Discover the Natural Beauty of Devon's Beaches

Devon is celebrated for its breathtaking beaches, showcasing the remarkable natural beauty that captivates visitors from all corners of the globe. With a coastline that stretches for miles, Devon invites you to explore an exciting array of beach experiences—ranging from enchanting rugged coves adorned with majestic cliffs to sweeping sandy shores that are ideal for soaking up the sun and enjoying refreshing swims. Whether you're a beachcomber eager to unwind on warm sands, an adventurous spirit ready to dive into sparkling waters, or a nature lover wanting to soak in awe-inspiring views, Devon's beaches truly offer something special for everyone. Not sure where to go for a dog-friendly beach? Looking for surf ready waves in this picturesque corner of England? We've got you covered with the ultimate guide on Devon's beaches and coastline.

North Devon Beaches

Get ready to be inspired by the mesmerising beauty of North Devon's beaches! From the striking cliffs of Woolacombe to the stunning scenery of Croyde Bay, every beach in this region promises a truly unique and breathtaking experience. Many beaches boast expansive sandy stretches, perfect for water activities or simply unwinding under the sun. Whether you're an avid nature enthusiast, a water sports aficionado, or just looking for some serene relaxation, North Devon's beaches have something for you.

Saunton Sands

Saunton Sands is a breathtaking three-mile stretch of golden sand, nestled against the magnificent Braunton Burrows UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This beach is a family favourite, where gently sloping sands invite endless hours of paddling and water play. Ideal for walkers too, Saunton Sands offers stunning views of dunes and the Atlantic Ocean that will take your breath away! With convenient facilities such as a beach café, a surf shop for your ocean adventures, and ample parking, everything you need for an unforgettable day by the sea is right at your fingertips!

Postcode: EX33 2NU
Facilities: Beach shop, beach hut and deckchair hire, surf school and equipment hire, beachside restaurant
Parking: Pay-and-display car park
Lifeguards: None
Dogs: Dog-friendly year round

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Woolacombe Beach

Woolacombe Beach is a three-mile long stretch of golden sand backed by rolling sand dunes. It is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the UK, and even in the world. The beach is popular for surfing, swimming, and building sandcastles. The water quality is excellent, making it a safe and enjoyable place to swim. Additionally, there are plenty of amenities, including cafes, shops, and surf schools.

Postcode: EX34 7DJ
Facilities: Toilets, beachfront cafés, surf school and equipment hire, beach huts for hire
Parking: There are three main pay-and-display car parks a short walk from the beach.
Lifeguards: RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach in high season
Dogs: The beach is dog-friendly all year round, however, there are some restrictions in place during peak seasons depending on which part of the beach you visit. From April-September, no dogs are allowed on the north end of the beach from The Esplanade to the stream. From May-September, dogs must be kept on leads from the stream to Mill Rock. After this point, there are no restrictions.

Explore our selection of Woolacombe holiday cottages.

Croyde Bay

Croyde Bay is a picturesque beach with stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and headlands. The beach is renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, with consistent waves that attract surfers of all levels. The village of Croyde is charming, with traditional thatched cottages and quaint pubs.

Postcode: EX33 1NZ
Facilities: Toilets, beach cafés and ice cream parlours
Parking: There are pay-and-display car parks at the north end and south end of the beach
Lifeguards: RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach on a seasonal basis
Dogs: dogs are not allowed on the main section of Croyde Bay beach between May and September, but there is a designated dog-friendly area to the right of the beach where dogs are welcome all year round.

Discover our Croyde cottages for your next getaway.

South Devon Beaches along the South West Coast Path

The southern part of this coastal paradise is home to some of the most idyllic beaches you’ll ever come across. From the hidden coves of Bigbury-on-Sea to the golden sands of Blackpool Sands, each beach in South Devon holds its own charm and beauty. Imagine spending your days basking in the sunshine, building sandcastles, or exploring rock pools teeming with marine life. South Devon’s beaches are a true gem waiting to be discovered, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and natural beauty.

Bantham Beach & Burgh Island

Bantham Beach is a popular destination in South Devon due to its stunning sandy shores and crystal-clear waters. It is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as surfing and paddleboarding. The beach is also surrounded by beautiful sand dunes and offers breathtaking views of the iconic Burgh Island.

Postcode: TQ7 3AN
Facilities: Toilets, showers, beach café, beach shop, surf school and a pub nearby
Parking: Large pay-and-display car park
Lifeguards: RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach on a seasonal basis
Dogs: There is a seasonal dog ban in place from May-September on the main beach. The beach is dog-friendly at all other times.

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Blackpool Sands

Blackpool Sands is a Blue Flag beach located near Dartmouth in South Devon. The beach is known for its picturesque setting, with clear blue waters and golden sand surrounded by lush green hills. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the calm waters, as well as relaxing on the beach or exploring the nearby coastal walks.

