The South Devon coastline, a stunning stretch of golden sands and turquoise waters, is home to some of the most picturesque beaches in the United Kingdom. The area is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, offering a diverse range of activities and breathtaking natural beauty.
In this article, we’ll explore 12 of the best beaches South Devon has to offer, so you can start planning your next seaside escape.
Best Beaches South Devon
12 Best Beaches South Devon
Bantham Beach
Bantham Beach, with its pristine sands and enticing waves, is a favorite among surfers and beachgoers alike. This wide, sandy beach is framed by dunes and boasts excellent water quality, making it perfect for swimming and paddling.
The beach also offers stunning views of Burgh Island and is ideal for long coastal walks. With a charming village nearby, Bantham Beach is a must-visit for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Bigbury-on-Sea Beach
Bigbury-on-Sea Beach is a family-friendly destination known for its spacious, sandy shore and calm waters. The beach is ideal for building sandcastles, swimming, and even trying your hand at stand-up paddleboarding.
Bigbury-on-Sea is also home to the iconic Burgh Island, accessible during low tide via a sandy causeway or by a unique sea tractor when the tide is high. Be sure to visit the famous art deco Burgh Island Hotel for a taste of history and glamour.
Blackpool Sands
Despite its name, Blackpool Sands is actually a shingle beach, nestled in a sheltered bay and surrounded by wooded hills. This Blue Flag awarded beach offers excellent water quality, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
The beach is also family-friendly, with a lifeguard service during the summer months and a variety of facilities, including a café, shop, and water sports equipment rental. Visitors can enjoy stunning coastal walks or simply relax and soak up the sun.
Hope Cove
Hope Cove is a picturesque coastal village boasting two idyllic sandy beaches, Inner and Outer Hope. Both beaches are sheltered by rocky headlands, making them perfect for sunbathing and swimming in calm waters.
Hope Cove is a great destination for rock pooling, crabbing, and exploring the South West Coast Path. With charming thatched cottages, a pub, and a selection of eateries, Hope Cove offers a delightful beach getaway.
Slapton Sands
Slapton Sands is a long, pebbly beach that stretches for nearly 3 miles, offering ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The beach is backed by the freshwater Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve, providing a unique opportunity for birdwatching and nature walks.
Slapton Sands is also a site of historical interest, as it was used as a rehearsal area for the D-Day landings during World War II. Don’t forget to visit the Sherman Tank memorial, which pays tribute to the lives lost during the ill-fated Exercise Tiger.
Thurlestone Beach
Thurlestone Beach, also known as South Milton Sands, is a sandy beach that features a striking natural landmark: the Thurlestone Rock, an arch-shaped rock formation that stands proudly in the water.
The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and rock pooling, while the nearby Thurlestone Golf Course offers a chance to practice your swing. The Beachhouse café serves delicious food and offers stunning views over the beach, making it a popular spot for a bite to eat.
Salcombe North Sands
Salcombe North Sands is a small, sheltered sandy beach located close to the popular sailing town of Salcombe. The beach is perfect for families, offering shallow waters for paddling and plenty of space for building sandcastles.
North Sands is also dog-friendly, making it a great destination for those with four-legged friends. After a day of beachside fun, you can take a leisurely stroll into Salcombe town and explore its charming shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Goodrington Sands
Goodrington Sands, situated near the bustling town of Paignton, is a popular family beach with plenty of amenities to keep everyone entertained. The beach is divided into two sections: the northern end is dog-friendly, while the southern end is reserved for sunbathers and swimmers.
Goodrington Sands also features a promenade, colorful beach huts, and a water park, ensuring a fun-filled day for all ages.
Dawlish Warren
Dawlish Warren is a Blue Flag awarded beach that boasts a vast expanse of golden sands backed by sand dunes and a nature reserve. This beach is perfect for families, with lifeguard service during the summer months and a range of facilities, including amusement arcades, cafes, and shops.
Dawlish Warren is also a haven for wildlife, with the nature reserve providing an essential habitat for various bird species and rare plants.
Torcross Beach
Torcross Beach, located at the southern end of Slapton Sands, is a pebble beach that offers stunning views of the coastline and the nearby freshwater lake, Slapton Ley.
The beach is perfect for swimming, fishing, and watersports, while the nearby village of Torcross provides a range of amenities, including a pub, cafes, and a small supermarket. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a delicious seafood meal at the Start Bay Inn, a historic pub with a fantastic beachside location.
South Milton Sands
South Milton Sands, a sheltered sandy beach, is a popular spot for families and watersports enthusiasts. The beach is backed by grassy dunes and offers excellent water quality for swimming and snorkeling.
The nearby South West Coast Path provides stunning coastal walks, perfect for exploring the area’s natural beauty. South Milton Sands is also home to the famous Thurlestone Rock, an impressive arch-shaped rock formation that makes for a perfect photo opportunity.
Mothecombe Beach
Mothecombe Beach is a hidden gem, offering a quiet and secluded spot for beach lovers. This sandy beach, nestled at the mouth of the River Erme, is surrounded by wooded cliffs and features rock pools teeming with marine life.
Mothecombe Beach is privately owned but open to the public on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The tranquil atmosphere and unspoiled beauty make it the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Final Thoughts
The South Devon coastline offers a wealth of stunning beaches, each with its unique charm and attractions. From the family-friendly shores of Bigbury-on-Sea to the surfer’s paradise of Bantham Beach, there’s a beach for every type of visitor.
So, pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and get ready to discover the best beaches South Devon has to offer. Happy beach-hopping!
