The south coast beaches of Devon & Cornwall are generally calmer and more sheltered than their north coast siblings battered by the Atlantic. Expect long, sandy beaches, picturesque village ports and good ice cream (clotted cream, of course).

A wide and spacious sand/shingle beach with many rock pools at low tide. East beach has a reputation as an unofficial nudist beach.




A sheltered sandy cove with rock pools to explore, this beach is located close to Plymouth and backed by low cliffs.



Two sand and shingle beaches with numerous rock pools. Popular with families and the east beach (known as Finnygook beach) can be used by experienced surfers. Tides can be strong, so be careful



Low cliffs surrounding the small cove of Wembury beach. There are large areas of sand and many rockpools to explore at low tide.




Large sandy beach. All facilities nearby, including car parks, toilets, cafes and pub. Seaton Valley Countryside Park offers walks, picnic and amenity areas.





Stunningly beautiful three-mile stretch of fine sandy beach backed by slate cliffs, reached by paths at Freathy, Tregonhawke and Tregantle. Beware of strong rip tides.



A sheltered sand and shingle beach with rock pools. New facilities nearby are currently under development, including boat hire and watersports. Car park, toilets, cafe. Easy access.





Car parking either at small quayside park or 15 minute walk from the main car park in West Looe. Easy access. All year dog ban on East Looe beach. Dogs allowed on Plaidy.






A long rocky beach which stretches around Hannafore Point to the west of Looe.





There are several small beaches in Talland Bay – the main one by the Beach Cafe is probably the best for children and has sand both at high tide and low tide.





Attractive, sheltered sand and shingle beaches with all facilities nearby, including pubs, cafes and beach shops. Great to take the ferry across from the Barbican, or the Cremyll ferry to Mount Edgecombe and walk round.






At low tide the massive expanse of sand sweeps from the main beach up the estuary to the slip road, making it possible to walk along the sands.




A sheltered horse-shoe shaped cove with a fine sandy beach. There are excellent walks along the South Devon Coast Path with glorious scenery.





A beautiful and vast sandy beach backed by low cliffs at the mouth of the River Avon. A real ‘must’ because of the lovely Burgh Island. Enjoy a trip across to Burgh Island on the hugh tractor. The Venus Cafe does great take-away food.






Bantham is a vast sandy beach on the South Devon Coast Path. It is backed by marum-covered sand dunes, with many rock pools to explore.




Owned by the National Trust it is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The beach is made up of coarse sand and rocky outcrops, with rock pools to explore at low tide.





The 3 main beaches at Hope Cove are all small and sheltered by the coastline. Their shores are lapped by small waves, making them perfect for younger children.





Situated between two headlands, this beach provides fantastic coastal views and is completely submerged at high tide. There are miles of safe inland sailing along this stretch of coastline.




A fine sandy family beach which is accessible via the road, coastal footpath or a passenger ferry from Salcombe town centre.





The East Portlemouth side of the Salcome Estuary is lined by many beaches, and at low tide one can walk the entire fore-shore.




Beach guide
Highly Recommend– Tripadvisor.co.uk 2025
We had a wonderful experience at Woodovis. The site and facilities are spotless. The team were lovely and welcoming. Things like the snack shack and ordering freshly baked goods were such a bonus. They were very helpful after a break down en route. Would highly recommend Woodovis.
Amazing experience, good facilities, peaceful atmosphere– Tripadvisor.co.uk 2025
Amazing experience! The place is extremely peaceful, and all staff are responsive and welcoming!
Fantastic site!! – Tripadvisor.co.uk 2025
We spent two weeks at this beautiful site. Facilities were immaculate, site was very well maintained , wardens were very helpful, we had most dealings with Andy and Nicky who went above and beyond for us. Would definitely recommend this site to anyone, so peaceful and 45 minutes away from some stunning beaches.
Happy holiday– Tripadvisor.co.uk 2025
We stayed in the cottage at Woodovis and it’s quite possibly one of the best places we’ve stayed in. It smelled lovely when we arrived and was very clean. There was a welcome gift for both us and our dogs which was a really nice touch. The cottage has it’s own little garden with beautiful roses growing, it’s perfect if you have dogs, it’s nice to be able to let them have a similar freedom to what they would have at home.
Absolutely Outstanding Stay at Woodovis Park– Tripadvisor.co.uk 2025
Our experience at Woodovis Park was nothing short of exceptional! From the moment we arrived, the team went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and cared for. The facilities are amazing and the indoor heated swimming pool was a particular highlight, perfect for a relaxing swim whatever the weather.
Tranquillity and serenity the perfect place to unwind and rest– Tripadvisor.co.uk 2025
A gem hidden down the end of a beautiful long entrance road. Peaceful and relaxing with lots of wildlife to see. Facilities are of a high standard a shop that has everything you’re likely to need. Wardens are very friendly and welcoming, this was our 3rd stay and we will keep returning!