Croyde Bay
Also called "Mid beach" - this is the main beach break of the bay. In summer, this is super busy, and you'll be fighting through crowds of other surfers and people out swimming.
The spot
Classic spot, very consistent and a ton of options depending on the type of surf you want to do. Most common lineups are the reefs on both ends of the bay and obviously the main central beach.
I'd recommend avoiding summer months here. Tends to get very busy with holiday goers and other beginner surfers. Tends to thin out during the other months, which have much better waves anyways.
Seems like most of the parking spots here are paid, but there's a few in the area - the Downend car park also has outdoor showers.
Lineups
Baggy Point
These are the rock reefs right at the north end of the bay. Tend to produce much more hollow waves than the main beach, as most reefs do.
Downend Point
Another reef option on the southern end of the bay. Kind of a mix between a reef and a point, depending on which way to swell is wrapping into the bay. Produces some hollow waves, but also some pretty long rides, depending on the day. Breaks onto shallow rocks, so avoid unless you know what you're doing.
Amenities
- Toilets
- Rentals
- Surf school
- Café