Wave of Change: North Devon Achieves Surfing Reserve Status

North Devon's coastline has long been known for its stunning beauty and great waves, making it a popular destination for surfers from around the world. But it wasn't until 2022 that North Devon became recognized as a World Surfing Reserve, joining just a handful of other iconic surfing destinations with this prestigious status.

The World Surfing Reserve program was launched in 2009 by the Save the Waves Coalition, a global nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting surf ecosystems and the cultural heritage of surfing. The program seeks to identify, designate and preserve outstanding surf breaks, and the surrounding environments and communities that make them special.

North Devon's designation as a World Surfing Reserve is a testament to the area's rich surfing culture, its commitment to environmental conservation, and the high quality of its waves. The reserve encompasses five world-class surf spots that showcase the diversity of the area's waves and offer something for surfers of all levels.

The five surf breaks included in the North Devon World Surfing Reserve are:

1. Croyde Bay: This is perhaps the most famous surf spot in North Devon, and with good reason. The consistent waves here are suitable for surfers of all abilities, with a mix of lefts and rights that break over sand and rock bottoms. The beach can get busy in peak season, but the waves are well worth the crowds.

2. Saunton Sands: This beach offers long, gentle waves that are ideal for beginners and longboarders. The waves can get bigger further out, and more experienced surfers can find some great rides here. The beach is also home to the Saunton Beach Surfing Academy, which offers lessons and rentals for all levels.

3. Woolacombe Bay: Woolacombe is a three-mile stretch of beach that has been named one of the best beaches in Europe, and it's not hard to see why. The beach has consistent, powerful waves that break over a sand bottom, making it a popular destination for surfers of all levels. The waves can get crowded, but there's plenty of space to spread out.

4. Lynmouth: This is a less well-known surf spot in North Devon, but it's worth checking out for experienced surfers looking for a challenge. The waves here can be powerful and fast, breaking over a rocky reef. The beach is also home to some interesting geology, with the dramatic cliffs and rock formations providing a stunning backdrop to the surf.

5. Westward Ho!: This is another great beach for beginners, with gentle waves that break over a sand bottom. The beach can get busy in peak season, but there's plenty of space to spread out. The beach is also home to the North Devon Surf School, which offers lessons and rentals for all levels.

In addition to these five world-class surf breaks, the North Devon World Surfing Reserve is also home to a thriving surfing community, with numerous surf schools, shops, and events throughout the year. The reserve's designation also underscores the area's commitment to environmental conservation, with efforts underway to protect and preserve the local coastline and marine life.

North Devon's designation as a World Surfing Reserve is a great honor and a testament to the area's rich surfing culture and commitment to environmental conservation. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, there's no shortage of great waves to ride in North Devon, and the area's stunning scenery and friendly locals only add to the appeal. So grab your board and come experience the world-class waves of North Devon for yourself.