Exmouth Seafront

Flat water behind the sandbank, waves out the back, and the shop right behind you.

The Seafront is where the Exe meets the sea. The main sailing area is sheltered by a massive sandbank which keeps the swell at bay and gives excellent flat water. If you want a wave, get out the back of the sandbar.

A deep channel runs very fast alongside the narrow beach backed by the road. That area is for experienced kiters only. You can kite the seafront on any state of tide, but it works best on a dropping tide about two to three hours before low water. That is when the sandbank comes up and the channel starts running very flat, which helps you stay upwind in lighter wind and lets you practise tricks without slipping downwind. Drop your kite in the channel, though, and be ready for a struggle.

Getting here: come into Exmouth on the A376 and follow signs for the seafront. Turn left on the seafront, cross the mini roundabout and drive past the inshore lifeboat station. There is parking all the way along, or go straight to Sideshore where there is parking behind the centre. Head down the slipway off the footpath and launch opposite the shop. Give us a wave and we will come down and launch you.

Watch it: Guide to paddleboarding in Exmouth.