Devon’s Best Beaches

Devon is blessed with some stunning beaches that offer delightful walks, particularly in the spring when the weather is mild and nature is coming back to life. Here are some of the best beaches in Devon for spring walks:

Woolacombe Beach:

• Description: Woolacombe Beach is a three-mile-long sandy beach with a sweeping bay and views out to Lundy Island. It offers beautiful scenery and plenty of space to wander. The nearby sand dunes and rock pools are worth exploring.

• Parking: Nearest car park is located at Marine Drive, Woolacombe, EX34 7DL.

• Dog Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on certain parts of the beach year-round, but there are restrictions during the peak season (May to September) where dogs may be limited to certain areas.

• Swimming options: Yes, but it's advisable to check local signage for any safety warnings or lifeguard information.

  Saunton Sands:

  • Description: Saunton Sands is a vast stretch of sandy beach backed by impressive sand dunes that provide sheltered walking routes. It offers beautiful views of Braunton Burrows and is a great spot for wildlife watching.

  • Parking: The main car park is located at Saunton Sands Beach, Braunton, EX33 1LQ.

  • Dog Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on the beach year-round but are restricted to certain areas during the summer months.

  • Swimming options: Yes, but caution is advised due to strong currents, and it's recommended to swim between the designated flags when lifeguards are present.

  Croyde Bay:

  • Description: Croyde Bay is known for its excellent surfing conditions and charming village. The sandy beach is surrounded by cliffs and offers stunning views of the coastline. It's an ideal spot for coastal walks and exploring rock pools.

  • Parking: There are several car parks in the village of Croyde, with the largest located at Moor Lane, Croyde, EX33 1PG.

  • Dog Friendly: Yes, but there are seasonal restrictions during the peak months (May to September), and dogs may be restricted to certain areas.

  • Swimming options: Yes, but swimmers should be aware of strong currents and potential hazards, especially at low tide.

  Blackpool Sands:

  • Description: Blackpool Sands is a picturesque shingle beach with clear blue waters, surrounded by wooded cliffs. It offers a tranquil setting for a spring walk, with opportunities for swimming and beachcombing.

  • Parking: The beach has its own large car park located at Blackpool Sands, Dartmouth, TQ6 0RG.

  • Dog Friendly: No, dogs are not allowed on the beach from May to September.

  • Swimming options: Yes, the beach offers safe and clean swimming conditions with lifeguards on duty during the summer months.

  Bantham Beach:

  • Description: Bantham Beach is situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and offers stunning views of the coastline. It has golden sands and is surrounded by sand dunes and rocky cliffs, making it an ideal spot for exploring and enjoying the scenery.

  • Parking: The nearest car park is located at Bantham Cross, Bantham, TQ7 3AN.

  • Dog Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed year-round but must be kept on a lead in certain areas during the peak season.

  • Swimming options: Yes, but swimmers should be aware of strong currents and potential hazards, especially near the river mouth.

  Hope Cove:

  • Description: Hope Cove boasts two beautiful beaches surrounded by cliffs and rock formations. It offers scenic walks along the sandy shores and stunning views of the rugged coastline. The village of Hope Cove is charming and worth exploring.

  • Parking: There are several car parks in Hope Cove village, with one located at Inner Hope, Hope Cove, TQ7 3HH.

  • Dog Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed year-round but may be restricted to certain areas during the summer months.

  • Swimming options: Yes, but swimmers should be cautious of strong currents and tidal conditions, especially near the headlands.