How to Experience the South Devon Coast this Summer
Whether you prefer to travel on foot, by boat, on the water or by steam, here are 5 different ways to see the spectacular South Devon coast this summer.
1. Explore the Local Towns and Villages
From quaint fishing villages and vibrant coastal towns to family-friendly resorts, the South Devon coast is home to many fascinating places. Here are just a few of our favourite coastal destinations:
Brixham
This picture-perfect harbour fishing town is one of the UK’s busiest working ports, so there’s always plenty going on whenever you visit. You can easily lose an hour or two sitting by the harbour, watching the boats come and go. There’s also plenty to explore in the town, with an interesting collection of shops, cafes and restaurants.
A short walk from the harbour lies Berry Head Nature Reserve, offering one of South Devon’s best vantage points where you can explore Napoleonic forts and spot wildlife.
Dartmouth
Situated within easy walking distance of Leonard’s Cove holiday park and bursting with historic, cultural and scenic attractions, the pretty town of Dartmouth is well worth exploring. Lying on the banks of the River Dart, there’s a wide range of shops, galleries and waterside cafes, historic houses, castles, beautiful sandy beaches and, during the last week of August, the famous Dartmouth Regatta.
Dittisham
Situated on the west bank of the River Dart, the village of Dittisham is one of the most unspoilt and tranquil destinations along the South Devon Coast. Spend a day relaxing by the riverbank and strolling around the village, or take part in the range of exciting watersports on offer.
Salcombe
Known for its golden, sandy beaches, beautiful estuary and maritime history, Salcombe is one of South Devon’s most picturesque (and most expensive) towns. The coastline is lined with impressive houses, shops and cafes and just around the corner lies the unspoilt coastal village of Bantham, a jewel in South Devon’s crown.
Teignmouth
This beautiful coastal town lies on the edge of the mouth of the River Teign along South Devon’s coast. Discover historic buildings, long stretches of sandy beach and fabulous fresh food and head inland to explore the most incredible countryside.
2. Set Sail on a Day Cruise
What better way to experience the beauty of South Devon’s coastline than by boat? There is a range of knowledgeable and experienced tour organisers who run daily cruises around the coastline.
Dartmouth Day Cruises offer a fascinating full-day excursion to the historic Port of Dartmouth, taking in breathtaking views of Berry Head and Coleton Fishacre along the way.
Stuart Line Cruises offer a range of boat trips, including a scenic day excursion from Exmouth to Torbay or Brixham.
3. Walk a Stretch of the South West Coastal Path
Exploring the South Devon Coastline on foot is one of the best ways to experience the area’s natural beauty. The South West Coastal Path hugs the coastline for 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset to Poole in Dorset, winding its way along South Devon’s coastline for roughly 125 miles. The path takes in some of the most stunning scenery and many of the region’s main towns.
Most of the coastal path is well signposted and easy to follow. These are some of our favourite sections of the South West Coastal Path:
Hope Cove to Salcombe
Experience some of the most spectacular views in Devon along this 8-mile stretch of coastal path between two of South Devon's most beautiful beaches.
Brixham to Exmouth
This 29-mile stretch of the coastal path can be completed in 2 days, or you can pick sections of the route to walk along. Passing through the towns of Torquay and Teignmouth, it’s a slightly more urban trail than the others, but well worth exploring.
Branscombe to Beer
Take a 3-mile stroll along the coastal path between two pretty fishing villages and admire the breathtaking ocean views. You can pick up something to eat at Branscombe’s beach cafe.
Beesands to Hallsands
This beautiful 3.5-mile walk encompasses magnificent views of Start Bay and the Start Point lighthouse, and you can take a small detour to the Hallsands village viewing platform.
4. Get out on the Water
South Devon’s sheltered bays and clean waters provide some of the best locations for watersports in the South West. Whatever your ability, there are plenty of opportunities for surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, coasteering, canoeing and windsurfing.
Babbacombe Watersports provide a wide range of rentals and tuition from pedalos and kayaks to boats and SUPS.
Explore the South Devon coastline with Torquay Watersports, which offers a range of thrilling RIB rides, boat charters, and RYA courses.
Discovery Surf School in Bigbury and Bantham offer tuition and hire and is ranked as one of the UK's best surf schools. For some of the best surf in the area, head to Bantham, Salcombe, Croyde and Woolacombe.
5. Take a Ride on the Dartmouth Steam Railway
Based on the sensational South Devon coast, Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company offer a selection of relaxing ways to soak up the area’s glorious scenery.
The railway runs along the Torbay coast between Paignton and Kingswear, overlooking the River Dart. You can book a range of excursions, involving trains, ferries and boats, ensuring you see the best of South Devon’s coast from every perspective.
Situated in a stunning clifftop location, overlooking the picturesque Start Bay, Leonards Cove Holiday Village is one of the best places to stay on the South Devon coast.
From sea-view campsites and luxury mobile homes to self-catering lodges and hot tub cottages, we offer a wide range of coastal self-catering accommodation to suit all budgets.
We’re perfectly located for beachside walks, and Blackpool Sands, Dartmouth and Slapton are all within easy reach of our site. With a range of fantastic activities, cafes and restaurants onsite and on our doorstep, we offer the perfect base for your South Devon holiday.