Beaches in the South West
The South West is one of the first places people turn to for a holiday brimming with beach experiences. It’s easy to see why, with the coastline in this part of the country unrivalled in beauty.
The South West is perfect for a bit of staycation sun. Being home to the English Riviera (and a few palm trees too), it’s not surprising that the area is the hottest in the UK. In the summer, temperatures reach an average of around 21°C. Each South West county brings its own amazing set of sandy beaches into the conversation. From the wealth and wonder of Dorset’s south coast all the way down to some of the country’s most untouched shores in Cornwall. Uninterrupted Atlantic waves crash against the region’s shores, generating a water quality that rises above the rest of the country.
Looking for the cream of the crop? Check out our list of the best beaches in the South West.
Beach walks: A hiker’s paradise
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.
Beach history: As seen on screen
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.
Beach attractions: action-packed adventure
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.
Cornwall
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.
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Devon
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
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
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.
Start planning your Great British break
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10 of the Best Beaches in Devon
9 of the Best Beaches in Dorset
10 of the Best Beaches in Somerset
Important information
Brand new holiday homes from £34,995
Holiday home price is for a new 3-bedroom ABI New Horizon holiday home and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 19 July 2024, price is available at all parks, excluding Church Farm, Cala Gran, Kiln Park, Littlesea, Lydstep Beach, Penally Court, Perran Sands, Rockley Park, Seashore, Seaview and Thornwick Bay.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
New holiday homes from £33,995
Holiday home price is for a new 3-bedroom Willerby Ellerton Extra holiday and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
From 12 July 2024 the holiday home price is reduced from £37,995 to £33,995 and will remain at this price until all available stock is sold.
The holiday home price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 12 July 2024 this price is available at Berwick, Burnham-on-Sea, Devon Cliffs, Doniford Bay, Hafan y Mor, Kent Coast, Lakeland, Marton Mere, Presthaven, Primrose Valley, Reighton Sands, Seton Sands and Weymouth Bay.
Haven reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time. Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Pre-owned holiday homes from £19,995
Holiday home price is based on a Bronze Grade pre-owned holiday home 6 years or older and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 12 July 2024, price is available at all parks, excluding Cala Gran, Church Farm, Cardigan View, Cleethorpes Beach, Craig Tara, Far Grange, Golden Sands, Haggerston Castle, Kiln Park, Littlesea, Lydstep Beach, Orchards, Penally Court, Perran Sands, Rockley Park, Riviere Sands, Seashore, Seaview, Skegness and Thornwick Bay.
Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times. Park cannot be used as a permanent residence.
Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Free 2024 site fees when you buy a Haven holiday home
Offer is applicable to new customer purchases made through Haven from 19 April 2024, completing by 31 December 2024.
Offer excludes part-exchanges or private sales. Available on new & pre-owned holiday homes at the following selected parks only: Kent Coast, Burnham-on-Sea, Cleethorpes Beach, Craig Tara, Far Grange, Golden Sands, Haggerston Castle, Hopton, Orchards, Skegness and Wild Duck.
A credit equivalent to the value of your site fees due during the 2024 season will be applied to your account balance on completion of your purchase for use against your running costs e.g. utilities, after-sale add-ons e.g storage boxes or site fees. It cannot be applied to your purchase or refunded in cash.
Subject to availability and status. Deposit required. Access to your holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Offer cannot be combined with any other offer, discount, or promotion. Offer may be withdrawn or changed at any time without notice. Full site fees will be payable for subsequent years.
Images are shown for representational purposes.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Site fees from as little as £125 a month with Let2offset at Burnham-on-Sea
Let2offset is a contractual lettings product that offers eligible owners a guaranteed letting income at a preferential rate (calculated each year) in exchange for a stipulated number of letting breaks. It also allows eligible owners to pay their site fees and receive their letting income in 12 equal monthly instalments; the monthly site fee amount charged by Haven will be after deduction of the letting income.
‘Site fees from as little as £125 a month with Let2offset’ is available at Burnham-on-Sea. The letting income received will vary by make, model and location. The monthly site fee payment does not include running costs e.g. utilities, rates & insurance. Offer is subject to availability.
“Site fees from as little as £125 a month with Let2offset” is applicable to new customer purchases of new Atlas Sahara 3 Bed or equivalent or superior grade holiday home purchases made through Haven where customers have also signed up to Haven’s Let2offset contract. It is not applicable to private sales and cannot be used in conjunction with our free Site Fee promotion. This offer is available at Burnham-on-Sea only and applies when letting a new Atlas Sahara 3 Bed holiday home (or equivalent or superior grade) for 15 weeks.
An example of how “Site fees from as little as £125 a month with Let2offset” operates under Let2offset is the purchase of an Atlas Sahara 3 Bed holiday home at Burnham-on-Sea with a monthly site fee of £750.00 (includes purchasing discount of £20) and monthly letting income of £606.00. The monthly difference equates to £124 which will be billed to the owner's account monthly. Both letting income and site fees are subject to yearly pricing reviews and the monthly site fee costs and letting income shown in the example are based on 2024 figures.
Modelled assumptions on expected annual site fee and letting income charges over the 7-year lettable life of the Atlas Sahara 3 Bed indicate that under Let2offset it is anticipated that these customers will continue to receive a monthly credit during this period, however, this is not guaranteed. The modelled assumptions are based on the historical performance of Haven over the past 5 years of trading.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Let2offset - make no site fee payments until 2031
Let2offset is a contractual lettings product that offers eligible owners a guaranteed letting income at a preferential rate (calculated each year) in exchange for a stipulated number of letting breaks. It also allows eligible owners to pay their site fees and receive their letting income in 12 equal monthly instalments; the monthly site fee amount charged by Haven will be after deduction of the letting income.
‘Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset until 2031’ is available at 33 Haven parks excluding Burnham, Cardigan View, Far Grange, Garreg Wen, Lydstep Beach, Riviere Sands and Seaview. The letting income received will vary by make, model and location. The monthly site fee payment does not include running costs e.g. utilities, rates & insurance.
“Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset until 2031” is applicable to new and existing customer purchases of new Atlas Sahara 3 Bed or equivalent or superior grade holiday home purchases made through Haven where customers have also signed up to Haven’s Let2offset contract. It is not applicable to private sales and cannot be used in conjunction with our free Site Fee promotion. It is available across 40% of eligible Parks and applies when letting a new Atlas Sahara 3 Bed holiday home (or equivalent or superior grade for 15 weeks.
An example of how “Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset until 2031” operates under Let2offset is the purchase of an Atlas Sahara 3 Bed holiday home at Primrose Valley with a monthly site fee of £585.00 (includes purchasing discount of £45) and monthly letting income of £803.67. The monthly difference equates to £218.67, which will be credited to the owner's account. Both letting income and site fees are subject to yearly pricing reviews and the monthly site fee costs and letting income shown in the example are based on 2024 figures.
Modelled assumptions on expected annual site fee and letting income charges over the 7-year lettable life of the Atlas Sahara 3 Bed indicate that under Let2offset it is anticipated that these customers will continue to receive a monthly credit during this period, however, this is not guaranteed. The modelled assumptions are based on the historical performance of Haven over the past 5 years of trading.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.