The best beaches around the holiday hotspot of Devon.
Saunton Sands
This glorious 3 mile stretch of sand is a top spot for surfers as well as a great family beach and it’s dog friendly too. It’s backed by the Braunton Burrows sand dunes a UNESCO Designated Biosphere Reserve due to its rare plants. There’s surf, deckchair and beach hut hire as well as a seasonal restaurant, The Beachside Grill.
Woolacombe
This multi award-winning surfing and family beach has three miles of golden sands and there’s plenty of room to find a quiet spot. The village provides all facilities and, above the sand dunes on Marine Drive, there’s also the Porthole, a great little cabin serving snacks made using local produce. Dogs are welcome, with some restrictions in the summer months.
Exmouth
Promenade along the two mile stretch of beach from the marina to Orcombe Point, the beginning of the UNESCO Jurassic Coast World Heritage site. Exmouth is perfect for families, with its traditional seaside attractions and plenty of food offerings and it’s a good place for every kind of watersport, for both beginners and the experienced. Try a Stuart Line scenic wildlife boat trip too.
Blackpool Sands
A backdrop of lush greenery and pine trees give this south coast beach a unique Mediterranean-feeling atmosphere. It’s perfect for families (but not dogs which are banned during the summer), and has a new beachside takeaway offering all-day snacks, including breakfasts, with a cosy indoor spot to eat if you choose. A beach shop with a good selection of watersports equipment is due to open this summer.
Goodrington Sands
This English Riviera beach offers a wealth of activities and watersport adventures for families and a large stretch of beautiful sand. Hire a pedalo and relax on the sea or ride the amazing waterslides at Splashdown Quaywest waterpark. At low tide go rockpooling – after a visit to the Seashore Centre. Dogs are banned on the Sorth Sands end of the beach in summer.
