Beaches

Blackpool Sands
Blackpool Sands, set in a sheltered bay surrounded by pine and evergreen trees is one of South Devon's most beautiful natural treasures. On a good day you could almost believe you were in the Mediterranean! A shingle beach, (as are all the main beaches in Start Bay), it is located 3 miles south of Dartmouth. There is the award winning Venus Beach Cafe which serves delicious, mainly organic & locally sourced, food & drinks. There is an all weather seating area and the Cafe is open all year round. There is also a shop selling local foods/drinks, buckets and spades, postcards, sun creams etc. etc Click here for more information.

Bantham
Bantham Beach is situated on the South coast of Devon in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Idyllically set at the mouth of the River Avon, Bantham Beach looks out toward Burgh Island. As well as fine golden sand Bantham Beach also has rock pools and sand dunes making it an ideal beach for all the family. During the summer, facilities available include a life guard, toilets and first aid; there is also disabled access and a pay and display car park. It is approximately 30 minutes drive away. Click here for more information.

Bigbury-on-Sea
Famous for Burgh Island, which is linked to the mainland by a tidal causeway. When the tide is in, it is possible to reach the island by taking the unique sea tractor! Otherwise it is possible to walk across the sand causeway at low tide. Once there, the ancient Pilchard Inn is worth a visit for some refreshment! Or take tea at the art deco Burgh Island Hotel where many famous visitors have stayed, including Agatha Christie, who wrote Evil Under the Sun there. Plenty of car parking available in Bigbury (pay and display). Click here for more information.

Thurlestone
There are two main beaches at Thurlestone - the smaller is by the Golf club, whilst the larger is a little further along the coast towards South Milton. Both have fine, shingle sand and sheltered waters.

Thurlestone, named after the large sea rock with a hole through the centre famously painted by the artist, Turner, is one of several locally owned by the National Trust and attracts both families and water sports enthusiasts. The wide sandy beach is backed by a nature reserve where rare birds have been spotted. Those preferring exercise to sunbathing can take off along the South Devon Coastal Path for wonderful walks with spectacular views. Picturesque and historic Thurlestone village, slightly inland, with its 13th Century church and pretty thatched cottages also offers a pub, a hotel and post office/village stores.

The waters here are particularly well suited to surfing, windsurfing or canoeing. During the summer months a range of watersports equipment can be hired on the beach.

Nearby Thurlestone Golf club is set in about 50 acres on the cliff top with beautiful sea views. You can walk from Thurlestone to the quaint harbour of Hope Cove along the cliff top. Click here for more information.