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The sea. If the waves at Woolacombe are a bit rough for the kids, head around the corner to smaller Barricane, which is more sheltered. Alternatively, if the waves are too blown out to surf on, a quick wander over to Coombesgate (near Mortehoe end) or over to Puttsborough (nearer Croyde) may each provide results. Lifeguards are only on Woolacombe main beach though.
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In a car. Hitching sometimes works, but don't hinge your hopes on it. Buses are infrequent at the best of times.
*You can actually walk from Woolacombe to Croyde via the coast path. Quite a decent walk too, but take some drinks and a hat.
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The quintessential British seaside resort, albeit with white sand, turquoise blue sea and exotic marine life. The likes of seals, porpoises, dolphins and the odd basking shark have been known to make the odd appearance, particularly at Baggy Point and Morte point.
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Go to the beach, it gets much quieter past Mill Rock, although dogs are allowed past this point.
*Stunning scenery and countryside walks, with breath taking views.
*Woolacombe has pretty decent surf with the right conditions (i.e Atlantic well and an on shore wind). Although not quite as demanding as Croyde - the waves in Woolacombe are not quite as fast or hollow as Croyde - netherless there is plenty of space, plenty of options, and plenty of facilities (including lifeguards in the summer), and if you are a novice/beginner Woolacombe is probably the best place to learn on the Bideford Bay coast without costing a small fortune or breaking bones!
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Handmade fudge is the villages fudge and sandwich shop
*Many surf shops available in town for all your beachwear needs!
*With a number of surf schools to help you get going, Woolacombe is one of the best places in the UK to learn this exciting activity.
*Either buy or rent a pair of sturdy surf boots, just in case of stepping on a weaver fish - a very painful experience and the bane of many a holidaymaker in Wales and the West Country.
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Breakfasting in town is a local's favourite; either the Beachcomber (actually on the beach) or Electric Cafe/Restaurant provide fantastic options coupled with great views!
*Big Chief Waffles is a small but fantastic waffle shop (always seems to have good music coming from it!)
*A more gourmet experience can be found at Bar Electric, which provides a great lunchtime menu, as well as asian evening cuisine by one of Nobu's own.
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The Red Barn is a true surfers pub (even with old surfboards hanging from the ceiling), they have different live music on certain nights and it is also open in the day time.
*The Marisco Dirty Disco. Open W-Sa in the high summer, with top name DJ's popping in for sets occasionally. Acts such as Shy FX, DJ Hype, and Roots Manuva have all played here, believe it or not. A great night (if not memorable) to be had on every excursion...
*Beer, food and stunning views.
*Mediterranean style menu using fresh, local and seasonal produce. Great choice of dishes for all tastes. Children and dogs welcome.
*Mediterranean style menu using fresh, local and seasonal produce. Great choice for all tastes - dishes from the sea, from the fields and from the farm. Children welcome.
*The Woolacombe Bay Hotel welcomes non residents for drinks on the terrace, Devonshire cream teas, and offers a choice of two restaurants. Choose from Doyle's for fine dining or the Bay Brasserie for a more relaxed, informal atmosphere.
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Just don't. If you have to, get a BnB or a caravan. Staying in campervans along the Esplanade is also a popular option! A good idea is stay in nearby Ilfracombe, which has lots of options and is reasonably priced, and just a a five minute drive away.
*Self-catering family holiday facilities. 3 miles of blue flag beach. Lodges, apartments, caravan holiday homes, touring caravans and camping.
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[[WikiPedia:Woolacombe]]