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Hele Bay Beach
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A Hidden Cove with a Smuggler’s Past
Nestled on the eastern edge of Ilfracombe, Hele Bay Beach is a charming sand and shingle cove with a fascinating past. Once a hotspot for smugglers and secret coastal trade, this quiet beach is now a picturesque retreat for families, walkers, and nature lovers. With its rocky outcrops, sheltered waters, and access to the South West Coast Path, Hele Bay offers a perfect blend of history, coastal beauty, and outdoor adventure.
A Smuggler’s Haven & Historic Maritime Hub
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the secluded location of Hele Bay made it an ideal place for smugglers to land illicit goods, including brandy, silk, tobacco, and tea.
🏴☠️ Smugglers & Hidden Tunnels Local legend suggests that tunnels once ran between Hele Bay and Hele Corn Mill, allowing smugglers to secretly transport goods inland, avoiding the prying eyes of customs officers.
⛵ A Coastal Trading Post Before modern transport, Hele Bay was a key access point for local fishermen and traders, who relied on small boats to bring in supplies and fresh catches from the sea.
🌊 Shipwrecks & Maritime Mystery Like much of North Devon’s coastline, hidden rocks and powerful tides made this area treacherous for sailors, leading to numerous shipwrecks over the centuries.
Today, while the smugglers are long gone, the cove still retains its mystique and historic charm, making it a fascinating place to explore.
What to Expect When Visiting
Hele Bay Beach is a family-friendly, dog-friendly beach, ideal for coastal walks, rock pooling, and scenic photography.
🏖 A Mix of Sand & Shingle At low tide, more sand is exposed, creating perfect spots for paddling and beachcombing.
🐠 Rock Pools & Marine Life The rocky edges of the bay are home to crabs, starfish, and small fish, making it a great place for exploring tidal pools.
🚶 South West Coast Path Access The beach is a starting point for stunning coastal walks, leading to Hillsborough Nature Reserve, Ilfracombe Harbour, and beyond.
Wildlife at Hele Bay
With its clifftop surroundings, sheltered waters, and rocky shoreline, Hele Bay is a haven for wildlife.
🦅 Seabirds & Birds of Prey Look out for cormorants, oystercatchers, and peregrine falcons soaring above the cliffs.
🦭 Grey Seals Occasionally spotted bobbing in the waves or resting on the nearby rocks.
🦞 Crabs & Sea Creatures The rock pools are teeming with crabs, limpets, and sea anemones.
🦋 Wildflowers & Butterflies The surrounding cliffs and meadows bloom with heather, sea thrift, and coastal plants, attracting a variety of butterflies and pollinators.
Things to Know Before Visiting
📍 Location: Hele Bay, just east of Ilfracombe, North Devon
🚗 Parking & Facilities: There is a nearby car park, toilets, and a café, making it a convenient stop for families and walkers
🏊 Swimming & Safety: The waters are generally calm and sheltered, but always check tide times and conditions
🐕 Dog-Friendly: Dogs are allowed year-round, making it a great spot for a seaside stroll with pets
A Coastal Retreat with a Story to Tell
With its smuggling history, stunning coastal views, and peaceful charm, Hele Bay Beach is a hidden gem on the North Devon coast. Whether you’re exploring the rock pools, hiking the clifftops, or simply enjoying the fresh sea air, this historic cove offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
A visit to Hele Bay Beach is not just a day at the seaside it’s a journey into North Devon’s fascinating maritime past.