An Introduction To Bantham Surf
Bantham Surf, located on the stunning South Devon coast, is renowned for its excellent waves & breathtaking scenery. This charming surf destination offers a variety of surf conditions, making it perfect for beginners & advanced surfers alike. Its compact layout ensures easy exploration without the need for a car, creating a laid-back & accessible experience for all.
Bantham Beach is the heart of the action, with mellow waves near the shore for novices & more challenging breaks further out for experienced surfers. Its unspoiled natural beauty & reliable surf attract visitors year-round, making it a must-visit spot on the South Devon coast.
For those keen to venture beyond, Thurlestone Beach is a scenic 40-minute walk or a quick 10-minute bike ride away. Bigbury-on-Sea, another favorite among surfers, can be reached by paddling across the River Avon at low tide, offering consistent waves & wide sandy shores. A bit further afield, South Milton Sands provides a quieter, relaxed surf experience. For even more variety, Hope Cove, a peaceful & sheltered spot, is just a 20-minute taxi ride away.
With its excellent surf, charming village atmosphere, & convenient access to nearby beaches, Bantham Surf is an ideal base for exploring the South Devon coastline. Whether you’re catching your first wave or seeking your next surf challenge, Bantham has something for everyone.
In This Guide
Best Time To Surf Bantham
Bantham Surf Seasons:
- Autumn (September-November): Consistent swells & cooler water temperatures, ideal for longer sessions.
- Attire Needed: 4/3mm wetsuit.
- Winter (December-February): Large, powerful swells with occasional storms.
- Attire Needed: 5/4mm or 6/5mm wetsuit with gloves & boots.
- Spring (March-May): Transition season with moderate swells & milder temperatures.
- Attire Needed: 4/3mm wetsuit.
- Summer (June-August): Smaller, more consistent surf with warmer temperatures.
- Attire Needed: 3/2mm wetsuit or shorty.
Bantham Surf Conditions:
- Wave Size & Swell Direction: Waves range from 2 to 6 foot, best with southwest to northwest swells.
- Break Type: Mostly beach breaks, with some point breaks & both mellow & powerful rides.
- Tide & Wind: Best at mid to high tide for most spots, with south-westerly winds keeping the waves clean.
- Skill Required: Suitable for all levels, though larger swells can be challenging for beginners.
Bantham Surf Spots Within a 5km Radius
| Best Surf Spots | Distance from Bantham | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Bantham Beach |
Approx. 500m (0.3mi) west |
2-6 foot |
Classic beach break |
All levels |
|
Thurlestone Beach |
Approx. 2.5km (1.5mi) south |
2-6 foot |
Sheltered beach break |
Beginner to intermediate, great for learners |
|
Bigbury-on-Sea Beach |
Approx. 3km (1.9mi) west |
2-6 foot |
Beach break |
Beginner to intermediate, good for building confidence |
|
South Milton Sands |
Approx. 3km (1.9mi) south |
2-6 foot |
Powerful beach & point break |
Intermediate to advanced |
|
Hope Cove |
Approx. 5km (3.1mi) south |
1-3 foot |
Mellow beach break |
Beginner |
Access To Bantham Surf Spots
| Best Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bantham Beach |
5 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
|
Thurlestone Beach |
Approx. 40 min. |
15 min. |
40 min. (Bus routes available) or 10 min. Taxi
|
|
Bigbury-on-Sea Beach |
Approx. 45. Includes paddle across River Avon |
N/A |
30 min. Taxi |
|
South Milton Sands |
Approx. 45 min. |
20 min. |
20 min (Bus routes available) or 10 min. Taxi |
|
Hope Cove |
Approx. 1 hr 15 min. |
Approx. 35 min. |
Approx. 1 hr. 15 min. (Bus routes available) or 30 min. Taxi |
Bantham Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Bantham offers fantastic opportunities to learn or improve your surfing skills with two excellent schools. Discovery Surf is renowned for its friendly and experienced instructors who cater to all ages and abilities, ensuring a safe and enjoyable learning experience.
Bantham Surfing Academy specializes in high-quality surf coaching, emphasizing ocean safety and wave-riding techniques.
Both schools provide a supportive environment, making Bantham an ideal spot for beginners and intermediate surfers seeking to enhance their skills amidst the area’s stunning coastal scenery.
Bantham Surf Camp
While Bantham doesn’t host traditional surf camps, the area boasts a variety of accommodations close to the beach, ranging from cozy cottages to camping options.
