Whether you’re after dramatic clifftops, soft golden sand, secret smugglers’ coves or a classic family day out, Devon’s coastline really delivers. Here are my ten favourite beaches in Devon so far – some well-known, others tucked away and less travelled.
1. Dawlish Warren Beach
This one’s a classic. Long, flat, sandy – perfect for a barefoot wander or setting up a base with a windbreak and picnic. There’s plenty of space, even on a busy summer weekend. The nature reserve nearby is a real bonus too – you can spot all sorts of birds on a quiet walk if you head away from the main drag.
Getting to Dawlish Warren beach
You can get the train there direct from Exeter, or if you’re travelling by car, here’s a map
2. Ness Cove, Shaldon
If you like your beaches with a bit of drama and mystery, Ness Cove is the one. You reach it through a tunnel cut into the red cliffs (once used by smugglers!), and it opens out into a sheltered cove with towering rock walls. The tide comes right in, so time your visit well – but when it’s out, it’s peaceful and atmospheric.
Getting to Ness Cove, Shaldon
If you’re up for a walk, you can get the train to Teignmouth and walk across the bridge – if not, and you’re in the car, there are plenty of spaces nearby – here’s a map.
3. Bantham Beach
Bantham has a wild, surfy charm. There’s always a buzz around the car park and burger shack, but head left and it opens up beautifully. The views across to Burgh Island are stunning, especially as the sun goes down. The shallow waters are great for paddling, and the dunes behind are fun for the kids to explore.
Getting to Bantham Beach
Best reached by car, there’s a car park here
4. Beer Beach
A working beach that still feels relaxed and welcoming. The white chalk cliffs give it a unique look, and the colourful boats pulled up on the shingle make it feel like a step back in time. Grab a crab sandwich and sit with your feet in the pebbles while you watch the fishing boats.
Getting to Beer Beach
It’s a windy route by car, and tricky on a busy day, but well worth the visit. The car park in the centre of Beer is probably the best place to stop off.
5. Woolacombe Beach
This one’s big – really big. There’s space to breathe here even in the middle of summer. It’s regularly ranked among the best beaches in the UK, and I can see why. It’s got consistent surf, rock pools at either end, and a proper beach town vibe without being over the top.
Getting to Woolacombe Beach
Another one best reached by car – there’s plenty of parking here.
6. Blackpool Sands
Don’t be fooled by the name – it’s in South Devon and far removed from the northern resort. It’s a pebbly, turquoise dream with clean facilities, a great beach café and a peaceful feel. The water is usually calm and clear, and it feels like you could be in the Med on a good day.
Getting to Blackpool Sands in Devon
It’s not the largest car park so gets busy at the height of Summer – here’s a map!
7. Bigbury-on-Sea
Another great spot with Burgh Island views. When the tide is out, you can walk across the sandy causeway to the island. When it’s in, there’s a sea tractor! The beach itself is big and family-friendly, with rock pools, shallow water, and great soft sand.
Getting to Bigbury-on-Sea
Parking at Bigbury-on-Sea is right above the beach – here’s a map
8. Croyde Bay
If you’re into surfing, this is the one. But even if you’re not, Croyde has an energy that’s infectious. I love the rolling dunes, the dramatic headlands either side, and the great mix of families, surfers, and walkers all sharing the space. Best enjoyed with chips on the beach wall.
Getting to Croyde Bay
The most suitable parking at Croyde Bay, especially if you’re planning on doing a bit of hiking too, is the the National Trust car park – obviously free for NT members, you can find it here.
9. Sidmouth Beach
A more refined choice – but still beautiful. The red cliffs and Regency seafront give Sidmouth a timeless feel. It’s pebbly rather than sandy, but the prom is perfect for a stroll and it’s a good spot to just sit and watch the sea roll in.
Getting to Sidmouth Beach
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to parking at Sidmouth, which is lucky because it gets busy here in the Summer! Ham (West) car park is my favourite though, since it’s close to both the beach and the town. It’s obviously very popular, but I’ve never failed to find a space there! You can find it here.
10. Hope Cove
Tucked away and a bit of a hidden gem. Hope Cove has two beaches – the smaller one is my favourite. It’s quiet, safe, and has a postcard-perfect feel with thatched cottages nearby. The pub above the beach is a lovely place to end the day.
Getting to Hope Cove
Parking at Hope Cove can be tricky – there’s a car park here, but it gets busy in this small town, with lots of visitors coming for the scenery as well as the beach – be sure to arrive early!
Final Thoughts
There are so many more beaches in Devon I’ve still got on my list – from secret inlets to big sweeping bays. But these ten stood out not just for the scenery, but for the feel of the day I had there. I’ll keep exploring, so if you’ve got a favourite I haven’t listed, let me know and I’ll try to visit next!