Whether you are a fan of shingle or golden sands, we have found some of Devon’s best beaches to visit...

Croyde Bay beach

Situated between Woolacombe and Saunton Sands is Croyde Bay, a true surfer’s delight with great waves and a beautiful shoreline. When the tide is out, hang around by the rock pools and see what creatures you can find. For a refreshing drink visit The Thatch, a pub with character, a great selection of drinks and a beautiful outdoor seating area. Dogs allowed on the beach from October to April.

Woolacombe beach

A family favourite has to be Woolacombe’s stunning 3 miles of golden sands stretching along Devon’s north coast. Sit by the vibrant beach huts and enjoy a BBQ with a few cheeky drinks in the sun with loved ones or relax in the deck chairs and soak up the sun! The beach is only a stone’s throw from the Red Barn restaurant, a tasty retreat for all.

Barricane beach

Escape the crowds and watch the calm waters from the quaint Barricane beach in north Devon. Pack a blanket, lay it out and watch the romantic sunset on a summer’s evening.

Saunton Sands

Another north Devon treasure is Saunton Sands, loved by surfers with its golden sands and it’s perfect for your four-legged friend to enjoy. You may have spotted this dreamy destination as one of the filming locations for Robbie William’s ‘Angel’ music video.

Beer beach

At the end of the picturesque fishing village of Beer is a shingled beach surrounded by beautiful boats and limestone cliffs. Need a break from sunbathing? Walk up the beach until you find the Anchor Inn for a tasty meal and a pint, all of which can be enjoyed from the beer garden out front with its amazing views over the beach. As well as the pub, there are a few cafés on the beach where you can grab a bacon bap with a refreshing drink.

Anstey’s Cove, Torquay

Nestled between Babbacombe and Torquay are the pebbled shores of Anstey’s Cove, a quaint dog-friendly beach in south Devon. Paddle in the sea, kayak along the coast or relax after a long day in the deck chairs. If you feel peckish, visit the nearby Anstey’s Cove Café for a sandwich or something sweet.

Fishcombe Cove

Fishcombe Cove is a small, shingled beach surrounded by rocks and cliffs in Brixham. Bring your four-legged friend for a day out while you make sandcastles with the family or dip your feet in the south Devon shores. There’s the Fishcombe Cove Café close by where you can grab a cold drink and some nibbles which overlooks the clear blue sea.

East Portlemouth beach

For picturesque views at a peaceful location, head to East Portlemouth beach and soak up the sun with your pooch. Visit Fisherman’s Cove where you can catch the ferry to Salcombe busier beaches if you prefer a busier atmosphere. Perhaps stop off here after walking the National Trust path exploring the wonders of the south coast.


This article was updated by Martha Griffiths in July 2021.