The Devon beach guide

Beaches, Coastal, Days out

Posted by Courtney on 8th November 2021

Blackpool Sands, South Devon

Grab your buckets and spades, don your flip flops and (wet)suit up, because it’s time to unearth the best shores and seaside that the county of Devon has to offer. Pristine, dune-backed beaches, glass-like waves and endless coastal paths are all showcased in our handy, bitesize guide.

Whether you’re after some rock pooling with the kids, some wave-riding with the locals or just a merry stroll with loved ones, our collated information below will help you make the most of your beach stay in Devon.

With over 500 miles of shoreline, spread across two coasts, you are really spoiled for choice when it comes to sand safaris in this gorgeous part of the West Country.


Babbacombe Beach

10 beaches you wouldn't believe are in Devon

From the beaches in the North Devon Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to the palm-tree-fringed stretches of sand down on the south coast, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in the Mediterranean…or even on Mars! Click below to find out what we’re talking about.

Unbelievable Devon beaches


Devon's amazing coast

Explore the beautiful Devon coast

Being the only British county able to boast two separate coastlines and having the second-most amount of shoreline in the UK, you may have your work cut out for you when delving into all of Devon’s coastal beauty spots. You’ll find beaches fraught with fossils, harbour towns with bobbing boats and the splendour of the South West Coast Path, all backed by the majestic Atlantic Ocean.

Exploring Devon's coast

Surfers in Devon

The best surfing beaches in Devon

Known as the surfing mecca of the UK, the South West of England sports some top surfing destinations and no small part of that is thanks to Devon. Whether you are an experienced swell hunter searching for some spots away from the crowds, or you are a surfing grom (novice) just looking to enjoy some time in the water, read our guide and discover the best beaches to carve up.

Devon's surfing shores


Running with dogs on a beach

11 dog-friendly beaches in Devon

All in all, Devon has approximately 120 beaches to choose from, with over 100 of those allowing four paws to grace the golden sands and splash in the sparkling waters. Spread over two separate coastlines, there’s plenty of options for doggy paddling, chasing tails and digging for bones, so grab the dog thrower, some water and a dog towel and check out our guide to the best 11 beaches in Devon.

Devon's dog-friendly beaches


Devon holidays

No matter whether you are paddling out back to catch a wave, visiting a traditional fishing village or just appreciating a leisurely coastal stroll, you’ll need a place to rest your weary head after exploring Devon’s best beaches. Our self-catering cottages near the coast have everything you need to enjoy an unforgettable stay, including outdoor showers for washing off sandy feet and storage areas for water sports equipment.

Devon's coastal cottages

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.