These provide a perfect base for surfers who want to enjoy the waves and the surrounding natural beauty. With its relaxed atmosphere and proximity to top surfing spots, Bantham offers a great surfing getaway.
Bantham Surfboard Rental
Both Discovery Surf and Bantham Surfing Academy provide convenient surfboard rental options, ensuring access to quality equipment for all skill levels.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for a stable foam board or an experienced surfer in need of a high-performance board, their well-maintained selection has you covered.
Rentals are available directly on-site, making it easy to gear up and hit the waves without delay.
Bantham Surf Report & Surf Cam
While you’re enjoying your time in Bantham, staying updated on surf conditions is key to making the most of your sessions. Websites like Surf-Forecast and Surfline provide detailed weather and surf reports, including swell size, wind direction, and tide times, to help you plan your day.
For those wanting a real-time view of the waves, Surfline offers live surf cameras at many popular breaks. However, access to these cameras requires a paid subscription. Despite the cost, Surfline’s cameras can be a valuable tool for surfers who want to check conditions before heading out. With these resources, you’ll always be in the know about the best times to hit the water.
Accommodation In Bantham
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range per night (EUR) | Price Range per night (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€110 to €235 |
$120 to $250 |
|
Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€280 to €450+ |
$300 to $500+ |
For all your accommodation needs in Bantham, we highly recommend checking out Booking.com, which offers a wide range of options, from luxury beachfront resorts to cozy holiday apartments.
If you’re traveling on a tighter budget or looking for a social and lively atmosphere, Hostelworld.com is a fantastic resource. It features affordable hostels, budget-friendly guesthouses, and even unique stays like surf lodges, perfect for meeting fellow travellers and sharing the coastal vibe.
How To Get To Bantham Surf
How to get to Bantham from Exeter Airport (EXT)
Reaching Bantham from Exeter Airport (EXT) is straightforward, with several options for different budgets & travel times. Here’s a guide with estimated travel times & costs to help you choose the best option.
Distance: Approx. 50km (31mi)
- Taxi:
- Time: 1hr.
- Cost: Approx. $75-$130 USD
- Note: Direct taxi from the airport to Bantham for a convenient, door-to-door option.
- Bus + Taxi (Best Option):
- Time: 1.5 to 2 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $18-$40 USD per person
- Note: Take a bus from Exeter Airport to Totnes or Kingsbridge, then a taxi to Bantham. This option combines affordability with reasonable travel time.
- Public Transport (Bus Only):
- Time: 2 to 2.5 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $12-$20 USD per person
- Note: Buses from Exeter Airport to Bantham require a few transfers, making it the most budget-friendly but time-consuming option.
How to get to Bantham from London
To reach Bantham from London, travelers have a few options with varying travel times & costs.
Distance: Approx. 250km (155mi)
- Train (Best Option):
- Time: 3.5 to 4 hrs. (London Paddington to Totnes) + 30 mins transfer
- Cost: Approx. $120-$270 USD per person
- Note: Take a direct train from London Paddington to Totnes, then a short bus or taxi to Bantham.
- Bus:
- Time: 6 to 8 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $25-$50 USD per person
- Note: Direct buses from London to Totnes are available; from there, take a bus or taxi to Bantham.
- Flight to Exeter Airport + Transfer:
- Time: 1 hr. (flight) + 1.5 hrs. (transfer)
- Cost: Approx. $65-$150 for the flight + $25-$50 for the transfer ($90-$200 USD total)
- Note: Fly from London to Exeter, then take a bus or taxi to Bantham.
Discover Bantham: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
Explore the South West Coast Path
Discover the scenic beauty of Bantham along the South West Coast Path, a renowned walking trail offering spectacular views of the coastline. Enjoy panoramic vistas over cliffs, beaches, & nearby Burgh Island, as well as opportunities to spot local wildlife & explore hidden coves.
Visit Burgh Island
Just across from Bantham Beach, Burgh Island is accessible by foot at low tide or via a charming sea tractor during high tide. Known for its art deco hotel & links to Agatha Christie, the island offers a unique blend of history, scenery, & adventure.
Birdwatching at Avon Estuary
The Avon Estuary, located nearby, is an ideal spot for birdwatchers & nature enthusiasts. With a range of habitats, including salt marshes & mudflats, this area attracts a variety of bird species, especially during migration seasons.
Dine at The Sloop Inn
The Sloop Inn, a historic pub in Bantham Village, is perfect for a relaxing meal after a day of exploration. Known for its local seafood, traditional pub fare, & cozy atmosphere, it’s a favorite spot for both locals & visitors looking to unwind.
