If there’s one thing our guests love most about holidaying at No. 9 Putsborough, it’s discovering where to eat in Woolacombe and enjoying the incredible sea view restaurants in North Devon dotted along the coast. From laid-back beach cafés to stylish coastal dining spots, we’ve rounded up our top five restaurants in North Devon where you can feast your eyes (and your appetite) on the best of Devon’s seaside flavours that are guaranteed to keep everyone smiling.
The Beach House Woolacombe
Best for: Fresh seafood and local charm
We’re lucky to have Beach House Woolacombe as our local seafood spot — just a short stroll from No.9 Putsborough. Cosy, intimate and full of friendly charm, it’s one of the most loved sea view restaurants in Woolacombe. The relaxed terrace looks out towards the village with glimpses of the coast, making it a lovely spot for an evening meal after a day on the beach. Expect fresh Devon produce such as sizzling tiger prawns or Lundy lobster, perfectly paired with a crisp glass of wine .
Where? 2 minutes walk
Barricane Beach Café
Best for: Sunset suppers with sand between your toes
For those in the know, Barricane Beach Cafe is the spot for front-row seats to the sunset and one of the most iconic sea view restaurants in Woolacombe (albeit with your toes in the sand rather than under a table!). The café dishes up lip-smacking Sri Lankan curries from 5–7 pm on fine-weather evenings — with both vegetarian and chicken options available. Simply turn up with a beach chair or blanket, a few cold beers and settle in for a sunset showstopper. It’s wonderfully dog friendly, and the beach itself welcomes pups all year round — perfect for a pre-supper walkies.
Where? 8 minutes stroll
Lime Kiln Ilfracombe
Best for: Panoramic sea views and evening vibes
This sea view restaurant in North Devon truly wins the view award. Perched on the edge of the water overlooking Damien Hirst’s 66ft tall statue Verity, The Lime Kiln Café & Bar boasts a large panoramic terrace perfect for enjoying coastal dining at its finest. The menu is full of West Country favourites, from fresh mussels to the iconic Lime Kiln Fish and Chips, all served in a stylish setting. After sunset, the terrace comes alive with cocktails and live music, making it one of the top places to eat near Woolacombe for a relaxed, unforgettable evening.
Where? 15 minutes drive
The Boathouse Instow
Best for: Family-friendly seaside dining
Perched right on the sands of Instow, The Boathouse is ideal for families after a day of sandcastles and crabbing. If you’re lucky enough to snag a table on their ‘top deck’ terrace, you’ve got a prime spot to soak up the estuary views while enjoying freshly prepared dishes. From Baked Somerset Camembert to Devon crab linguine, there’s something for everyone, and little ones can tuck into their own specially curated menu. It’s one of the top places to eat near Woolacombe with stunning views and a relaxed seaside vibe.
Where? 38 minutes drive
Beach Café Downend
Best for: Beachside Sri Lankan flavours
Where Sri Lanka meets the surf crew, The Beach Cafe Downend is a gem for coastal dining and fans of bold, fragrant curries. Open Thursday to Sunday, you can enjoy legendary Sri Lankan dishes with a sea view in North Devon. Take your feast away for a picnic on the sand or settle in at the café to soak up the atmosphere. Either way, it’s a top place to eat near Woolacombe for those craving something different with a relaxed, seaside vibe.
Where? 18 minutes drive
