Torquay, affectionately known as the Queen of the English Riviera, is a vibrant coastal town surrounded by an array of beautiful beaches. With its picturesque coastline, crystal-clear waters, and abundant activities, it’s no wonder Torquay is a popular destination for beach lovers.
In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of the 9 best beaches near Torquay, each offering a unique and unforgettable seaside experience.
Best Beaches Near Torquay
9 Best Beaches Near Torquay
Torre Abbey Sands
Located just a stone’s throw from Torquay’s bustling marina, Torre Abbey Sands is a beautiful, family-friendly beach with golden sand and calm waters. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beach games, with a range of amenities, including deckchair hire, beach huts, and cafés.
The nearby Torre Abbey Gardens and historic Abbey provide a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a picnic on the lush, green lawns.
Meadfoot Beach
A short walk from Torquay town centre, Meadfoot Beach is a picturesque mix of sand and shingles with stunning views of the surrounding cliffs. This tranquil beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere than its bustling neighbour, Torre Abbey Sands.
Meadfoot is perfect for a peaceful day by the sea, with rock pools to explore, calm waters for swimming, and a lovely café for refreshments. The nearby coastal path provides fantastic opportunities for scenic walks and wildlife spotting.
Oddicombe Beach
Accessible by a charming cliff railway or a steep footpath, Oddicombe Beach is a hidden gem nestled below the towering cliffs of Babbacombe Downs. This sheltered, red-sand beach is brilliant for like kayaking and paddleboarding.
The beach boasts a range of amenities, including deckchairs, a café, and even a floating platform for swimmers to enjoy. Don’t forget to take a ride on the historic Babbacombe Cliff Railway for a unique and memorable experience.
Babbacombe Beach
Just a short walk from Oddicombe Beach, Babbacombe Beach is a smaller, more secluded cove with a mix of sand and shingle.
The beach is popular among locals for its crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
With a peaceful atmosphere and a quaint café, Babbacombe Beach is an ideal spot for a tranquil day by the sea. The nearby Babbacombe Model Village is a must-visit attraction for families, offering a miniature world of fun and enchantment.
Preston Sands Beach
Located in the neighbouring town of Paignton, just a 10-minute drive from Torquay, Preston Sands Beach is a long, sandy beach perfect for families and water sports enthusiasts.
The nearby Paignton Green offers a spacious area for picnics and play, making it a fantastic spot for a full day of fun in the sun.
Goodrington Sands
Another gem in Paignton, Goodrington Sands is a popular, family-friendly beach boasting golden sand and calm, shallow waters.
The beach is divided into two sections: North Sands, which is dog-friendly year-round, and South Sands, which offers a more traditional seaside experience with colourful beach huts and a promenade.
The nearby Goodrington Park features a boating lake, splash park, and the popular Paignton Zoo, providing endless entertainment for the whole family.
Broadsands Beach
A short 15-minute drive from Torquay, Broadsands Beach is a beautiful, crescent-shaped sandy beach nestled between Paignton and Brixham.
The beach is wonderful for families, with calm waters for swimming, a large grassy area for picnics and games, and a charming steam railway running behind the beach.
With ample parking, beach huts, a café, and a children’s play area, Broadsands Beach offers a fantastic day out for beach lovers of all ages.
Anstey’s Cove
For a more secluded beach experience, Anstey’s Cove is a must-visit. Tucked away in a peaceful corner of Torquay, this small, shingle beach offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
Anstey’s Cove is an ideal spot for swimming, snorkelling, and even fishing, with a relaxed atmosphere that makes it perfect for a quiet day by the sea.
The nearby coastal path provides fantastic opportunities for scenic walks, with breathtaking views of the English Riviera.
Maidencombe Beach
Located just a 20-minute drive from Torquay, Maidencombe Beach is a picturesque, secluded cove with a mix of sand and shingle.
This tranquil beach is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea.
The clear waters at Maidencombe are ideal for swimming and snorkelling, with rock pools to explore and a charming thatched-roof café nearby. The surrounding cliffs offer fantastic coastal walks, with stunning views of the South Devon coastline.
Final Thoughts
From the bustling sands of Torre Abbey to the hidden tranquillity of Anstey’s Cove, the beaches near Torquay offer a diverse range of coastal experiences to suit every taste.
Whether you’re in search of adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, the stunning beaches of South Devon have it all. So, gather your beach essentials and prepare to explore the 9 best beaches near Torquay for an unforgettable seaside escape on the beautiful English Riviera!
Founder, Editor
Ed is the founder and editor at Lifes Beaches. He’s lived near a beach his whole life and loves exploring other great places to enjoy the sun and the sea. He’s a keen surfer and enjoys finding hidden beach spots to catch the best waves.
