Devon beaches offer some of the most diverse landscapes in the country, from the crystal clear waters of hidden coves to sweeping bays backed by bustling coastal resorts.
Explore the stunning stretches of golden sand along the north coast of Devon, where secret beaches and secluded coves await your discovery. While on the south coast, experience the haunt of smugglers and epic surfing conditions that will leave you breathless.
So why wait? Make a beeline for the South West coastline and discover the best Devon beaches for yourself. With so much to explore, you’ll never run out of options for a fun-filled day at the beach.
Read on to discover the best Devon beaches…
1. Woolacombe Beach
Naturally, Woolacombe has made it to the top of our list of the best beaches in Devon! With its rolling surf, unbroken Atlantic breakers, golden sands and spectacular views over the Woolacombe Downs, it’s easy to see why this Devon beach sees tourists flocking from all over.
This beach in Devon is a popular location amongst families and surfers, with miles of ocean colliding with three miles of golden sands. There is plenty of space for an array of watersports and the flat sands make the ideal spot for a beach game or two!
Those seeking to moment’s peace will love Woolacombe Beach. There’s plenty of space for you to sneak away from the bustling atmosphere to unwind with a book or admire the soundtrack of crashing waves.
With its breath-taking beauty, it’s no surprise to see Woolacombe Beach on the best beaches in England guide!
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round. However, they are not allowed between the rocks at the north end of the beach and the stream from April – September
Car Park: Yes, for a charge
Public Toilets: Yes
Postcode: EX34 7DL
2. Croyde Bay Beach
Next on our guide to beaches in Devon is the beautiful Croyde Bay Beach, which is considerably smaller than some of its sister beaches along the north coastline.
Tucked between Woolacombe and Saunton Sands, Croyde Bay plays host to fine golden sands and consistent surf. Moreover, with its location between two headlands, you are guaranteed some protection against the wind!
There’s plenty to do at this beach, often rated as one of the best surfing beaches in the world! The beach’s crescent shape and orientation to the prevailing winds create optimal conditions for the activity. You will also find several surf schools where beginners can learn the basics and experienced surfers can refine their skills.
Apart from surfing, this beach in North Devon offers various other activities for visitors to indulge in. The clear waters invite swimmers to take a dip, while others can explore the tide pools for sea creatures!
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Seasonal dog ban between May – September
Car Park: Yes, for a charge
Public Toilets: Yes
Postcode: EX33 1FF
3. Exmouth Beach
Exmouth Beach is one of the more popular beaches in South Devon. This stunning stretch of coastline is a must for families, dog walkers, watersport enthusiasts and those alike seeking a fun day out by the sea.
With golden sands and crystal clear waters, Exmouth Beach is the perfect place to enjoy a range of activities, from swimming and sunbathing to surfing and paddleboarding. One of the most attractive features of this beach in Devon is its wide, spacious beachfront. The beach is over two miles long, providing plenty of room for visitors to spread out and relax.
So, whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to read or a bustling area to play beach volleyball, Exmouth Beach has something for everyone.
Continuing to impress, this beach is well known for its excellent surf conditions, with waves suitable for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Many local companies offer equipment hire and lessons, making it easy for visitors to try their hand at something new.
Round off each day at the beach by heading into the town centre, where there are several cafes and restaurants, as well as shops to pick up a Devonshire souvenir!
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Seasonal dog ban between May – September
Car Park: Yes, for a charge
Public Toilets: Yes
Postcode: EX8 1BQ
4. Maidencombe Beach
If you are looking for a small and secluded beach in Devon, look no further than Maidencombe Beach. Here, you can look forward to stunning natural surroundings and crystal-clear waters, far removed from amusement arcades!
The rocky shoreline is home to an array of creatures and is ideal for rock pooling and exploring. Bring along the snorkel gear too, as a lucky few have stopped dolphins and seals in the surrounding waters!
The beach is easily accessible, with the car park situated just a short walk away and there are plenty of bus routes that stop nearby.
Maidencombe Beach is one of the lesser-known Devon beaches, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and quiet retreat.
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Yes
Car Park: Yes, for a charge
Public Toilets: Yes, open between April – October
Postcode: TQ1 4TS
5. Bigbury-on-Sea
This particular beach in Devon has a number of award-winning qualities, but possibly the most noticeable feature is its beautiful scenery.
Bigbury-on-Sea is one of Devon’s best beaches and very popular, attracting visitors with its sandy shores, clear waters, and breath-taking views of Burgh Island, a photographer’s dream!
For views back towards Bigbury-on-Sea, cross to Burgh Island at low tide or grab a ride on the ever-popular sea tracker during high tide.
The beach is also a popular spot for those seeking an adrenaline rush, with opportunities for bodyboarding, windsurfing and kite-surfing here. The beach has lifeguards on duty during the peak season, ensuring the safety of visitors while they enjoy the waves.
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Seasonal dog ban between May – September
Car Park: Yes, for a charge
Public Toilets: Yes
Postcode: TQ7 4AS
6. Westward Ho! Beach
With everything, you would expect from one of the best beaches in Devon, Westward Ho! Beach plays host to seaside shops and a long stretch of sand.
If you are looking for a traditional seaside to take your family, Westward Ho! Beach is perfect. It has been awarded Blue Flag status, giving families the confidence to safely play on the beach and swim in the sea.
Meander the sand backed by a pebble ridge before discovering the Northam Burrows Country Park accessible at one end of the beach. This is a great space to walk your canine companion during the winter months!
