The South West is famous for having some of the UK’s most iconic and beautiful coastline. And whilst Cornwall often takes the glory when it comes to listing the best beaches that the UK has to offer, Devon, its easterly neighbour, is also home to a fabulous array of its own.
Devon is famous for Exmoor and Dartmoor National Parks, but if you head to the coast you can while away your days in charming seaside towns or relaxing on secluded bays beneath towering cliffs.
Discover Devon's top beaches with our guide. Explore stunning coastlines, hidden coves, and family-friendly spots perfect for your next seaside adventure.
Blackpool Sands
First up is one of our favourite beaches in the whole of the UK. Blackpool Sands is a truly breathtaking coastal gem, that is in the shape of a quintessential tropical cove. Situated in South Devon, close to the incredible town of Dartmouth, Blackpool Sands is a Blue Flag beach that is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, tree-lined backdrop, and peaceful atmosphere. Surrounded by lush pine trees and rolling hills, this is a truly outstanding place to relax and unwind.
The beach itself is meticulously maintained and visitors can enjoy a range of water-based activities, from swimming and paddleboarding to kayaking, with equipment available for hire right on the beach. A stand-up paddle board inflation station makes life easier for paddlers, and there are even saunas to warm up after a cold sea dip - ideal for winter wild swimmers.
Though the beach is made of fine shingle rather than sand, a summer sandpit ensures children still have a place to dig and play. Families will appreciate the clean facilities, including toilets, showers, baby changing areas, and a beachfront café serving everything from snacks to hearty meals. Whether you’re exploring nearby woodland trails or relaxing on the shore, Blackpool Sands offers a truly magical coastal escape.
Here are some Coolstays near Blackpool Sands
Babbacombe Beach
Up next is Babbacombe Beach. Sitting in the northern part of Torquay, this marvellous beach offers a stunning retreat far from the hustle and bustle of the Torbay coastline. This picturesque crescent of shingle and sand is nestled beneath towering cliffs, with the calming sound of the sea gently lapping the shore. Surrounded by lush woodlands and charming 1930s villas, it feels like a hidden gem, offering a peaceful escape.
The beach is perfect for a variety of activities, from leisurely strolls along the shoreline to more adventurous pursuits like fishing, diving, and sailing. The stone breakwater provides an ideal spot for anglers hoping to catch something from the clear waters. For scuba diving enthusiasts, Babbacombe is renowned as a fantastic beginner-friendly site due to its sheltered aspect and clear, calm waters.
To access the beach, visitors can take the scenic Babbacombe Cliff Railway, a historic funicular that has been transporting guests since 1926. This makes reaching the beach a breeze, offering spectacular views of the bay as you descend the 300-foot cliffs.
What’s more, the beach sits just a pebble’s toss from the charming town of Torquay on the English Riviera. From strolling along its picturesque harbour and enjoying fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, to exploring the prehistoric wonders of Kents Cavern or relaxing on sandy beaches framed by palm trees, Torquay offers something for everyone.
Here are some Coolstays near Babbacombe Beach
Saunton Sands
Saunton Sands, located on North Devon's golden coast, is undoubtedly one of the region’s finest beaches, offering something for everyone. Spanning three-and-a-half miles of golden sand and framed by the impressive Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the beach is both beautiful and ecologically significant. Its long stretch of water makes it a perfect spot for swimmers and surfers alike, especially those who are beginners or intermediate surfers, as the waves here are more manageable compared to nearby Croyde Bay. It’s no wonder that even Robbie Williams chose Saunton Sands for the iconic video of his song Angels.
The beach is not only known for its stunning scenery but also for its accessibility. Saunton Sands is the only beach in North Devon to offer a Landeez all-terrain wheelchair, allowing people with mobility challenges to enjoy the beach and even venture into the shallows. With dog-friendly access year-round, it’s also a popular spot for pet owners, making it ideal for families with furry friends. Visitors can enjoy a range of food outlets, beach shops, and accessible facilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all. The scenic walks to Crow Point offer exceptional views of the coastline, making it a must-visit destination in Devon.
Here are some Coolstays near Saunton Sands
Bantham Beach
Bantham Beach is one of those places that just has it all – stunning views, tons of things to do, and a truly relaxing vibe. This beach is tucked away in the South Hams and has golden sands that seem to stretch forever, ensuring there’s plenty of space to sunbathe, play beach games, or just take a leisurely walk along the shore. Then, when the tide goes out, the receding water reveals a bunch of cool rock pools full of marine life – great for a bit of exploring, especially if you’ve got kids in tow!
If you’re into surfing, you’re in for a treat. Bantham’s consistent waves make it a popular spot for surfers, whether you’re just starting out or looking to catch some bigger waves. For a more relaxed vibe, the nearby River Avon is ideal for paddleboarding or kayaking, with calm waters and beautiful views all around.
