Burgh Island | South Devon Beach Bible
The village of Bigbury‑on‑Sea, set on the picturesque south coast of South Devon, overlooks sweeping Bigbury Bay and stunning...
by Janine de Lange / Beaches
‘South Devon’ and ‘beaches’ go together like clotted cream and scones, but with plenty of craggy cliffs, coves, and caves in addition the sandy bays we all know and love, there’s more to the region’s coastline than most people probably realise!
That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive South Devon Beach Bible. Whether you’re looking for a safe place to swim in Salcombe, a dog friendly beach near Dartmouth or a paradise for picnickers somewhere along on the coast path, there’s a South Devon beach for every occasion here in the South Hams. The Coast & Country Cottages’ South Devon Beach Bible is full of useful information about our favourite spots by the sea.
We’ve provided access to all the essential information that you would need for a great day out to the beach, like directions, facilities, places to eat and drink, activities and much more…
The Blue Flag award is the most prestigious international accreditation that a beach can receive. To achieve Blue Flag status, a beach must have the highest standards of water quality, safety, services, environmental management, education and information.
This all ensures that a Blue flag beach will always have clean water, a lifeguard on service and there are suitable facilities available, all which ultimately provide the perfect family friendly beach. It’s worth noting that this award scheme tends to favour beaches that cater for families and have a greater range of facilities, and not those which are more secluded and remote, so be sure to know that the rest of the beaches in Devon are still amazing!
Challaborough Beach is a beautiful sandy cove with a sheltered position and a magnificent outlook. It lies just north of the well-known beaches of Bigbury-on-Sea and Bantham Beach. Being just a stone’s throw away from these iconic beaches means that it is sometimes overlooked by visitors and locals alike – but as a Blue Flag beach, it is sure to have everything you and your family need for a perfect day out.
Soak up the sun while gazing out over the iconic Burgh Island, where just meters from the beach you will find fantastic spots to eat, drink and keep the kids entertained. Its location is also ideal for walks north to Ayrmer Cove or Westcombe Beach, as well as south towards Hope Cove.
With its sparkling turquoise waters framed by the sheltered crescent of the sandy beach, it is easy to see why Blackpool Sands is Blue Flag accredited. This often calm and protected bay, with a gradual sloping sea floor, is the perfect destination for swimming and a vast array of watersports. Located just four miles out of Dartmouth, this beach boasts not only a stunning location, but has all the amenities and facilities you need. With summer lifeguards on patrol, toilet and shower facilities, ample parking, a beach shop and the fantastic Venus café, it’s the perfect spot for a family to spend the entire day relaxing at the beach.
Lots of dog owners simply couldn’t bear the thought of leaving their canine companions behind when they set off on holiday. One of the joys of booking dog-friendly South Devon cottages near beaches is that you don’t have to, as your four-legged family members will find plenty to do in the region.
Beesands Beach is a long, shingle stretch on the South Devon coast, known for its peaceful setting and far-reaching views across Start Bay. Sitting within a quiet fishing village, it’s a great choice if you’re looking to escape the busier seaside resorts and enjoy a slower pace by the water, especially if you’re travelling with a dog.
With dogs welcome all year round and no seasonal restrictions, Beesands Beach is ideal for long coastal walks at any time of year. Backed by a freshwater lake and lined with a handful of well-regarded pubs and seafood spots, it’s particularly popular with walkers, couples and pet owners planning a relaxed break. The South West Coast Path runs right through the village, making it easy to explore nearby highlights like Start Point or venture towards Slapton Sands, giving you plenty of reasons to base your South Devon getaway here.
East Portlemouth Beach sits on the quieter side of the Salcombe Estuary, offering a mix of sandy coves and sheltered waters that make it a popular spot for a relaxed day by the coast. With views stretching across to Salcombe, it’s a great alternative to the busier beaches nearby, especially if you’re looking for somewhere a little more laid-back.
