Guide to the Best Beaches in Devon & Cornwall

A three-mile stretch of golden sand backed by dunes and ideal for surfing, strolling, or simply soaking up the views. With direct access from Saunton Sands Hotel, it’s an unmissable spot for guests staying with us on the North Devon coast.

Regularly voted one of the UK’s best beaches, Woolacombe offers soft sand, great waves, and a laid-back vibe. Perfect for families and surfers alike, it’s only a short drive from Barnstaple.

This charming and compact beach is a surfer’s paradise, nestled in a picturesque village setting. Enjoy a day of beach fun, then refuel at one of the cosy cafés nearby.

Famous for its pebble ridge and vast tidal sands, Westward Ho! is great for kitesurfing and rockpooling. Just a short drive from Barnstaple and a family favourite.

Tucked beneath red sandstone cliffs and accessed via the iconic white stairway, Jacob’s Ladder is Sidmouth’s quieter beach. With rock pools, clean sand, and a timeless charm, it’s a favourite for families and coastal walkers alike.

Just a 15-minute drive from Sidmouth, Budleigh is a long, pebbled beach with clear waters and peaceful vibes. It’s a haven for swimmers, kayakers, and artists drawn to the dramatic views and beautiful light.

Just a short walk from Woolacombe, Barricane is a small, tucked-away cove known for its unique shell and shale mix and excellent sunsets. It’s ideal for a quieter beach day, and in summer, there’s a popular Sri Lankan curry shack right on the sand - a local favourite!

A long, pebbly stretch backed by a laid-back promenade, Seaton is a great base for exploring the Jurassic Coast. It's perfect for paddleboarding, sea swims, and family days out. You can also hop on the historic Seaton Tramway for a scenic ride inland.

A sweeping sandy beach backed by a classic seaside town, Exmouth is great for water sports, coastal cycling, and family fun. The western end is perfect for kitesurfing, while the eastern side is more peaceful for picnics and paddling.

Just minutes from The Royal Duchy Hotel, Gyllyngvase is one of Cornwall’s most accessible and family-friendly beaches. Think calm waters, a café on the sand, and paddleboard rentals for the adventurous.

A little further along the coast from Gylly, this charming cove is great for families and wild swimmers. Don’t miss the quirky beach café and the nature reserve behind the sands.

A peaceful, sandy beach just a 10-minute drive from Falmouth, Maenporth is perfect for kayaking and coastal walks - or simply settling in with a book and a sea view.

This long, sweeping beach is a favourite for watersports, with a holiday vibe and good facilities. It’s family-friendly and well-located for exploring the nearby Lost Gardens of Heligan.

Calm waters and dramatic cliffs make Porthpean a popular choice for sea kayaking and picnics. Just south of St Austell, it’s ideal for a relaxed beach day with minimal crowds.

A newly revived beach with a mix of rugged charm and pop-up summer bars, Carlyon Bay is spacious and uncrowded - perfect for an early morning stroll or a sunset glass of wine.

Just across the Helford from Trebah, Durgan is a tiny, tranquil beach owned by the National Trust. It's perfect for kayaking, crabbing, or just soaking up the serenity away from the summer crowds.

Around 20 minutes from St Austell, Porthluney Cove is a sheltered, sandy beach sitting just below the beautiful Caerhays Castle. It’s family-friendly, peaceful, and has a seasonal café. The backdrop of the castle and gardens makes it feel like a hidden gem.

A little off the beaten path, Vault Beach is about a 25-minute drive from St Austell and rewards the effort with serene views and a quiet, unspoiled atmosphere. It’s a favourite among locals for peaceful swims, long walks, and escaping the summer crowds.