Once the sun has set, make your way into the centre where you will find a range of food outlets and somewhere to linger over a pint!
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Seasonal dog ban between May – September
Car Park: Yes, for a charge
Public Toilets: Yes
Postcode: EX39 1LH
7. Paignton Beach
Next on our guide to beaches in Devon is the beautiful beach at Paignton , offering stunning views of the English Channel and the surrounding countryside.
The beach is situated in a charming seaside town, which is known for its traditional architecture, family-friendly atmosphere, and an excellent range of amenities.
Families can make the most of the wide range of activities and attractions on offer, including swimming, sunbathing and watersports! The sand is clean and well-maintained and has been awarded Blue Flag status. This means that you can be assured of a high standard of cleanliness, safety, and environmental protection.
Afterwards, head to the pier where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and people-watch. The pier itself was built in 1879 and is steeped in history, providing a glimpse into the town’s Victorian past.
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Seasonal dog ban between May – September
Car Park: Yes, for a charge
Public Toilets: Yes
Postcode: TQ4 6AW
8. Hartland Quay
Situated on the rugged North Devon coastline is the picturesque Hartland Quay. Unsurprisingly, the beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, thanks to its stunning natural scenery and rich maritime history.
Although relatively peaceful now, the beach played an important role during World War II when it was used in preparation for the D-Day landings in Normandy. It was also a bustling port in the 16th century where ships carrying goods such as coal, lime, and grain would moor.
Today, the jagged cliffs surrounding the cove are frequented by walkers who come to enjoy the area’s diverse range of wildlife, including dolphins, seals, and rare birds. While the Atlantic Ocean swell makes this a popular spot with surfers.
After a day on the pebble beach, visitors can head to one of the nearby charming pubs and restaurants where they can enjoy a drink or a meal while taking in the stunning views of the sea.
Type of beach: Pebble and rock
Dog-friendly: Dog ban all year around
Car Park: Yes, for free
Public Toilets: Yes
Postcode: EX39 6DB
9. Slapton Sands
Slapton Sands is the type of beach that you would expect to see on the front of a postcard thanks to its picturesque setting!
This idyllic shoreline is perfect for a family visit, with soft, dense sands for constructing sandcastles, a gentle current for swimming, and plenty of room for sunbathing.
Slapton Sands plays an important role in the survival of the UK’s rarest flora and fauna, as well as in history. It was used as a rehearsal area for the D-Day landings in 1943, and today it hosts a stone monument and a Sherman Tank at nearby Torcross.
Visitors can also head to the nearby beach cafe or catch a glimpse of the wildlife in the Nature Reserve. Here, you will find Slapton Ley, a freshwater lake where plants and animals find a home and vary according to the seasons.
If you are looking for dog-friendly beaches in Devon, look no further than Slapton Sands!
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Car Park: Yes, for a charge
Public Toilets: Yes
Postcode: TQ7 2PN
10. Putsborough Sands
Stretching north towards Woolacombe and Morte Point and south towards Baggy Point is our next Devon beach.
Putsborough Sands is made up of three golden miles of sand and its position on the south side of Woolacombe makes it a quiet spot. This peaceful haven with rolling waves of the Atlantic invites surfing of the highest quality.
This beach is also a popular spot with swimmers, windsurfers and canoeists! Surfboard hire is available on the beach for those wishing to explore the waters!
The surroundings are perfect for leisurely strolls, which your canine companion is welcome to join you on in the winter months. Mini rock climbers can discover the plentiful supply of rock pools, while the adults dip their toes in the shallows!
It is easy to see why this is one of the best beaches in Devon!
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Seasonal dog ban between May – September
Car Park: Yes, for a charge
Public Toilets: Yes
Postcode: EX33 1LB
11. Branscombe Beach
Nestled in a picturesque valley on the Jurassic Coast in East Devon is Branscombe Beach. With a shingle and pebble beach that stretches for miles, this beach in Devon is perfect for long walks, picnics, and sunbathing!
Families will be delighted to find an abundance of rock pools, which are home to a variety of marine life. Look forward to crabs, sea anemones, and other fascinating creatures.
Refuel at the end of the day by visiting one of the two nearby cafes, both serving local food. This includes fresh seafood caught by the village’s fishermen. Alternatively, enjoy several nearby attractions, including the historic village of Branscombe, the Beer Quarry Caves, and the Donkey Sanctuary.
Type of beach: Shingle and pebble
Dog-friendly: Yes
Car Park: Yes, for a charge
Public Toilets: Yes
Postcode: EX12 3DP
12. Blackpool Sands
Our final beach in Devon, Blackpool Sands brings a slice of the Mediterranean to the UK. This is because of its clear waters and fragrant backdrop of scented pines and evergreens!
This picturesque stretch of the coast is perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon spent relaxing on the shore. And with its fantastic watersport opportunities and a delicious café within striking distance, it’s easy to see why this beach has been awarded Blue Flag status.
Throughout the year, this Devon beach plays host to a number of events! From the exciting music festival of ‘Tunes on the Sands’ to the usual Ironman Challenge weekends to the unusual beach cinema!
The beach is also within reach of a hike around Coleton Fishacre, one of many scenic Devon walks.
Type of beach: Stony
Dog-friendly: Seasonal dog ban between May – September
Car Park: Yes, for a charge
Public Toilets: Yes
Postcode: TQ6 0RG
Inspired by these beaches in Devon? Take a look at our Devon travel guide for more things to do and enjoy a holiday cottage in Devon! Alternatively, take a look at the spots featured in our guide to the best beaches in the UK!