Where is Widemouth Bay?

Widemouth Bay sits on the north Cornwall coast about three miles south of the seaside town of Bude, reached from the A39 and the South West Coast Path.

What is Widemouth Bay known for?

It is known for its wide expanse of sand, dramatic cliffs and Atlantic surf, with waves that often break more gently than Bude's other beaches, making it popular with surfers of all abilities.

What is the nearest town to Widemouth Bay?

Bude is the nearest town, just a few miles to the north, with shops, cafes and further beaches such as Summerleaze and Crooklets.

Place guide3 min readUpdated 10 Sept 2026

By the Down The Cove editorial team

Widemouth Beach

Widemouth Bay is a broad, sandy beach roughly three miles south of Bude, where the Atlantic rolls in against a backdrop of low cliffs. Its wide-open sweep of sand and gentler waves make it one of north Cornwall's best-loved spots for surfers and beach days alike.

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Quick notes for your visit

Beach and cove guide

Plan your visit

A simple guide to the feel of the place, how to arrive, and what to keep in mind before you go.

Widemouth Beach is the kind of place where the day is shaped by simple things: tide, weather, a picnic, and time to notice the coast properly.

Best forOpen coastal character with sand, pebbles, cliffs or coves depending on the tide and weather.

Families, beach days, coast paths, rock pools and relaxed exploring.

Getting thereParking, arrival and the practical first steps.

Plan the final walk from the car park and check whether the beach is easy with pushchairs, tired legs or beach bags.

What to look forA calmer way to plan with children or visitors.

A useful read before visiting with children, especially for tides, paths, facilities and simple beach expectations.

Before you goThe small checks that make the day easier.

Look up tide times, swimming guidance and weather before you go, especially on wilder beaches.

The full guide

Read straight through, or use the planning notes above to shape an easier coastal day.

Lifeguard cover changes by beach and season. Check the RNLI's current patrol dates before travelling, then follow local signs, flags and lifeguard advice on the day. Do not rely on a previous year's timetable.

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Beach Safety Guide

Common questions

Where is Widemouth Bay?: Widemouth Bay sits on the north Cornwall coast about three miles south of the seaside town of Bude, reached from the A39 and the South West Coast Path.
What is Widemouth Bay known for?: It is known for its wide expanse of sand, dramatic cliffs and Atlantic surf, with waves that often break more gently than Bude's other beaches, making it popular with surfers of all abilities.
What is the nearest town to Widemouth Bay?: Bude is the nearest town, just a few miles to the north, with shops, cafes and further beaches such as Summerleaze and Crooklets.

Two ways to make a day of it

Fresh air, good food and a bit of headspace. Here are two places to start.

Small Cornish harbour with fishing boats moored in clear water

Explore the coastline

Places and practical tips for days by the sea.

Grilled mackerel fillet with rocket and lemon on a plate

Find your next recipe

Ideas for preparing, cooking and enjoying seafood.

Editorial illustrations; explore the guides for place and recipe details.