Beesands Beach | South Devon Beach Bible

Beesands Beach

The small fishing village of Beesands is located between Hallsands and Torcross on the coast of Start Bay, and is home to Beesands beach, an award winning ‘Blue Flag’ mile-long shingle stretch. Nestled between the sea and the freshwater lake of Widdicombe Ley, the village is home to a traditional and unspoilt fishing community, making it a popular spot amongst both locals and visitors. Backed by rolling South Devon countryside, this unspoilt village features little more than a church, a cluster of houses, and two enviable eateries looking out to sea, so you can enjoy a slower pace of life. There’s a traditional, working feel to the fishing village of Beesands where crab and lobster fishing remain important to its economy – visitors enjoy the down-to-earth, authenticity of the village. Best of all, you will find fishing boats offering up the catch of the day on the village green, perfect for a beach BBQ or taking home to cook a sumptuous feast!

How to get to Beesands beach

By car:
The village and beach are accessed down an old country lane which can be a bit tight at times so drive with care! For sat nav users, use the postcode TQ7 2EN. Despite the recent coastal erosion, and the impact this had on the village parking facilities, you will find free parking bays close to the Cricket Inn and Britannia @ The Beach. Additionally, there is a further car park towards the centre of the beach which proves popular for those that have a lot of equipment with them. Shore anglers, for example can have their hooks in the water within just a few minutes of arriving, without having to traipse over deep shingle banks with their kit!

By bus:
The Coleridge Bus is a volunteer-run local service, which stops at Beesands on Fridays (correct at the time of writing). Have a look at the Coleridge Bus timetable for further details and be aware that prior booking is usually required. The nearest regular bus stop is at Torcross. The 93 service stops at Torcross Stores en route between Dartmouth and Kingsbridge. For more information you can download a timetable here. 

On foot:
Beesands beach is perfectly placed to reach on foot from either Hallsands to the south or Slapton Sands to the north. The shortest walk from Hallsands is just under 1.5 miles, although there are some more meandering alternatives of up to 3 miles which the National Trust have signposted for your convenience. It’s a similar distance (1.2 miles) from Torcross, where you’ll find the nearest bus stop.

Is Beesands dog-friendly?

Yes. Beesands beach is dog-friendly, and welcomes canines and their companions throughout the year. The village is a superb place to enjoy with dogs, and there are so many factors that make Beesands dog-friendly. Enjoying a large shingle beach with direct access to the South West Coast Path, rolling countryside and wild woodland, there are so many areas perfect for exploration. What’s more, the neighbouring village of Hallsands is just a short walk away, and Hallsands Beach is also dog-friendly year round. For more information on the best beaches for you and your four-legged friend, check out our dog-friendly beach guide.

Walks from Beesands beach

For outdoor enthusiasts, Beesands is the ultimate playground. First and foremost its beachside location, situated directly on the South West Coast Path makes it a favourite destination for walkers, particularly those bringing their dogs. Within just a half hour walk on the coast path you can reach the beach of Hallsands or Torcross, or for something a little more arduous, navigate beyond Start Point. The Hallsands to Beesands circular walk is a popular route both locals and visitors tread, but for even more inspiration, download our comprehensive walking guide.

Things to do at Beesands beach

Whatever your favourite beach pastime may be, when you visit Beesands expect to find fishermen lining the waters edge, and swimmers, kayakers and paddle boarders exploring the crystal clear waters. For a gentle activity, spend your time nature spotting at Widdicombe Ley, a freshwater lake surrounded by reeds, shrubs and trees – a haven for wildlife. There’s a wheelchair-accessible hide for birdwatching on the southwest edge of the lake. Just a short drive away are the bustling harbour towns of Dartmouth and Salcombe, both popular options for those who would like to spend a little time exploring their cobbled streets, enviable eateries and boutique shops. For more inspiration, download our comprehensive guide on Things to do in South Devon.

The Cricket Inn at Beesands

Eating and drinking options are particularly good by Beesands beach. The Cricket Inn, just a stone’s throw from the water, puts a strong emphasis on local food, including the fruits of Start Bay. The Cricket Inn is also where, as teenage holidaymakers, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards first performed together in public – not a bad claim to fame! With a reputation as one of the ‘best foodie pubs in Kingsbridge’ it’s well worth a visit.

Britannia @ The Beach Beesands

Britannia @ The Beach, known by locals as ‘The Shack’, is the other daytime dining option. It puts a similar emphasis on high-quality local food, especially seafood, but it’s more than a café, it’s a fishmonger, local shop and takeaway too. You’ll be surprised at the breadth of the menu relative to the size of this little eatery, and it’s not all about seafood either. Britannia @ The Beach is a ‘bring your own’ café so feel free to take a bottle of your favourite tipple with you.

Similar beaches near Beesands beach

Beautiful Slapton Sands, Hallsands and Torcross, also part of Start Bay, are popular beaches amongst those visiting the area and boast shingle bays and calm, clear bathing waters. South Devon is the ultimate playground for beach lovers with a varied collection of shingle bays, secluded coves and large sandy expanses. At Coast & Country Cottages we love the beach, so much so, we’ve created our South Devon Beach Bible, so be sure to download it for more information.

Beesands holiday cottages

Our Beesands holiday cottages are perfect for those looking for a peaceful break that is within easy reach of a number of picturesque beaches. From large holiday homes for group breaks, to traditional coastal cottages, we have holiday accommodation in and around Beesands to suit every party type. If you’re keen to include your pooch in your holiday plans then look no further than our dog-friendly cottages in Devon, including our collection of dog-friendly cottages near the beach.

Browse our Beesands holiday cottages

Prospect House Hallsands

Prospect House situated in the nearby village of Hallsands is a complex of luxury apartments, two of which are available as holiday homes with Coast & Country Cottages. Boasting panoramic sea views with Juliet balconies, they also have access to beautifully landscaped gardens, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and all-weather tennis court.

Book your holiday cottage at Prospect House today!