Our Guide to Salcombe's beaches

Salcombe boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches in Devon, each offering something special. From golden sands and sheltered coves to sweeping bays with crystal-clear waters, there’s a perfect spot for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a lively beach with cafés and watersports, a family-friendly stretch for paddling and rock pooling, or a peaceful hideaway where you can unwind in nature, you’ll find it here. With the stunning Salcombe estuary and South West Coast Path nearby, exploring these beautiful beaches is all part of the adventure.

North Sands

A large sandy beach perfect for families, with great swimming due to the safe bay, and rockpools nearby for exploring. North Sands beach is an easy 15 minute flat walk from Salcombe town, no need to get the ferry and there is also a small car park to the back of it.

The beach has stunning views of the Kingsbridge Estuary, Sunny Cove on the East Portlemouth side and out to sea past Wolf Rock. The Winking Prawn sits behind it for a lunch stop or coffee/beer break.

The beach is totally submerged at high tide. Dogs welcome all year round.

South Sands

A lovely flat sandy beach with two hotels, a beach cafe and a watersports centre. For those wanting to try their hand at paddle-boarding and kayaking this is great beach to do it from.

Instead of walking or driving we recommend getting the South Sands Ferry from Salcombe, a novel and beautiful way to get to the beach.

Dogs are not allowed from 1st May - 30th September.

Fisherman's Cove

Just a short stroll from the East Portlemouth Ferry, Fisherman’s Cove is a peaceful family friendly beach, With its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, it’s an idyllic spot for swimming and relaxing. This hidden gem sits just to the left of the ferry landing and offers a more tranquil setting compared to some of Salcombe’s busier beaches. While there are no facilities directly on the beach, amenities can be found nearby at the ferry steps, and dogs are welcome throughout the year.

Smalls

A favourite among locals, Smalls is a beautiful, tucked-away beach on the East Portlemouth side of the estuary. It can only be accessed by walking along the beach at low tide, adding to its secluded charm. With stunning views, clear waters, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming. While there are no facilities directly at Smalls, the nearby ferry steps provide access to a café and toilets. Dogs are welcome all year round, making it a great option for dog walkers seeking a quieter beach escape.

Mill Bay

Mill Bay is one of the most popular beaches on the East Portlemouth side of the Salcombe estuary, easily accessed via the East Portlemouth Ferry. With its soft golden sands, calm, clear waters, and plenty of space for beach games, it’s a fantastic spot for families and groups. At low tide, you can walk between the nearby beaches, while a scenic coastal path runs behind them when the tide is high. The beach has public toilets at the back, with a pop-up café in high season. Dogs are welcome year-round, making it a great choice for a relaxed day by the sea.

Sunny Cove

Sunny Cove is often quieter than the other beaches as it is slightly harder to get to.

Set near the estuary mouth it has wonderful views out to sea, the waters can be slightly rougher here. The sheltered cove and soft sandy beach provide a peaceful spot often likened to a Mediterranean beach.

Accessible by passenger ferry plus a walk along the path running along the back of teh beaches which oin the SW Coastal Path . Or by hiring/using your own boat.

Limebury & The Hipple

Limebury and the Hipple only appear at low tide and have lots of rock pools to explore which are really popular with children. The highlight is the spit of sand revealed during very low tides. Waves come in creating a fantastic playground for bodyboarding and wave jumping.

Accessible by hiring or using your own boat, or walking from the East Portlemouth ferry at very low tides.