There are many places within the UK that make you second guess whether or not you’ve been transported to another part of the world, due to the natural beauty and tropical climes. This is no exception when it comes to some of the many beaches to be found on the Devonshire coast.
With this being said, we wanted to share with you a selection of glorious Devon beaches that hold the power to transport you abroad with their natural beauty. A mere 3 hours drive from Oxfordshire, it offers a seaside alternative to the lush Cotswolds for a UK break.
So, whether you’re visiting for the day or having a staycation within a hotel in Devon, you’ll know exactly which beaches to head to for golden sand and rock pools on your doorstep.
Babbacombe Beach
Located in the northern part of Torquay on the south coast, Babbacombe Beach was once known for its tales of pirate adventures. Now, it’s known even more for its beautiful beach and sandy shores ideal for sandcastle building, as well as its clear waters, making it the most idyllic location for a spot of sea fishing as well as diving.
As the beach is backed by high cliffs, which are covered by a dense forest, if you want to avoid the steep climb from the car to the beach, you can catch The Babbacombe Cliff Railway down the 300ft cliffs.
Dogs – Your furry friends are welcome all year round – in fact, they’ll be happy to hear how Babbacombe Beach has been deemed one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Devon!
Lifeguard – There’s no lifeguard cover within this stretch of beach.
Postcode – TQ1 3RT
Woolacombe
Classed as one of Britain’s best beaches, this three-mile-long stretch of beach is a must when visiting the north Devon coast.
With unbroken Atlantic breaker waves rolling towards the shore, this is one of the best surfing beaches. And with it being three miles long, there’s plenty of room for bodyboarders, paddleboarders and swimmers alike, to join in on the action amongst the waves.
If you’d prefer to stay on land, the sands here are wide and flat, perfect for sandcastle building, beach games, running or simply relaxing as you watch the clouds drift by and enjoy the British sunshine.
Dogs – There are restrictions between 1st April and the first Monday in November.
Lifeguard – Cover during the holiday season. Always best to double-check the RNLI website before visiting.
Postcode – EX34 7BA
Saunton Sands
Now, what could be better than a sandy beach stretching 3.5 miles with Sand dunes to explore and clear waters? Especially in the glorious sunshine? With impressive waves rolling their way towards the shore, this beautiful beach draws in many surfers and water sports enthusiasts right the way through the year.
This is a go-to spot for all holidaymakers, especially those travelling with their furry friends, as Saunton Sands welcomes dogs all year round, so you can explore the long stretch of beach and grassy cliffs with your trusty companion.
Whether you come with your partner, friends or children, there are hours of exploring to be had here, especially within the dune system. There are local shops nearby, showers and water sports equipment hire as well as restaurants for when you’re feeling peckish!
Dogs – As mentioned, dogs are welcome to come along for a beach day – however, there are certain parts of the beach they’re not permitted to go, so please look for signs as to where and where not to take your furry friend along the beach.
Lifeguard – There is no lifeguard cover within this stretch of beach.
Postcode – EX33 2NU (this is a large carpark location, with the beach just a short walk away).
So, have we inspired you to take a trip along the Devonshire coast this summer? If not, here are some more options for the best beaches in Devon for sandy beaches and more.
- Bantham Beach – popular with surfers and families
- Blackpool Sands – sheltered bay with clear turquoise water
- Bigbury-on-Sea – iconic beach with views of Burgh Island
- Croyde Bay – renowned for its excellent surfing conditions
- Exmouth Beach – long stretch of sand and shingle with views across the estuary at the start of the Jurassic coast
- Sidmouth Beach – picturesque pebble beach with rock pools and cliffs
- Teignmouth Beach – traditional seaside resort with a long promenade
- Slapton Sands – unspoilt shingle beach with a nature reserve at one end