As a dog-friendly beach with no seasonal restrictions, East Portlemouth Beach is ideal for year-round walks with your four-legged companion. The calm waters and open space make it particularly suited to families and pet owners, while the nearby ferry across to Salcombe gives you easy access to shops, cafés and restaurants. Whether you’re planning a peaceful coastal stroll or a longer stay exploring the estuary and surrounding countryside, it’s a great place to base your South Devon break.
Slapton Sands is one of the most well-known beaches in South Devon, stretching for miles along Start Bay and offering a mix of shingle shoreline and wide-open coastal views. Backed by the Slapton Ley Nature Reserve, it’s a great spot if you’re looking to combine time by the sea with scenic walks and wildlife watching.
As a dog-friendly beach with no seasonal restrictions, Slapton Sands is perfect for long walks with your four-legged companion at any time of year. The sheer size of the beach means there’s plenty of space to explore, even during busier periods, making it a popular choice for dog owners, walkers and those planning a relaxed coastal break. With nearby villages, countryside trails and easy access to other parts of South Devon, it’s an excellent base for a longer stay by the coast.
Salcombe North Sands Beach is a popular sandy spot just outside the centre of Salcombe, known for its sheltered setting and easy access to the town. With calm waters and a gently sloping shoreline, it’s a great option for a relaxed day by the sea, whether you’re visiting as a couple, family or with your dog.
As a dog-friendly beach with year-round access, Salcombe North Sands is well-suited to coastal walks with your four-legged companion, especially outside of peak times. Its location makes it particularly appealing for those planning a stay nearby, with Salcombe’s shops, cafés and restaurants all within easy reach. From here, you can also pick up sections of the South West Coast Path, making it a convenient base for exploring more of South Devon at your own pace.
Thurlestone Beach is a scenic stretch of sand on the South Devon coast, best known for its iconic rock arch, the Thurlestone Rock, which sits just offshore. With its mix of sandy areas, rock pools and open views across Bigbury Bay, it’s a great choice for a traditional day at the seaside with plenty to explore.
As a dog-friendly beach with year-round access, Thurlestone Beach is ideal for long walks with your four-legged companion, whatever the season. The surrounding area is popular with walkers, with easy access to the South West Coast Path and nearby spots like Bantham and South Milton Sands. Whether you’re planning a short visit or looking for a base to explore this part of South Devon, it’s a well-rounded option for a relaxed coastal break.
Bigbury-on-Sea Beach is one of South Devon’s most recognisable coastal spots, known for its wide sandy shoreline and views out to the iconic Burgh Island. At low tide, you can even walk across the sand to the island itself, making it a great place to explore as part of a day by the sea.
As a dog-friendly beach with year-round access, Bigbury-on-Sea is a great option for walks with your four-legged companion, particularly outside of peak times when it’s a little quieter. The large expanse of sand provides plenty of space to roam, while the surrounding area offers easy access to the South West Coast Path for longer walks. With nearby villages, coastal scenery and plenty to see and do, it’s a strong choice if you’re planning a South Devon break with your dog.
Hope Cove Beach is a charming coastal spot made up of two sandy beaches, Inner Hope and Outer Hope, both offering sheltered conditions and scenic views across Bigbury Bay. Known for its traditional seaside feel and small village setting, it’s a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a relaxed day by the coast without venturing too far from local amenities.
As a dog-friendly destination with year-round access, Hope Cove is a great option for coastal walks with your four-legged companion, particularly outside of peak times when it’s a little quieter. The surrounding cliffs and nearby South West Coast Path provide plenty of opportunities to explore further, while the village itself offers a handful of cafés and pubs to stop off at along the way. Whether you’re planning a short visit or a longer stay, it’s a well-placed base for a South Devon break with your dog.
Salcombe South Sands Beach is a well-known sandy stretch just outside the town, offering calm waters and scenic views across the estuary. Easily accessible and backed by rolling countryside, it’s a popular spot for a relaxed day by the coast, whether you’re visiting for a few hours or planning a longer stay in the area.
