Discover Devon's Best Beaches

Devon, located in southwest England, is unique for its two distinct coastlines and is home to some of the finest beaches in England.

The southern coast of Devon, particularly in resort towns like Torquay and Exmouth, is known for its sandy beaches, while the north coast is characterized by rugged headlands and bays, with notable beaches like Woolacombe and Westward Ho! Devon is a perfect destination for water activities such as surfing and kayaking, as well as for family seaside vacations.

1. Exmouth Beach, South Devon

Exmouth, a popular seaside resort town, offers a variety of beach experiences. The main beach, Blenny Beach, is a two-mile stretch of sand ideal for families due to its shallow waters and rockpools at low tide. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy kitesurfing, bodyboarding, and paddleboarding, with equipment rentals available along the beach.

What's Nearby? The promenade and the South West Coast Path offer off-beach activities, while the town of Exmouth provides shopping, dining, and entertainment.

2. Tunnels Beaches, Ilfracombe, North Devon

In Ilfracombe, Tunnels Beaches is a unique seaside spot with a small entrance fee. Named for the four tunnels carved into the cliff-face, this shingle beach offers rockpools and a large tidal pool at low tide. It's also a popular venue for weddings and events.

Guided tours in Devon

3. Paignton Sands, Paignton, South Devon

Paignton Sands, part of the English Riviera, is a family-friendly beach with a pier featuring arcades and rides. The beach, including adjacent Preston Sands, offers ample space for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

4. Bigbury-on-Sea Beach, Kingsbridge, South Devon

Bigbury-on-Sea Beach, set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is the largest sand beach on Devon's south coast. It's favored by families and surfers, and nearby Burgh Island is accessible via a causeway or sea tractor.

5. Woolacombe Beach, Woolacombe, North Devon

Woolacombe Beach, stretching for three miles, is a hit with families and surfers alike. The beach is dog-friendly and has facilities like a lifeguard station and food options in Woolacombe village.

6. Torre Abbey Sands, Torquay, South Devon

Torre Abbey Sands in Torquay is known for its soft red sand and clean, shallow waters. It's close to seafront attractions and has amenities like washrooms and deckchair rentals.

7. Sidmouth Beach, Sidmouth, South Devon

Sidmouth Beach, framed by red cliffs, offers a mix of shingle and sand and is close to the town's amenities. It's ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and rockpooling.

8. Jacob's Ladder Beach, Sidmouth, South Devon

Jacob's Ladder Beach, quieter than other Devon beaches, is accessible via the South West Coast Path, a staircase from Connaught Gardens, or a steep pathway from Peak Hill Road.

9. Budleigh Salterton Beach, South Devon

Budleigh Salterton Beach is a pebble beach nestled between cliffs, offering a tranquil atmosphere with a promenade lined with old homes.

10. Saunton Sands, Saunton, North Devon

Saunton Sands is a three-mile sandy beach backed by dunes, popular for swimming, surfing, and exploring the local wildlife.

11. Westward Ho! Beach, North Devon

Westward Ho! Beach is a wide, sandy beach with lifeguard services and nearby Northam Burrows Country Park, ideal for bird-watching and water sports.

12. Sea Swimming in Plymouth, South Devon

Plymouth offers sea swimming spots like East Tinside Beach and Devils' Point at Royal William Yard, with dedicated swim zones marked by buoys.