Woolacombe Sands is a 3 mile long sandy beach backed by dunes and is very popular for surfing and water sports. Parking (all day) is at a large car park behind the beach (not cheap), or alternatively, P&D parking is available along the Esplanade. Marine Drive runs about 200 yards from and parallel to the shore, and has plenty of parking run by the National Trust. Facilities include toilets, cafes and surf hire. Lifeguards are on duty daily from early May until late September and also on some weekends either side of this period. Dogs are not allowed north of the stream (see image above) from 1st April until 30th September.