Short answer: Ilfracombe harbour is the crabbing spot on this coast — a proper working quay with parking right beside it and shelter from the worst of the weather. Go on a rising tide, and try Rapparee Cove if the quay is full.
Ilfracombe has what Woolacombe and Croyde do not: a real harbour with quay walls to sit on and water below them. It is a working port rather than a marina, which means there is always something going on, and it is sheltered enough that a bit of weather does not end the morning.
The quay around the harbour is the obvious spot. Parking sits directly outside the aquarium on the quay, which is the most convenient in town and reasonably priced — you can be sitting with a line five minutes after arriving. Verity on the pier is right there, so the adults have something to look at.
Harbour Beach, the fine soft sand beside the quay, appears as the tide drops and is dog friendly and spotless. It is a good spot to work rock pools while someone else holds the line.
A rising tide is best for crabbing off a wall — the crabs come in with the water and there is enough depth below you to fish. Low water leaves you dangling a line over mud, which children lose patience with quickly. Ask at the harbour if you are unsure; people here will tell you.
Rapparee Cove, just east of the harbour off the coast path, is sheltered with stepped entry into the water and rocks to climb. Reviewers describe plenty of rocks and rock pools to explore. Quieter than the harbour and a different view back towards the town.
A line rather than a net, a bucket, and bait. Bacon is the traditional choice and works; so does squid from the fishmonger. Fill the bucket with seawater before you start and keep it in the shade.
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