Postcode: TQ6 0RG
Facilities: Toilets, café and restaurant, beach shop, kayak and paddleboard hire
Parking: There is a large pay-and-display car park
Lifeguards: RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach on a seasonal basis
Dogs: There is a seasonal dog ban in place from May-September on the main beach. The beach is dog-friendly at all other times.

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Slapton Sands

Slapton Sands is a long stretch of shingle beach located between the towns of Dartmouth and Kingsbridge. The beach is popular for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing day by the sea. Visitors can enjoy swimming, beachcombing, and birdwatching, as well as exploring the nearby Slapton Ley Nature Reserve.

Postcode: TQ7 2EA
Facilities: Toilets at Torcross (southern end) and Strete Gate (northern end). Beachside café and a pub at Torcross (southern end)
Parking: There are two main pay-and-display car parks right by the beach: Slapton Sands Memorial Car Park (middle stretch) and Strete Gate (northern end)
Lifeguards: RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach on a seasonal basis
Dogs: The beach is dog-friendly all year round.

Dog-friendly beaches in Devon

South Devon’s beaches aren’t just a treat for humans – they welcome our furry friends with open arms too. Picture basking in the sun with your four-legged companion by your side, enjoying the sound of the waves and the salty sea breeze. From long stretches of sandy shores to rocky coves ideal for exploration, there’s a dog-friendly beach for every pooch to frolic in. For those who prefer a different terrain, there are also long pebble beaches that provide a unique and picturesque setting for a day out with your dog. So grab your pup’s leash, a frisbee for some fetch, and head to South Devon’s dog-friendly beaches for unforgettable moments filled with joy and wagging tails.

Bantham Beach

Located on the South Devon coast, Bantham Beach is a popular choice for dog owners due to its expansive sandy shores and clear waters. Dogs are permitted at Bantham throughout the year, but there are important restrictions. Between 1st May and 30th September, dogs are not allowed on the main beach. However, there is a large sandy area beside the estuary, otherwise known as River Beach, where your four-legged friend is welcome at all times of year. The beach is also surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a picturesque spot for a leisurely stroll.

Saunton Sands Beach

Situated on the North Devon coast, Saunton Sands Beach is a long stretch of golden sand that is perfect for dogs to run and play. The beach is dog-friendly all year round and even has designated zones where dogs are allowed off-lead. With stunning views of the rolling hills and the nearby Braunton Burrows, Saunton Sands is a must-visit for dog owners looking for a beach holiday.

Beer Beach

Nestled in the charming fishing village of Beer in East Devon, Beer Beach is a dog-friendly destination that offers a mix of pebbles and sand. Dogs are welcome on the eastern beach all year round, providing a great opportunity for a seaside adventure with your four-legged companion. Dogs are not allowed on the western beach from 1st May to 30th September, but are allowed outside of this. Visitors can also explore the scenic Jurassic Coast nearby, making Beer Beach a fantastic spot for both humans and dogs to enjoy.

Surf Beaches in Devon

Get ready to ride the waves and experience the thrill of surfing at Devon’s top surf beaches! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner eager to catch your first wave, Devon’s coastline offers a variety of surf spots for everyone to enjoy. From gentle breaks perfect for learning to challenging waves for the more experienced surfers, there’s a surf beach waiting for you. Many of these surf beaches are accessible via the South West Coast Path, offering stunning views and a chance to explore the rugged coastline.

Croyde Bay

Croyde Bay is one of the most popular surfing spots in Devon, known for its consistent waves and sandy beach. Surfers of all levels can enjoy the waves here, from beginners to more experienced surfers. The stunning scenery and relaxed atmosphere make it a must-visit for any surfing enthusiast.

Woolacombe Beach

Woolacombe Beach is another top surfing spot in Devon, with miles of golden sandy beach and excellent waves for surfing. The beach is also surrounded by picturesque cliffs and dunes, providing a beautiful backdrop for a day of surfing. Woolacombe is great for beginners looking to improve their skills and more advanced surfers looking for challenging waves.

Saunton Sands

Saunton Sands is a wide sandy beach with excellent surfing conditions, particularly when there is a good swell. The beach faces west, meaning it is exposed to the prevailing winds, creating ideal conditions for surfing. Saunton Sands is known for its consistent waves, making it a popular spot for surfers of all levels.

Bantham Beach

Bantham Beach is a picturesque surfing spot located on the South Devon coast. The beach offers great waves for surfing, as well as stunning views of the nearby Burgh Island. Bantham Beach is popular with surfers and beachgoers alike, making it a vibrant place to visit. The beach is also known for its strong rip currents, so it is best suited for more experienced surfers.

Looking for more inspiration?

With Devon's stunning beaches waiting to be explored, there is no better place to soak up the sun and enjoy the sand and surf. Whether you're looking for tranquil coves or bustling seaside towns, Devon has it all. Be sure to check out our selection of Devon holiday cottages for more inspiration on planning your next beach getaway. The perfect beach day awaits!

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