Adventure brief
Body Boards
Catch the waves of North Devon with body board rentals from Tom's Surf Hire in Croyde. Whether you're new to the sport or looking for flexible hire options, Tom's has you covered for an unforgettable day on the water.
Situated on England’s rugged North Devon coast, Croyde stands out as a prime destination where Atlantic waves crash against sandy shores framed by towering cliffs. Tom's Surf Hire offers a gateway to the water here, specializing in body board rentals that cater to adventurers of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re new to wave-riding or simply want to spend an active day in the surf, renting a body board from Tom’s provides a flexible, no-strings-attached way to engage with the ocean.
Croyde Bay is famed for its powerful, peeling waves that shape some of the UK’s most consistent surf breaks. The beach is backed by steep dunes and grassy slopes, providing stunning natural scenery that shifts dramatically with the tides and weather. Body boarding here lets you connect directly with the dynamic coastal environment—paddling out to catch shore-breaking waves or riding close to the swell where surfers make their marks.
Tom's Surf Hire stands out not just for its convenient hourly, daily, or weekly rental options, but also for its welcoming approach to local aquatic recreation. The team equips visitors with quality gear suited for varying abilities and offers the freedom to enjoy the ocean at your own pace. This open rental model fits perfectly with Croyde’s laid-back yet adventurous vibe, where families, solo travelers, and groups come to relish fresh sea air and the physical thrill of the surf.
Beyond the rush of waves, the area is notable for its geological features—exposed Devonian sandstone cliffs, patches of rare coastal wildflowers, and diverse shorebirds frequenting tidal pools and rocky outcrops. Visitors often find that body boarding here is more than just a sport; it’s a direct immersion into one of England’s most compelling coastal playgrounds. For those seeking flexibility, fun, and a connection to the natural forces of the ocean, Tom's Surf Hire offers an accessible entry point in Croyde’s vibrant seaside setting.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Check Local Surf Conditionsessential
Before heading out, review daily surf reports for wave size and tide times to find the safest and most enjoyable conditions.
- 02Use a Leashessential
Attach the leash wrist strap to your body board to prevent losing your board in strong waves or currents.
- 03Warm Up Before Entering Waterinfo
Spend a few minutes stretching to prepare your muscles and reduce the risk of cramps while body boarding.
- 04Respect Beach Etiquettewarning
Share the waves respectfully with surfers and swimmers, giving right of way to avoid collisions.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Wetsuit
Protects against cold water temperatures and extends time comfortably spent in the sea.
spring|fall|winterEssentialWaterproof Sunscreen
Prevents sunburn when spending extended periods in water and on the beach.
summerEssentialBoard Leash
Keeps your body board attached to you, ensuring it isn’t lost in the surf.
EssentialNeoprene Booties
Provides extra warmth and foot protection on rocky entry points and cold water.
spring|fall|winterLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Baggy Point headland for scenic cliff walks, Tidal pools near Blackrocks offering glimpses of small marine life
Local fauna
Oystercatchers frequenting the shoreline, Seals occasionally spotted offshore
Historic heritage
Croyde Bay has long been a popular surfing spot since the 1960s, credited with helping to grow the UK’s surf culture.
Mindful exploration
Local efforts focus on protecting dune vegetation to prevent erosion and maintaining water quality crucial for marine life and recreation.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Top of Baggy Point cliffs, South end of Croyde beach near Blackrocks, Pier steps at Croyde center
- Subjects
- Surfers and body boarders in action, Atlantic waves breaking, Coastal flora and rocky outcrops
- Best times
- Golden hour, early morning, sunset
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need to be an experienced swimmer to rent a body board?
Basic swimming skills are recommended for safety, but Tom's Surf Hire welcomes all skill levels and provides suitable boards.
Can I rent body boards for just an hour?
Yes, Tom's offers flexible rental durations including hourly, daily, and weekly options to fit your schedule.
Are wetsuits available for rent as well?
Yes, wetsuit rentals are available to complement your body board rental, especially useful in cooler months.
Is there a minimum age to rent a body board?
Tom's Surf Hire caters to families and children but requires that minors be supervised by an adult at all times.
What safety measures are recommended while body boarding?
Use the board leash, stay aware of surf conditions, and respect local beach guidelines to ensure a safe experience.
Where is Tom's Surf Hire located in relation to the beach?
Tom's Surf Hire is based near Croyde Bay, just a short walk from the beach, making gear pickup and drop-off convenient.