Beaches in the South West

Want to give your hiking boots a workout? Then check out the South West Coast Path. It’s England's longest waymarked footpath, running all the way from Poole Harbour in Dorset, along the beaches of Devon and Cornwall, all the way to Minehead in Somerset. It’s a whopping 630 miles long and was voted Britain's Best Walking route twice in a row by readers of The Ramblers' Walk magazine. Don’t worry, you don’t have to hike the whole 630 miles, just dip in and out when you want. It’s the best way to enjoy the rugged natural beauty of the South West’s coastal area. 

The beaches in the South Westaren’t just beautiful, many have their own claims to fame too! If you’re a fan of the BBC’s Poldark series, you’ll no doubt have seen Cornwall’s Holywell Bay, Porthcurno and Kynance Cove (that pure white sand!) beaches on your screen. Now it’s time to see them with your own eyes.

The South West’s beaches were also a favourite of Daphne de Maurier, and frequently featured in her novels.  If it’s a bit of history you’re after, then head to Brixham. It’s here that William III landed with a coalition of troops in 1688, kicking off the Glorious Revolution. The town is also home to the Brixham Pirate Festival, which spills out onto its beaches. Enjoy dress-ups, re-enactments, music and a treasure chest full of other stuff that’s sure to shiver your timbers. If you’re heading to Devon or Dorset, then there’s plenty to enjoy on the area’s Jurassic Coast. Hunt for fossils, join a dinosaur safari trail, or hike the trails and enjoy the incredible nature. 

Of course, we can’t talk about beaches in the South West without mentioning the surf. Everybody knows about Newquay, but there’s so much more besides. Woolacombe in Devon is a great spot for beginners, so why not book yourself onto a lesson. Perran Sands is another wave-riding favourite that’s always buzzing with surfers during the high season. But there’s so much more for the thrill-seeker to enjoy in the South West. If you’ve tried our climbing wall and want to test your skills on the real thing, there are plenty of seaside cliffs to climb in the area - book yourself a class and get scrambling. You can also find kayaking, paddle-boarding and so much more all along the coast for an action-packed holiday. 

So, whether you’re looking for relaxed fun, to let your hair down, or a beach as a backdrop to your action-packed adventure, you’re sure to find it in the South West. All you need is a base to explore everything the region has to offer. 

Thanks to its mild climate, beautiful beaches and rideable waves, Cornwall has become the surf capital of the UK, attracting beach bums from all around during the summer months. But there’s plenty more to Cornwall than just catching the swell. Cornwall’s balmy weather and beautiful beaches are perfect for a relaxed staycation of sun, sea and sand. So, whether you want to get the adrenaline pumping, or just sunbathe your worries away, Cornwall’s beaches have you covered. Here are three beaches in Cornwall we’re sure you’re going to love. 

1. Holywell Bay, near Newquay 

At first glance, Holywell Bay might just look like scrub land, but get past the dunes and you’ll be met by a stunning stretch of golden sand and turquoise sea. Holywell Bay is close enough to Newquay’s top-notch pubs and cafes, but far enough away to escape from the student crowd, giving the beach a fantastic family vibe. Remember to check out the stunning rock formations in Holy Well cave; it’s accessible to explore at low tide.

2. Carbis Bay Beach, Carbis Bay 

This mile-long sandy beach sits on a calm turquoise sea, flanked by sub-tropical plants, giving the illusion of some foreign paradise. At the nearby Carbis Bay village you’ll find all the amenities you need, with pubs and cafes serving local favourites. What’s more, it’s just a 15-minute drive from our Riviere Sands holiday park.

3. Kynance Cove, near Helston

Kynance Cove has been a popular sun lounging spot since the Victorian period. With brilliant white sand lining turquoise water that plays host to dragon-like rock formations, Kynance Cove makes quite a shot for the photo album. If you’re peckish, check out Kynance Cove Beach Café. The establishment has operated for over a century and still makes some of the best crab sandwiches and traditional Cornish cream tea around. 

Home to the English Riviera, Devon is an ideal location for beach-based staycation this summer. It’s been popular with holidaymakers and weekend get-awayers since the Victorian period thanks to the stunning views and warm, sunny climate, and that hasn’t changed. Here are a few of Devon’s best beaches that have stood the test of time. 

