A locals guide to our favourite beaches in the south west
A visit to either Devon or Cornwall would simply not be complete without a visit to the spectacular South West coastline. There’s a total of 422 miles to explore, including golden beaches, dramatic cliffs and hidden coves. To help you make the most of your visit to the West Country’s spectacular shores, here is a list of our Top 10 Favourite Beaches…
DEVON
Woolacombe Beach
Consistently voted not only as one of the best beaches in Devon and Cornwall, but one of the best beaches in the UK, Woolacombe’s sandy shores stretch for an impressive three miles. It’s a popular spot for surfers, and there’s even a Woolacombe Dunes parkrun – a free 5k run, and notoriously one of the most difficult routes in the country.
- Nearest Car Park: Woolacombe Beach Car Park
- Postcode: EX34 7DN
Broadsands beach
Broadsands Beach is a secluded gem nestled near Combe Martin in Devon between towering cliffs. This serene beach is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature’s beauty and get off the beaten path a bit. Accessible via a footpath that involves a bit of a scramble at the end, the effort to reach Broadsands is rewarded with stunning views and a serene atmosphere – you can also get there by kayak or paddle board if you launch from Combe Martin. The beach’s pebbled shoreline and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal spot for a quiet picnic, a refreshing swim, or simply getting away from the crowds.
Nearest Car Park: Newberry Beach Car Park
Postcode: EX34 0AG
Barricane Beach
Located at the far Northern end of Woolacombe, Barricane Beach is popular amongst locals, and for good reason. The secluded sandy bay is surrounded by a rocky outcrop, and is less crowded than nearby Woolacombe and Croyde. It’s sometimes referred to as shell beach as it’s made up of shingle and shells including exotic shells such as cowries originally from the Caribbean.
Nearest Car Park: Marine Drive Car Park
Postcode: EX34 7BP
Blackpool Sands
Privately owned Blackpool Sands is located in an Area of Outstanding Beauty and is regularly awarded a blue flag, making it one of the best beaches in Devon and Cornwall. It features a gently sloping beach made up of golden shingle. There’s a large fee-paying car park right next to the beach making it accessible to everyone, plus a shop and a cafe serving drinks, cakes and hot food.
Nearest Car Park: Blackpool Sands Car Park
Postcode: TQ6 0RG
Woody Bay
Woody Bay is a hidden treasure surrounded by luscious woodland in Exmoor. This pebble beach offers a unique blend of woodland walks and sea swims. The beach is accessible via a steep path through the woods, providing a sense of adventure and elusiveness. Once there, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the sea, dramatic cliffscape, waterfalls and tidal pools at low tide. Woody Bay’s serene environment makes it a perfect spot far from the bustle of more popular beaches.
Nearest Car Park: Woody Bay Car Park (National Trust)
Postcode: EX31 4QX
CORNWALL
Kynance Cove
For one of the most picturesque beaches in Devon and Cornwall head to this magnificent cove on the Lizard Peninsula. Considered a Cornish gem, you can expect turquoise waters, soft white sand and incredible views. Plus, it’s sheltered making it great for swimming. Parking is available in the large National Trust car park, then it’s a ten minute walk down to the beach, where there’s a lovely cafe too.
Nearest Car Park: Kynance Cove Car Park (National Trust).
Postcode: TR12 7PJ
Whitsand Bay
Stretching to four miles at low tide, this beach is popular with walkers and surfers. Access is via steps and steep paths, but visitors will be rewarded with a stunning beach, scattered with rocks and framed by rugged cliffs. Plus, it’s dog friendly all year round too so the whole family can enjoy it.
Nearest Car Park: Tregantle Fort Car Park.
Postcode: PL10 1JY
Lantic Bay
You likely won’t find Lantic Bay at the very top of most lists of best beaches in Devon and Cornwall due to its remoteness, but this pretty, sheltered cove is well worth a visit. Set within an Area of Outstanding Beauty, it’s about a 20 minute walk through unspoilt countryside from the nearest car park to the beach, and steep at points, meaning that it’s never crowded.
Nearest Car Park: Frogmore Car Park (National Trust).
Postcode: PL23 1NP
Harlyn Bay Beach
One of the best beaches in Devon and Cornwall for families, the crescent shaped Harlyn Bay features a wide expanse of golden sand and has plenty of rock pools to explore. The waters are perfect for swimming and safe for novice surfers too. Dogs will love the space to run around too, which is just as well as they are welcome all year round.
Nearest Car Park: Harlyn Bay Car Park
Postcode: PL28 8SB
Polly Joke
Officially known as Porth Joke, is a secluded sandy cove nestled between Crantock and Hollywell Bay near Newquay. This little gem is surrounded by wildflower meadows, especially stunning in the spring and early summer when the poppies are in full bloom and people flock to emmerse themselves in the red fields. Accessible by a pleasant walk from the nearby car park, Polly Joke offers a peaceful escape with its soft sands and clear waters. The beach remains relatively quiet even during peak seasons, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty away from the more crowded tourist destinations.
Nearest Car Park: West Pentire Car Park.
Postcode: TR8 5QS
Somewhere to rest your head
After all the beach fun and fresh sea air, you’ll need somewhere to relax and sleep well, ready for more adventures tomorrow. Our luxury holiday parks in the South West offer the perfect retreat for the whole family, in stunning settings, where you can return sandy-toed and sleep soundly to the sounds of the countryside. Book your getaway today so you can enjoy the best beaches in Devon and Cornwall.