As a dog-friendly beach with year-round access, South Sands is a great option for walks with your four-legged companion, particularly during quieter periods outside of the peak summer months. The nearby South West Coast Path provides plenty of opportunities to explore further, while Salcombe itself is just a short distance away for shops, cafés and restaurants. With its convenient location and mix of coastal and town access, it’s a strong choice for a South Devon break with your dog.
In addition to these beautiful beaches, don’t forget there’s over 60 miles of the South West Coast Path to explore with your dog – another reason that South Devon is such a good choice for dog friendly holidays in the UK!
To find out more about these beaches and their dog restrictions, why not read our comprehensive guide to dog-friendly beaches in South Devon »
For those a little more adventurous and seeking a peaceful retreat with the chance to escape the crowds, South Devon’s wonderfully rugged and remote stretches of coastline have all you need. Spending time at one of the more secluded beaches makes you feel as though you have your own private stretch of paradise. These spots are generally remote and sometimes difficult to get to, so while they may not have the facilities some of the more popular beaches have, it certainly makes up for it in serenity and beauty.
Soar Mill Cove is a secluded sandy beach tucked away between Salcombe and Hope Cove, making it one of South Devon’s best-kept coastal secrets. Surrounded by rolling countryside and rugged cliffs, it offers a quieter alternative to the region’s more popular beaches, ideal if you’re looking to escape the crowds.
Accessed via a short walk from the nearby car park, the cove’s tucked-away location adds to its appeal, rewarding visitors with a peaceful setting and scenic coastal views. The South West Coast Path runs close by, making it easy to explore the surrounding coastline or enjoy a longer walk along this stretch of South Devon. If you’re planning a relaxed break and want to discover somewhere a little off the beaten path, Soar Mill Cove is a great spot to include on your itinerary.
Westcombe Beach is a remote and lesser-known stretch of coastline in South Devon, offering a quiet escape for those willing to venture a little off the beaten path. Tucked between rugged cliffs and surrounded by open countryside, it’s the kind of place that feels far removed from the busier seaside spots nearby.
Access is a little more involved than other beaches in the area, typically requiring a walk along the South West Coast Path, but that’s all part of its appeal. Once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with a peaceful setting and uninterrupted coastal views, making it ideal for a slower-paced visit. If you’re planning to explore the more hidden corners of South Devon, Westcombe Beach is a great addition to your list.
Lannacombe Beach is a quiet, sandy cove tucked between East Prawle and Hallsands, offering a more secluded alternative to some of South Devon’s better-known coastal spots. Surrounded by rolling farmland and rugged cliffs, it’s a peaceful place to unwind and take in the natural scenery.
The beach is accessed via a narrow country lane and a short walk, which helps keep it feeling less crowded even during busier periods. Once there, you’ll find a mix of sand and shingle, along with calm waters that are well suited to a relaxed day by the sea. With the South West Coast Path running nearby, it’s also a great stop-off if you’re exploring this stretch of coastline, making it a worthwhile addition to any South Devon itinerary.
Mothecombe Beach is a tucked-away stretch of coastline at the mouth of the River Erme, offering wide sandy expanses and a quieter atmosphere than many of South Devon’s more popular beaches. Surrounded by rolling countryside and part of a privately owned estate, it has a more peaceful, unspoilt feel that sets it apart from busier seaside spots.
Access is slightly more limited, with seasonal opening times and a short walk from the car park, but that only adds to its appeal as a hidden gem. Once there, you’ll find plenty of space to spread out, along with scenic views across the estuary and out to sea. With nearby walking routes and a more secluded setting, Mothecombe Beach is a great choice if you’re looking to explore a quieter side of South Devon’s coastline.
Mattiscombe Beach is a remote and unspoilt stretch of coastline near Start Point, offering a truly off-the-beaten-path experience in South Devon. Tucked beneath rugged cliffs and surrounded by open countryside, it’s a great choice if you’re looking to discover a quieter, more natural side of the region’s coastline.
