coast TRAVEL
With miles of sandy beaches and craggy coves, the more gentle coastline of South Devon is pure beach heaven
1. BEST FOR: A TASTE OF THE MED BLACKPOOL SANDS
Why here? Backed by pine trees and lush evergreen countryside, this sheltered, privately owned beach near Dartmouth is one of South Devon’s most picturepostcard places to spend a day with the family. The crescent of golden, Blue Flag sands are cleaned daily in summer and overseen by RNLI lifeguards, while shimmering waters, tested by the Environment Agency, make the perfect spot for little ones to splash around in. In summer there are supervised sand pits for kids to build sandcastles in.
Facilities: Toilets, disabled facilities and showers. The well-stocked Venus beach shop supplies beachside essentials and watersports hire, including snorkels, surf skis and kayaks.
Where to stay: Sleeping eight, Grants Cottage is a Grade II-listed dog-friendly house with private courtyard and woodburning stove. Prices for a week’s stay start from £1,028 (sykescottages.co.uk).
2. BEST FOR: STATELY SWIMS SUGARY COVE
Why here? Immerse yourself in the waves beneath towering cliffs as oystercatchers soar overhead – wild swimming doesn’t get more life-affirming than a dip at Sugary Cove. This beautiful sand and pebble beach, tucked under 14th-century fortress Dartmouth Castle, looks out onto the mouth of the River Dart and is completely cut off at high water so check the tide times before you visit.
Facilities: It’s a steep descent of 70 steps from the coastal path to the beach. Park at Dartmouth Castle or above the beach roughly 300m away. Dartmouth Castle tea rooms, shop and toilets, and information point are about 100m from the beach.
Where to stay: Perched on the banks of the River Dart, Melbrake is a contemporary, three-bed self-catering let just a 10-minute walk from Sugary Cove. Prices for a week’s stay start from £1,212 based on six people sharing (originalcottages.co.uk).
3. BEST FOR: BEACHSIDE FEASTS SOUTH MILTON SANDS
Why here? Pipe fish, sea scorpions and edible crabs are just a few of the natural wonders dwelling in the rock pools of National Trust-owned South Milton Sands (nationaltrust.org.uk). This wide, sheltered bay, set in an Area of Outstanding Beauty, is ideal for watersports enthusiasts; canoeists can make a beeline for the arch of Thurlestone Rock which stands majestically out at sea like a mini Durdle Door. Dine
