Beaches
South Devon and the South Hams is renowned for its abundance of sandy and shingle beaches, all within easy reach of the principle towns of Kingsbridge, Salcombe and Dartmouth. Many have parking nearby or are conveniently connected by year-round or seasonal ferries to nearby towns. Here’s a selection for you to choose from.
Thurlestone / South Milton Sands
Wonderful, sandy beaches providing the opportunity to go rockpooling amongst the surrounding reefs or simply laze in the sun enjoying the view towards Thurlestone Rock. Dog-friendly with WCs and refreshments nearby, there is also the opportunity to hire kayaks and stand-up paddleboards directly from the beach.
Bigbury Beach
Depending on the tide, you can either walk or take a sea-tractor ride across the causeway to Burgh Island, home to the iconic Art Deco hotel of the same name. A popular spot for surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing, the beach is also a hit with families, having access to WCs and café. Restricted access for dogs 1st May to 30th September.
Bantham Beach
A great place to park up for the day and enjoy the fine sand and shallow waters along with refreshments from the pop-up beach café, the village stores or the local pub. Join the surfers or fire up a BBQ as the perfect end to a sunny day. WCs nearby; restricted access for dogs 1st May to 30th September.
Hope Cove
Two beaches flank this popular fishing village, and provide safe, sheltered swimming for young children and adults alike. Break up the day with a leisurely stroll around the gift shops and galleries in the village, stopping off for lunch or a takeaway from the wide choice of eateries available. Dogs on leads on Harbour Beach only from 1st May to 30th September.
Salcombe Beaches
Choose from South Sands (accessible from Salcombe via the South Sands passenger ferry), North Sands (parking nearby or a short walk from Salcombe), East Portlemouth (passenger ferry from Salcombe) or Millbay (National Trust-managed parking nearby). These beautiful sandy beaches provide some spectacular views of the estuary coastline and Salcombe, and some offer a variety of watersports and refreshment options.
North Sands is completely submerged at high tide so check before you travel. All have WCs and are dog-friendly (prohibited at South Sands, 1st May to 30th September).
Torcross / Slapton Sands
A spectacular swathe of shingle beach which shelves steeply into the sea. Enjoy far-reaching views of the coastline towards Dartmouth or a walk around Slapton Ley nature reserve which runs parallel to the beach and is home to a multitude of freshwater bird species. Ample parking and conveniences at intervals along the beach, and refreshments at Torcross. Dog-friendly.