Accessed via a scenic walk along the South West Coast Path, the beach feels wonderfully secluded, with fewer visitors making the journey compared to nearby spots. The mix of shingle and sand, along with wide coastal views, makes it a rewarding place to spend time once you arrive. If you’re planning to explore some of South Devon’s lesser-known beaches, Mattiscombe is well worth adding to your list.
Prawle Point is one of the most rugged and remote spots along the South Devon coastline, offering dramatic sea views and a real sense of escape. As the southernmost point in Devon, it’s a place where you can experience the coastline at its most unspoilt, far from the busier beaches found elsewhere in the region.
Rather than a traditional sandy beach, Prawle Point is all about its wild landscape, with rocky coves, cliffside paths and sweeping views out to sea. Accessed via narrow country lanes and coastal footpaths, it rewards those willing to make the journey with a quieter, more peaceful setting. If you’re looking to explore beyond the usual seaside spots and discover something a little different, Prawle Point is a great addition to your South Devon itinerary.
For even more hidden gems, visit our blog for details on the best secret beaches in South Devon »
Watersports in South Devon are a favourite activity for everyone visiting or living in this stunning part of the world. Some are perfect for kayaking, whilst others provide the ultimate environment for surfing – here is the lowdown on where to visit…
With the many rivers, creeks and coves to explore, kayaking is a particularly favourite pastime. Take in the stunning natural scenery, see castles, forts and historic houses from a new perspective, and catch a glimpse of some wonderful wildlife. Visit Sea Kayak Salcombe in South Sands where they provide kayak hire and tuition.
Find out more about kayaking in South Devon »
One of the most iconic sea-based watersports, surfing is synonymous with the classic South Devon beach. Catching waves throughout the year, avid surfers flock to beaches like Bigbury-on Sea and Bantham beach. If the idea of surfing in South Devon appeals to you, there are plenty of fantastic local companies like Discovery Surf School who provide tuition and equipment hire.
Find out more about surfing in South Devon.
One of the fastest growing watersports worldwide, stand-up paddle boarding is rapidly becoming a popular pastime of locals and visitors alike. ‘SUP’ allows you explore the scenic coastline and see wildlife from a perspective you’re unlikely to have seen before. South Devon is the ultimate playground for those that like to paddle board, and there are a wealth of estuaries and calm coves to explore.
Find out more about stand-up paddle boarding in South Devon »
Undoubtedly blessed with some of the most magnificent coastal stretches in the UK, with a long unbroken section of the South West Coast Path to enjoy, you can choose almost any South Devon beach as the starting point for a spectacular coastal walk. Here are three of our favourite routes:
There are walks along the Coast Path to suit any level of fitness and experience. The route along Beesands and Slapton Sands provide a suitable stretch for those with mobility issues or those who just fancy a stroll.
There are also plenty of moderate and less strenuous routes – one of which can be taken from Bantham Beach through to Thurlestone Beach, or try Thurlestone to Hope Cove, where you can finish off with a bite to eat and something to drink at The Cove Café and Bar.
For the avid walkers, who really want to test their stamina walking through the steep hills and rocky paths, be sure to try out the Dartmouth to Blackpool Sands or the Hope Cove to Salcombe walk.
For everything you need to know about walking in our beautiful region, download the South Devon Walking Guide here.
At Coast & Country Cottages we have a wealth of coastal cottages situated just a stone’s throw from the beach. Perhaps you’d like to book a break in a holiday cottage near the beach so that you’ll never have to stray far from the water and can enjoy relaxing in a property with sea views, or even a dog friendly cottage near the beach. From large properties ideal for family holidays to quaint romantic breaks, you are sure to find something to suit.
Book your South Devon beach holiday today
by Janine de Lange / Beaches
I’ve had the privilege of living in the beautiful South West since 2010, and in my opinion there’s no better place in the worl...
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