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East Portlemouth, Salcombe

Salcombe beaches offer sandy shores, turquoise waters and breathtaking sea and estuary views. With so many to choose from, all offering the perfect base to enjoy seaside activities, there isn’t anywhere quite like Salcombe’s scenic coastline. 

So, whether you are looking to swim in the sea, play ball games on the sand, or explore the rock pools, Salcombe is the perfect location for a beach day that everyone will enjoy!


Find out about a particular Salcombe Beach:


North Sands 

North Sands, Salcombe

North Sands is a beautiful cove with shallow waters, great for paddling with the children. Home to one of the most popular eateries found on any of the Salcombe beaches, North Sands is certainly a great haunt for foodies and families alike. Located an easy 15 minute scenic walk from central Salcombe, with views of the surrounding rolling hills, and Fort Charles ruins providing a stunning backdrop to your day by the sea.

Enjoy a fun afternoon relaxing on the beach whilst the children dip their toes in the water, before heading to the beachside café The Winking Prawn for a long lunch on the terrace, where you can enjoy something from the barbecue! Whether you fancy mouth-watering shell-on prawns, a delicious crab salad, or just a scrumptious Salcombe Dairy Ice Cream, you will not be disappointed.

North Sands is also one of the best Salcombe beaches for rock pooling – head towards Fort Charles at low tide to explore the pools and spot tiny fish and crustaceans, left stranded by the outgoing water.

Is North Sands dog-friendly?

Yes, North Sands is dog-friendly all year round. In fact, the beach is known as one of the most dog-friendly beaches in Devon!

For more information, read our North Sands Beach Guide.


South Sands

South Sands Beach, Salcombe

One sandy beach on from North Sands, near popular Overbeck’s Garden, is South Sands. The beautiful shore is one of the most popular beaches in South Devon thanks to its Blue Flag award, the un-spoilt clear blue waters and watersports opportunities.

Nestled within the cove, the beach is fairly sheltered from the sea winds, creating a little sun trap, perfect for families visiting the area. Parking can be limited, therefore most visitors make a day of it and arrive via the South Sands Ferry which runs to and from Salcombe town.

Is South Sands dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome seasonally from November to March.

Read our South Sands Guide to find out more.


Sunny Cove

Sunny Cove, Salcombe

The aptly named Sunny Cove is one of the best Salcombe beaches for a peaceful afternoon of sunshine! Accessible only from the water, or on foot from the South West Coast Path, this beautiful secluded beach looks out at the mouth of Salcombe Estuary – perfect for those looking to sun bathe whilst enjoying beautiful views across the water towards the other Salcombe beaches.

Is Sunny Cove dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome all year round.


Mill Bay and East Portlemouth

East Portlemouth, Salcombe

Situated on the opposite side of the estuary from Salcombe town, these beautiful sandy coves are some of the prettiest Salcombe beaches.

For a day of sand and sea to remember, why not buy a picnic of local food, including freshly baked bread and cakes from The Bake House, or delicious lunches from The Salcombe Delicatessen, before heading across the water on the frequent foot passenger ferry for a day at the beach. Relax on the fine sand, whilst the children play ball games, fly kites or search for shells and driftwood, ideal for making beach art when you return home!

Once you have visited this variety of Salcombe beaches, there a many more sandy coves in the surrounding area, either accessible on foot via the South West Coast Path, or just a short drive away. For more information about different beaches in South Devon read this article


Where to Stay in Salcombe

Woodwell, Salcombe - Self Catering Accommodation

Woodwell

8 Guests | 4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | Property ref: 995928

Located on peaceful Cliff Road, within easy reach of Salcombe’s waterfront and beaches, Woodwell offers the perfect luxury accommodation for families or small groups travelling together. On the ground floor are four boutique bedrooms, all with lovely estuary views and direct access (via French doors) to the stone terrace. Up on the first floor there is a spectacular and spacious open plan living accommodation boasting 180-degree views out to sea and across the estuary to the sandy beaches of Mill Bay and Sunny Cove.


35 The Salcombe, Salcombe - Self Catering Accommodation

35 The Salcombe

2 Guests | 1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | Property ref: 994990

Located in central Salcombe, on the idyllic waterfront. Residents have exclusive use of the private outdoor heated swimming pool (May-Sept), communal gardens, allocated parking space and a private mooring. 35 The Salcombe is a well presented and recently updated third floor flat, accessible via a lift, with double bed and open plan living area. Here French doors lead out to the balcony where guest can enjoy the spectacular views of the main anchorage, gardens, moorings, and sandy beaches at East Portlemouth.


Ginn Cottage, Salcombe - Self Catering Accommodation

Ginn Cottage

4 Guests | 2 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | Pets Allowed | Property ref: 995446

Ginn Cottage is a cosy and very well presented mid-terrace fisherman’s cottage, renovated and fully refurbished to a high standard throughout, and within a short walk of Salcombe town centre. The accommodation is divided cleverly over three storey’s and includes two beautifully furnished bedrooms, a family bathroom, and a very comfortable sitting room. This cute cottage is just a 2 minute walk to the popular Island Street, with it’s boutique shops, Salcombe Gin distillery, bar and galleries.


2 Hamstone Court, Salcombe - Self Catering Accommodation

2 Hamstone Court

6 Guests | 3 Bedroom | 3 Bathrooms | Property ref: 994937

A beautifully presented apartment situated just a 5-10 minute walk away from Salcombe’s famous waterfront, beaches, restaurants and boutique shops.

The property has three bedrooms, a large master bedroom with super-King size bed, en suite with a large walk in shower, and access to a second bedroom with bunk beds. The third bedroom also enjoys a super-King size bed and has the added benefit of doors which lead straight out onto the balcony. From the private balcony, guests can enjoy the magnificent uninterrupted views across to the sandy beaches of East Portlemouth.


Holiday cottages near Salcombe’s beautiful beaches

Whether you’re looking for a traditional coastal cottage, a country escape or a sea view property so close to the waters edge you can smell the fresh sea air from your bedside, Coast & Country Cottages offers an exquisite collection of over 500 holiday cottages in Salcombe and throughout South Devon.

Browse our handpicked holiday cottages, and start planning your next adventure today. Your perfect holiday awaits…

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