Croyde is one of the best beach breaks for surfing in the UK and produces hollow barrelling waves at low tide in the right conditions. It is primarily a wave for experienced surfers.

The area has other surfing beaches that are just as good in their own right. Saunton Sands for example boasts one of the best longboard waves in the country and the beach stretches for miles, as does Croydes' other neighbouring beaches at Putsborough and Woolacombe.

The area is geared towards catering to visiting surfers and watersports enthusiasts. There are a number of surf schools and surf companies in the area and Croyde Surf Club seem to win the national championships on annual basis.