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Surfing At Westward Ho!
Westward Ho! beach stretches just over two miles at low tide and is considered one of the safest beaches in Devon.
With minimal rip currents and few underwater obstructions, it’s ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts alike.
It’s a sandy beach break, with easterly winds blowing offshore. The beach picks up swell from the southwest to northwest, though southwest swell tends to deliver the best conditions. Surfing is possible at all stages of the tide, but at high water, waves break onto the pebble ridge — which can make exiting the sea tricky, especially during spring tides. For safety, beginners are advised to avoid surfing two hours either side of high tide.
Low tide offers the best wave shape, with clean shoulders perfect for carving. Without rip currents to assist, paddling out can be a challenge on certain days — but it’s all part of the adventure!
Westward Ho! can hold waves up to around eight feet (double overhead). When the swell gets bigger than that, the waves tend to break too far out to reach comfortably.
Westward Ho! has an incredible surfing community — friendly, laid-back, and full of positive energy.
The vibe in the water is always upbeat, and we welcome plenty of visitors who come to enjoy the sea, especially during the summer months.
Thanks to the size of the beach and the way the waves peak along its length, Westward Ho! can accommodate a lot of surfers without ever feeling crowded. Even in mid-summer, there’s space to spread out, which adds to the beach’s unique appeal.
We’re in the shop 52 weeks a year, so if you ever need advice, local knowledge, or tips to make your time in Westward Ho! even better, just pop in — we’re always happy to help.
Ho! Surf Shop is perfectly positioned for what we do.
The view from outside the shop gives us a clear look at the sea conditions — we can see how many people are out, what the waves are doing, and whether it’s a good time to hit the water.
And don’t forget — you can check it too! Our shop webcam streams live footage so you can see exactly what’s happening before you head down.
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