tarka Trail public footpath and cycleway. Taken between Bideford and Barnstaple in North Devon England

Spanning 180 miles, the Tarka Trail is no mean feat. Don’t worry though, we wouldn’t expect you to cover all that ground in one day!

With plenty of starting points along the main route from Lynton, you can venture along the coast to Okehampton on the edge of Dartmoor, taking in the views that await. The route is suitable for two legs or two wheels, so if you’d rather have a leisurely bike ride, bring along your wheels.

Or, better still – you can rent bicycles when you get there. 

Things to do near Croyde

Tunnel through rock looking out onto the beach
Tunnels Beach

If you’re after even more family activities in Croyde’s surrounding areas, there’s more on offer in the nearby vicinity. 

Ilfracombe is right on your doorstep with plenty more outdoor and indoor attractions for families.

Barnstaple, just a short twenty minute drive from Croyde, will have you paying a visit to Heddon Valley, one of the many National Trust spots in Devon. 

Or, take a trip to Bideford where you can explore the town’s shops, eateries and famous port. And, if that’s still not enough, Westward Ho! (famously spelled with its exclamation point) has its very own tourist pulls with more stunning beaches, water sports and scenery for the family to enjoy. 

There are plenty of family activities in Croyde and the surrounding areas to keep visitors coming back year after year. Hopefully our list will help you narrow down all of the many things you can enjoy during your visit.

If you’re looking for even more things to do in Devon, we have plenty more destination guides for you to plan your trip to perfection. 

Where to stay in Croyde

Planning a family holiday in Croyde? Here’s some of the most family-friendly places to stay:

Croyde Bay Resort

One of the best places to stay in Croyde for families of all sizes is Croyde Bay Resort. It’s right on the beach and has a range of accommodation options from hotel rooms to budget-friendly self-catering cottages.

As well as a front row seat for the surf, the resort has places to eat, family entertainment, an indoor heated pool and a long lists of sports facilities. It’s even dog-friendly so your four-legged family member can come too.

Check prices and availability at Croyde Bay Resort.

Search for more family accommodation in Croyde.

2025 Days out in Devon ebook cover and pages

Download the 101 Days out in Devon with kids ebook

It’s FREE!

Grab your copy of this guide to family-friendly things to do across the county, from coast to coast, in the cities, on the moors and whatever the weather.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of these and make a purchase I may earn some commission. This does not affect the price you pay.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.