Top 10 British beaches: Croyde Bay, Devon

From sand castles to sand-wiches, piers to promenades, swimming to surfing, we have picked a selection of beaches rated by the Quality Coast Awards that are just right for you.

Best for: Outstanding natural beauty
With more than half a mile of fine sands, one of the largest sand dune systems in the UK and dramatic surf, this is undisputedly an area of outstanding natural beauty. It's also a UNESCO-designated World Biosphere Reserve for rare flora and fauna.

Activities
Surfing, kite surfing and mountain boarding reign supreme here. Instruction and equipment are available from the surf school or extreme sports academy.

For families
Explore the dunes - you won't find any amusement parks here.

Bored of the beach?
Slightly inland you'll find Braunton which claims to be the largest village in England.

Search: Croyde Bay
Get away: UK Breaks from £79 | Enjoy England | Summer holidays
Related articles: Europe's top beaches | Beach nostalgia