1. Woolacombe Beach 

This three-mile stretch of sandy beach is overlooked by the stunning scenery of the South West Coast Path, and rims beautiful blue water that just pulls you in for a paddle. It’s also cleaned daily, making it one of the most pristine beaches around. You can get the full traditional English seaside experience at Woolacombe Beach, from beach hut rentals, to fish and chips by the sea.

2. Sandy Bay Beach, Exmouth 

This half-mile stretch of lush sand is set in what feels like a secluded bay, back by stunning red cliffs. If all you’re looking for is a bit of a lounge and a paddle under the sun, then simply grab your bucket and spade and make a day of it. If you’re up for something a little more active, then there are plenty of water sports for you to try. You’ll also find plenty of rockpools in the area, perfect for a bit of crabbing or combing. Oh, and best of all, it’s just a five-minute walk from our Devon Cliffs holiday park. 

3. Dawlish Warren Beach, Dawlish 

Opt for a day out to Dawlish Warren Beach and you can be sure you’ll never be bored. If you’re looking to get the adrenaline pumping, then there are plenty of water sports to try your hand at, from paddle boarding to jetskiing. But that’s not all - backing onto the beach is a feast of family-friendly amusements, including children’s rides, crazy golf, arcades and so much more. 

Dorset is famous for its fossil-flecked coast. Its gorgeous beaches are flanked by dramatic cliffs and rock formations that date all the way back to the Triassic period. So, if you’re looking for sun, sea and sand in a dramatic setting with a bit of fossil hunting thrown in, then Dorset is the place for you. To help you choose your perfect seaside spot, here are some of the best beaches in Dorset.

1. Weymouth Beach, Weymouth 

Weymouth Beach has the prestigious honour of being named one as of the top 25 beaches in Europe by TripAdvisor in its 2022 Traveller's Choice Awards. It's clear to see why. Its calm waters are great for a paddle with the little ones and with plenty of attractions, such beach donkey rides, summertime Punch & Judy shows and pedalo rides there's fun for all the family.

2. Lulworth Cove, West Lulworth 

Lulworth Cove is truly a gem of the Jurassic Coast. Ringed by dramatic cliffs and reptilian rock formations, it really is a prime example of what makes this UNESCO World Heritage Site so stunning. Chill on the sand and shingle beach, splash around in the calm, turquoise waters, or explore 150 million years’ worth of history and see if you can find yourself a fossil.

3. Bournemouth Beach, Bournemouth 

Bournemouth Beach is a favourite that’s been welcoming families since the Victorian period.The beach itself is soft and sandy, and its waters are calm, making it great for a paddle with the little ones. The top attraction has to be Bournemouth Pier, which has been entertaining beach-goers since 1880. Here you’ll find an indoor climbing wall, zip wire, an amusement arcade, and all manner of shows to keep you entertained.

Somerset has a little something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for the buzz of a seaside town like Weston-super-Mare, or just want to chill on a secluded beach somewhere with a good book, Somerset has you covered. Here are three of the best seaside spots in Somerset. 

1. Main Beach, Weston-super-Mare 

Weston-super-Mare is a classic seaside town that’s been pulling in the punters since the 1800s. This seaside town is abuzz with donkey rides, amusements, fish & chips and a whole swell of beachgoers and staycationers. The pièce de résistance must be the Grand Pier, where you’ll find all manner of thrilling rides, neon arcades, soft play, and much more.

2. Doniford Beach, Doniford 

Doniford Beach is a rough and rugged beach that’s a mix of pebble and sand. With gorgeous views out to Wales, this stretch is fantastic for a stroll. It’s also a fantastic spot for some fossil hunting too. So grab the kids and the pooch too and explore all that Doniford Beach has to offer. 

3. Burnham-on-Sea Beach, Burnham-on-Sea 

This gorgeous stretch is all sand, so great for a spot of sand castle building. Boats and jet skis have their own area, so you can be sure the water is clear and safe for a bit of a paddle with the little ones. If you’re in the mood for some entertainment, then the famous pier is just a stone’s throw away where you can enjoy the arcade or a little refreshment.