Is Westward Ho! a good place for a family beach holiday?
Yes, Westward Ho! is considered an excellent destination for a family beach holiday. The beach has won Blue Flag awards for its cleanliness and safety, and it is patrolled by RNLI lifeguards during the summer months. The gently sloping, sandy beach is ideal for children to play and swim safely. Additionally, the village offers family-friendly amenities such as amusement arcades, go-karts, and mini-golf.
What kind of holiday is Westward Ho! best for?
Westward Ho! is primarily known as a family-friendly beach resort and a popular spot for watersports enthusiasts, particularly surfers. It's a great destination for those seeking a traditional seaside holiday with a relaxed atmosphere. It is less of a nightlife destination for younger groups and more geared towards families and couples wanting a beach-focused getaway.
Can you swim in the sea at Westward Ho!?
Yes, swimming is popular at Westward Ho! beach. The beach has a Blue Flag award, indicating high water quality. RNLI lifeguards are on duty during the main summer months, and it's generally considered a safe beach for swimming, especially when swimming between the designated flags. The beach slopes gently, making the waves less powerful than at some other nearby beaches. However, it's always advised to be aware of currents, especially near the rocks at the southern end and the estuary at the northern end.
Are dogs allowed on Westward Ho! beach?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Westward Ho! beach. During the off-season (October 1st to April 30th), dogs can roam the entire beach freely. However, from May 1st to September 30th, there are restrictions, and dogs are generally only allowed on the northern section of the beach, beyond Sandymere. Signs on the beach indicate the specific dog-friendly zones.
Where can I find accommodation with sea views in Westward Ho!?
Westward Ho! offers a variety of accommodation options with sea views, including holiday apartments, cottages, and some hotels. Many of these are located along the esplanade or in elevated positions overlooking the beach and Bideford Bay. Websites specializing in holiday rentals often have filters to search for properties with sea views.
What is the pebble ridge at Westward Ho!?
The pebble ridge at Westward Ho! is a distinctive natural feature of the beach. It's a large bank of rounded sandstone cobbles that stretches for about two miles, separating the sandy beach from Northam Burrows Country Park. The pebbles have been transported by sea currents from cliffs further down the coast. The ridge acts as a natural sea defence and is a unique geological formation.
Is Westward Ho! beach good for surfing?
Yes, Westward Ho! is a popular surfing destination suitable for various skill levels, including beginners. The beach offers consistent waves and can be surfed at different tide states, although beginners are advised to avoid high tide when waves break onto the pebble ridge. Several surf schools operate on the beach offering lessons and equipment hire. The beach is known for its friendly surfing community.
What are the parking facilities like at Westward Ho! beach?
There are several parking options at Westward Ho!. Two small car parks are located near the seafront, and there is ample parking available behind the beach in Northam Burrows Country Park. There's also the Slipway short-stay car park near the beach entrance. Charges and maximum stay times can vary depending on the season.
Is Westward Ho! beach accessible for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues?
Westward Ho! beach has provisions for accessibility. There is a slipway providing access to the sand, which is suitable for some mobility aids. Disabled-friendly toilets are available, and some local services offer beach wheelchair hire. While the pebble ridge can be challenging, the slipway offers a more accessible route to the beach.
Are there toilets and other facilities at Westward Ho! beach?
Yes, Westward Ho! beach is well-equipped with facilities. There are public toilets, including disabled facilities, located near the beach and in the visitor centre at the Northam Burrows end. You'll also find cafes, restaurants, beach shops, and first aid points.
What is Northam Burrows Country Park near Westward Ho! beach?
Northam Burrows Country Park is an area of grassland, salt marsh, and sand dunes located directly behind Westward Ho! beach and its pebble ridge. It's a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and part of the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The park offers walking trails, wildlife watching opportunities, and is home to the Royal North Devon Golf Club.
Can you walk from Westward Ho! to Appledore along the coast?
Yes, you can walk from Westward Ho! to the picturesque fishing village of Appledore. The South West Coast Path runs through Westward Ho!, and following it north will take you through Northam Burrows Country Park and along the Torridge Estuary to Appledore. It's a scenic walk with lovely views.
What is the best time of year to visit Westward Ho! beach?
The best time to visit Westward Ho! beach depends on your preferences. Summer (May to September) is popular for warm weather, swimming, and family holidays, with lifeguard services available. Spring and Autumn can also be pleasant, with fewer crowds and still good conditions for walking and surfing. Winter offers dramatic coastal scenery and is good for surfing, though facilities may have reduced hours.
Are there any quieter alternatives to the main Westward Ho! beach nearby?
While Westward Ho! beach itself is very long (about 2 miles), meaning you can usually find quieter spots by walking further along, especially towards the Northam Burrows end. For distinctly different, smaller, or more secluded beaches, you might explore other parts of the North Devon coastline, though these would require a drive. For example, Mouthmill Beach to the south is more secluded but requires a walk to access.
Is there a sea pool at Westward Ho!?
Yes, there is a tidal sea pool at Westward Ho!, often called the Rock Pool or Mermaid's Pool. It's a man-made pool cut into the rocks that fills with seawater at high tide, offering a unique swimming experience. It's free to use but check tide times before visiting, as it can be submerged at high tide and access can be slippery.
