Bude isn’t really known for its beaches in the same way that perhaps Newquay or St Ives are celebrated for their world-famous stretches of sand. But Bude is also on Cornwall’s north coast and also attracts great waves for the surfers. So, for those in the know, this town is also an excellent place for an afternoon of sandy fun, surfing and swimming.
Summerleaze is probably Bude’s most well-known beach. But Crooklets Beach, on the north side of the town, is just as good and is actually attached to Summerleaze anyway as you can walk between the two in about a quarter of an hour during low tide. Crooklets is a bit pebbly at its top end but other than that the golden sands cover a mass of space and, once the tide is out, oodles of rockpools are revealed that are just begging to be explored.
This is a clean and safe beach that also attracts plenty of serious surfers due to the decent waves out there, although it’s super popular with families and people who just want to relax on those sands. There are a few companies around that offer surfboards, watersports and outdoor activities to tempt the more active visitors. Plus, Bude Sea Pool is next to Crooklets, which is well worth a paddle in its part-natural and part-manmade waters.
At the top of Crooklets, there’s a sloping promenade where you can find easy access down to the beach. Its viewing platform is worth checking out for a decent vantage point and there are some beach huts nearby that are available for hire. Lifeguards are on hand during the summer months and there’s a large car park next to the site as well. The usual seasonal dog ban is enforced here, though, as they are welcome on the beach during the whole year except the busy summer. Add a nearby play area, skate park, refreshment stops, pubs and amusements and you can immediately see why Bude and its beaches should be right up there on the list of must-visits along Cornwall’s incredible northern coastline.