Can't fly? Discover Devon's Dramatic Coastline!
I’m here to tell you, that you don’t need to go abroad… Devon has it all! From secluded coves only accessible by foot to sweeping golden sands buzzing with surfers and families, Devon’s best beaches offer an incredible diversity of coastal escapes. Whether you’re planning a peaceful retreat, an action-packed water sports adventure, or a classic bucket-and-spade family day out, this guide is organised by region and category and will help you discover your perfect stretch of sand or pebbles.
North Devon’s Best Beaches: Surf, Sand & Wild Coastlines
Famed for its Atlantic swells and dramatic cliffs, North Devon is home to some of Devon’s best beaches for surfing, hiking, and untamed beauty.
Hidden Gems: Secluded Spots & Wild Swims
For those willing to venture off the beaten path, these lesser-known beaches offer tranquillity and untouched scenery—but be prepared for a climb!
- Wild Pear Beach: Tucked beneath Combe Martin’s cliffs, this dog-friendly cove has a relaxed naturist vibe and crystal-clear water. The steep zigzag path keeps crowds away—pack sturdy shoes!
- Broadsands Beach: A turquoise sheltered cove accessible by 250 steps (or kayak). Worth the effort for a secluded picnic.
- Speke’s Mill Mouth: More waterfall than beach, this rugged spot wows photographers with its 60ft cascade. Not for swimming, but perfect for adventurers.
- Lee Bay: A peaceful pebble beach between Woolacombe and Ilfracombe, ideal for rock pooling. Watch for strong currents.
Surf & Sand: Devon’s Best Waves
Devon’s best beaches for surfing the north coast, where Atlantic swells deliver consistent breaks.
- Croyde Beach: A UK surf hotspot with powerful waves (beginners: take lessons!). National Trust members park free.
- Woolacombe: Three miles of golden sand with waves for all levels. Don’t miss neighbouring beaches: Barricade, Combesgate and Grunta (Checking tide times is essential!)
- Putsborough Sands: Woolacombe’s quieter neighbor, perfect for long beach walks. Pricey summer parking.
Family-Friendly Favourites
Safe swimming and easy access define these North Devon picks.
- Westward Ho!: A classic with rock pools, arcades, and fossil-rich pebble ridges. Yes, the exclamation mark is real!
- Appledore & Instow: Linked by ferry, these villages offer crabbing, dunes, and maritime history. Charm overload.
- Saunton Sands: Spacious and stress-free, with deckchair hires and a beach café. Three miles of gentle waves, backed by UNESCO dunes. Ideal for beginners and families.
Dog-Friendly Picks
These shores welcome wagging tails year-round (or with seasonal restrictions—check before you go)
- Wild Pear & Broadsands: Year-round access, but steep paths demand patience.
- Lee Bay: No restrictions—just cliffs and rocks to explore.
South Devon’s Best Beaches: Breathtaking Landscapes to Idyllic Coves
While North Devon gets the surf cred, South Devon counters with sheltered coves, subtropical gardens, and some of England’s most picturesque seaside towns. Whether you’re after family-friendly sands, kayaking in turquoise waters, or coastal walks steeped in history, this stretch delivers.
Coastal Walks & Hidden Charms
Lace up your boots and uncover Devon’s quieter coastal wonders, where history, dramatic landscapes, and secret coves reward the curious.
- Slapton Sands & Torcross: This stretch shingle and pebble beach has been designated as an “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty” and is a haven for wildlife. Walk the A379 for epic views.
- Hope Cove: Two sandy gems: Inner Hope (rock pools and a tiny harbour) and Mouthwell Sands (backed by rust-red cliffs). The coastal path to Bolt Tail offers jaw-dropping sunset views. Eat at: The Cove Café’s legendary fajitas.
- Beer Beach: A fishing village dream with pastel cottages and limestone cliffs. Hire a boat, peek into the smugglers’ caves, or sip a pint at the Barrel of Beer pub.
Adventure & Water Sports
Thrill-seekers, take note: these coastal spots deliver heart-pumping activities, from coasteering to tidal island explorations—all with stunning backdrops!
- Salcombe: Kayak to hidden beaches or hike cliff paths. Park early at Creek car park!
- Blackpool Sands: Pebbly but Mediterranean-feeling, with coasteering and kayaks. Parking can be expensive!
- Bigbury-on-sea & Burgh Island: Stunning wide sandy beach with shallow waters. Walk at low tide or ride the sea tractor. Adventurers love the scramble to the summit for panoramic views. Don’t forget to check out the Smugglers’ pub.
Seaton & Axmouth Beach: Seaton’s pebble beach is a paddleboarding hotspot, while Axmouth offers wilder vibes (and a naturist section!). Kids love drifting down the river on inflatables to where it meets the sea. (I have fond memories of doing this as a kid!)
Family Favourites: Safe Swimming & Seaside Fun
- Exmouth Beach: Two miles of golden sand with paddleboarding and crazy golf. (Dog restrictions April–October.)
- Dawlish Warren: A Blue Flag winner with sand dunes and a nature reserve, with a nature reserve and Brunel’s viaduct. Retro arcades add charm.
- Torquay’s Beaches:
The English Riviera’s star boasts palm-fringed sands (like Torre Abbey Sands) and calm waters ideal for paddling. Don’t miss:
Babbacombe Beach: A cliff-backed cove reached by vintage funicular railway.
Oddicombe Beach: Red sandstone cliffs and a quirky beach café.
Dog-Friendly Picks
Four-legged friends deserve beach days too!
- Hope Cove: No restrictions on Mouthwell Sands.
- Slapton Sands: Dogs welcome year-round (except near the lagoon’s bird reserves).
- Seaton: Dogs allowed on Axmouth’s naturist section (if they don’t blush!).
Your Devon Beach Adventure Awaits...
From the wild, wave-lashed shores of North Devon to the sheltered coves and subtropical charm of the south, Devon’s best beaches offer something for every traveller—whether you’re chasing surf, building sandcastles, or hiking coastal paths with a four-legged friend. With this guide in hand, you’re ready to explore the dramatic coastline that makes Devon one of Britain’s most beloved seaside destinations.
Want to discover even more of the South West?
Dive deeper with my Road Trip South West – the ultimate ‘No Fuss’ guide . Packed with incredible locations, stress-saving hacks, and practical tips, this in-depth guidebook covers everything you need for an unforgettable road trip across Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, and Dorset—from handpicked itineraries and budgeting advice to the best hidden gems. I’ve done the hard work, so you don’t have to!
Ready to hit the road? Click below to grab your copy and start planning!
