Devon Beaches
The people of Devon have long claimed that their beaches are among some of the best in the world, and, with 16 of them awarded blue flag status for their health and safety standards, facilities, water quality, management, and public education programs, it’s hardly surprising they make these claims.
The majority of the blue flag beaches in the Devon area stretch along the South Coast, with a few in the north of the county. The beaches here are a mix of sand and shingle, some of which lay in coves, while others are backed by cliffs, or lay in areas of outstanding natural beauty.
One of the most unique beaches in the county lies to the North in the town of Ilfracombe. The Tunnels Beach is an area reached by four tunnels, which lead down to a coastline full of coves, and a tidal pool area, which is popular with children and families. Nearby Woolacombe Beach and its three mile stretch of sand, is a favourite with water sports fanatics who enjoy surfing, sailing, and canoeing in the area. A bit further along the coast is Westward Ho, near Bideford, which is backed by Northam Burrows Country Park, and famed for its rows of traditional beach huts.
Moving down to the South, there’s the South Hams area of Devon, which has four blue flag beaches. Bantham Beach is known as an idyllic spot ideal for families and surfing, while the sand and shingle beach at Bigbury allows access to Burgh Island at lowtide, which has a pub and hotel. There’s also Blackpool Sands, which lies in a cove flanked by wooded cliffs, and has seasonal café/lifeguard facilities, and finally, Challaborough Beach. This beach lies in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and is known for its coastal walks, rock pools, and occasional surf competitions.
The Exeter/Exmouth area also has a small cluster of beaches surrounding it, including Dawlish Warren, and Sandy Bay. Sandy Bay is privately owned by a nearby holiday park, and is ideal for swimming and family beach trips, and while Dawlish Warren is also ideal for families, this area is mainly sand dunes, and better equipped with amusements and cafe facilities. There’s also a harbour and nature reserve nearby.
Preston Beach, and Goodrington Beach are located in the popular coastal resort of Paignton, the former being one of the biggest and best equipped beaches in Devon. Preston Beach has a traditional seaside pier, crazy golf, and a busy harbour offering boat trips along the coast. There are also events throughout the summer on Paignton Green, while at Goodrington Beach, the main attractions are the Dartmouth Steam Railway, a Seashore Centre, and the Quaywest Waterpark.
For something more picturesque, head to Breakwater, a small shingle beach next to Brixham Harbour, which is popular with divers, has many harbourside facilities, and easy access to the town. Further along the coast between Brixham and Paignton is Broadsands Beach, with its water-ski lane, views of Torbay, and safe shallow waters for swimming.
Finally, there are a couple of blue flag beaches surrounding the popular resort of Torquay, namely Oddicombe, accessed via a cliff railway, and Meadfooot, a popular beach with those wanting a quieter day out.
Facilities, disabled access, equipment hire, parking, and other visitor attractions will vary from beach to beach, but as Blue Flag Beaches, all those mentioned in this article will provide a good quality beach holiday/trip during your visit to Devon.
