Close Icon
Quiet Soar Mill Cove Beach

As you drive through winding roads towards Soar Mill Cove, the serene sense of escapism graces you as you marvel at the view of the sea meeting the sky. Looking out at the picturesque landscape, the rolling countryside draws your eye down to the beach, inviting you to walk on the sandy shore. As you walk through fields to the beach, you may be lucky enough to be greeted by the friendly presence of wild deer roaming the fields, or find seasonal sloes and blackberries to forage. With some of the most breathtaking views to marvel at in South Devon, this stunning location is one that finds yourself wanting to switch off your phone to enjoy the best of nature.

Soar Mill Cove path to beach


Soar Mill Cove Beach

Soar Mill Cove Beach

Soar Mill Cove Beach is nestled amongst rolling countryside between Salcombe and Hope Cove – a hidden treasure trove that looks like something out of an Enid Blyton book. Due to its secluded nature you can only walk, kayak, or drop your anchor in and swim from your boat to get there, but that’s what makes it special. No noise of cars, no signal, just complete escapism. Once you get to the beach, enjoy relaxing on the sand, discovering an array of rock pools, and exploring some of South Devon’s best caves.

To those that regularly escape to Soar Mill Cove, or those that stumble upon its breathtaking presence whilst walking the South West Coast Path, it’s safe to say that this hidden haunt will hold fond memories in your heart.

Dog-friendly?

Yes, pets are welcome all year round.

Our top local tip

Take a torch with you and visit the beach at low tide, as the best caves are located slightly further out on your left hand side when facing the sea.

Similar beaches

secret Devon beaches - Gara Rock

South Devon boasts an array of secluded coves. Why not visit Gara Rock Beach and Westcombe Beach during your holiday, to experience more hidden haunts?

Parking at Soar Mill Cove

At Soar Mill Cove there is one car park, the ‘beach car park’ at Soar Mill Cove Hotel, located within a 15-minute walk of the sandy shore below. Or, you can walk to the beach along the South West Coast Path from Bolberry Down National Trust car park (1 mile), Hope Cove (3.5 miles) or, in the other direction, Salcombe (just under 7 miles).

Places to eat near Soar Mill Cove Beach

Soar Mill Cove Hotel

Soar Mill Cove Luxury Afternoon Tea, South Devon

Why not put your BBQ skills to the test with a beach feast, or save yourself for an indulgent spread at the pet friendly Soar Mill Cove Hotel – a well deserved treat after walking back up the hill on the return to your car or holiday home from the beach. Listed as one of our best places to indulge in afternoon tea in Devon, we highly recommend taking time for this truly Devonshire treat. Choose from a classic cream tea inclusive of homemade fluffy scones, jam and local clotted cream, or luxury afternoon tea with crab sandwiches, Salcombe gin and tonic, and sweet treats too – delicious. Sit outside in the sunshine with your pooch, or relax indoors, both boasts breathtaking sea views.

Slinky and Gingers

Approximately a five-minute walk up hill from the hotel is Slinky and Gingers, a small takeaway and patisserie café. Serving fresh pizzas, burgers and tasty treats, this is an ideal pit stop when you want to take food to the beach without the hassle of having to cook anything yourself.

Oceans Restaurant

Ocean Reach restaurant near Soar Mill Cove

If you are visiting the beach from Hope Cove or Bolberry, why not indulge in sandwiches, flatbreads, cakes and more at Oceans Restaurant. Either sit outside in the sunshine where dog bowls are regularly topped up, or relax indoors by the fireplace on blustery days. As you indulge in your lunch, enjoy marvelling at the panoramic open sea view.


Soar Mill Cove walking routes

Bolberry to Soar Mill Cove

Why not stop off at Soar Mill Cove whilst walking the popular Hope Cove to Salcombe trail? The beach is ideally located next to the South West Coast Path, past Bolberry, so you can enjoy a refreshment or picnic during this 8.5 mile long trail.

For more walking inspiration and detailed trails, click here to download your free South Devon Walking Guide.


Directions to Soar Mill Cove

Sat nav users can use the post code TQ7 3DS, and continue along the track until you reach the car park on your left.

From Salcombe

1. Leave Salcombe on Salcombe Road.
2. At Malborough when the road bends right, continue straight into the village rather than following the road.
3. Pass the Post Office and follow this road. With the church on your right, continue straight on.
4. Follow the road which bends right, signposted Soar Mill Cove Hotel.
5. Follow this road down to the ‘beach car park’. Turn left to enter car park.

From Dartmouth

1. Leave Dartmouth on the A3122, going straight on at the roundabout (onto Townstal Road).
2. After seven miles you will come to a T-junction by a garage at Halwell. Turn left, joining the A381.
3. Turn right at the roundabout to stay on the A381.
4. Turn right at the next roundabout, staying on the A381.
5. You’ll pass through the village of Churchstow. Half a mile later you’ll reach a roundabout. Turn left.
6. Turn right at the T-junction, signposted for Salcombe and Malborough.
7. When you come to Malborough, turn right when the road bends left.
1. Pass the Post Office and follow this road. With the church on your right, continue straight on.
2. Follow the road which bends right, signposted Soar Mill Cove Hotel.
8. Follow this road down to the ‘beach car park’. Turn left to enter the car park.


Holiday cottages near Soar Mill Cove

4 Ocean Reach
Bolberry | sleeps 4
Dog-friendly? Yes

4 Ocean Reach in Bolberry near Soar Mill Cove

Looking for a romantic break or couples retreat? 4 Ocean Reach is a modern holiday home nestled amongst stunning countryside. From your door, you’re just a stone’s throw away from the South West Coast Path, so you can reach Soar Mill Cove Beach within a beautiful 30-minute walk. Benefitting from its close proximity to the Oceans Restaurant and Bar, you can make the most of indulging in delicious local food without the hassle of having to cook for yourself.

Discover more about 4 Ocean Reach here.

4 Thornlea Mews
Hope Cove | sleeps 4
Dog-friendly? Yes

4 Thornlea Mews holiday cottage in Hope Cove, near Soar Mill Cove

4 Thornlea Mews is a charming cottage in the traditional fishing village of Hope Cove. Lovely and cosy, this relaxed, bright and airy property is ideal for a beach holiday with your pooch. Enjoy endless barbecues whilst relaxing in the large garden, or spend your time exploring South Devon’s stunning coastline.

Click here to find out more, or to book your break today.


Here at Coast & Country Cottages we offer over 400 holiday properties in South Devon, so you’ll be spoilt for choice when choosing your home-from-home in this Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Explore our collection of South Devon holiday cottages.