And if you fancy a bit of a hike, Bantham’s also the perfect base for some amazing coastal walks. You can head along the South West Coast Path, taking in sweeping sea views and dramatic cliffs, or even walk across the causeway to Burgh Island at low tide. Oh, and don’t forget to keep an eye out for some local wildlife – you might even spot seals or dolphins in the water!
Here are some Coolstays near Bantham Beach
Woolacombe Beach
Woolacombe Beach is undoubtedly one of Devon’s crown jewels. Vast and sprawling, this huge and famous sandy beach is well-loved and offers up the quintessential day by the sea. With over two miles of sandy beach to explore and some rolling sand dunes and hills to wander, there’s lots to keep you busy. However, you’ll be forgiven for wanting to simply lounge about in the sunshine in peace. This is made all the more easy by the fact that, despite the beach's popularity, there’s always plenty of space to find your own patch of sand.
Surfers flock to Woolacombe too, thanks to its consistent Atlantic swells, making it one of North Devon’s premier surfing destinations. But it’s just as appealing for swimmers and paddleboarders, so whatever your watersport of choice, Woolacombe is the place for you. Located between Baggy Point and Morte Point, the beach is within walking distance of Woolacombe village, where charming shops, cafés, and accommodation options provide everything you need for a memorable stay.
Also, if you go to Woolacombe, you get an additional bonus beach! Just a short stroll north lies Barricane Beach, a hidden gem nestled between rugged rocks. Known for its exotic shells, brought in by Atlantic currents, Barricane is ideal for rock pooling, swimming, and relaxed coastal walks.
Here are some Coolstays near Woolacombe Beach
Mattiscombe Beach
Tucked away on the rugged South Devon coastline, Mattiscombe Beach - also known as Great Mattiscombe Sands - is one of the county’s best-kept secrets. This secluded gem is the ideal destination for those seeking peace, natural beauty, and a touch of adventure. It’s not the easiest beach to get to, and sits a short but steep two-kilometre walk from the Start Point Car Park. However, the walk rewards visitors with a breathtaking stretch of south-facing sand, framed by dramatic rock formations and the rolling countryside.
What sets Mattiscombe apart is its raw, unspoilt charm. With no nearby facilities, this beach attracts only the more adventurous beachgoers, making it perfect for people who appreciate tranquility over convenience. At low tide, a patchwork of sand and rock is revealed, perfect for paddling, sandcastle building, and quiet picnics. A small stream and waterfall add to the beach’s natural appeal, offering safe spots for children to play and explore.
Dog-friendly all year round, Mattiscombe is a favourite for walkers on the South West Coast Path and their four-legged companions. Wildlife enthusiasts will have the chance to spot grey seals - and even pups in early spring - or maybe even glimpse a basking shark fin in summer!
Here are some Coolstays near Mattiscombe
Beer Beach
If you’re looking for a break in Devon then you should seriously consider visiting the picturesque, chocolate-box village of Beer. This really is a place that exudes charm at every turn. The village is tucked away among rolling hills, with quaint homes dotting the slopes leading down to the fabulous beach. From the village, it’s a lovely walk to the beach, where a convenient car park makes it easy to reach this hidden gem.
Once at the beach, you’re greeted by the stunning limestone cliffs that frame both sides of the shingle shoreline, adding to the secluded and peaceful atmosphere. The water, crystal-clear and calm, laps gently against the stones, making it an ideal spot for families to relax and enjoy the scenery. And whilst this is no place for surfing, there’s something incredibly serene about this spot, perfect for unwinding and taking in the natural beauty.
If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to spot fishing boats launching directly from the shore - a charming sight that adds to the village’s maritime character. You can even hop on a mackerel fishing trip - an enjoyable way to spend a morning or afternoon at sea.
Here are some Coolstays near Beer Beach
Gara Rock Beach
If you're dreaming of a classic British beach day with an adventurous twist, Gara Rock Beach is the place to be. The beach is hidden away down a winding trail on a stretch of the stunning South West Coast Path. And whilst the walk there might give your calves a bit of a workout, once your toes hit that soft sand, you’ll feel immediately at peace.
Gara Rock offers a treasure trove of rock pools, secret caves, and even tunnels to explore, offering kids and grown ups something a little bit different. The beach is quiet too, far from the crowds of busier Devon beaches, making it a dreamy spot for a peaceful swim or a moment of zen with a book. Just keep an eye on the tides, especially if you're tempted to wander over to the smaller beach nearby – nature waits for no one!
With East Portlemouth, Mill Bay, and Elender Cove just around the corner, you can turn a beach visit into a whole coastal adventure. Pack your sandwiches, grab your camera, and soak up everything South Devon’s South Hams has to offer.
Locals will also tell you that a visit to Gara Rock isn’t complete without a trip to the historic town of Salcombe. With shops, cafes, restaurants, beaches, water sports, scenic walks, a National Trust house, and even a gin distillery, there’s something for everyone in Salcombe. And, you access the town via a scenic ferry ride, so what’s not to love?
Here are some Coolstays near Gara Rock Beach
