Nestled along the enchanting southwestern coast of England, these seaside towns in Devon boast an array of picturesque seaside towns, each offering its own unique blend of coastal charm, natural beauty, and historical significance.
With its stunning coastline that stretches along the English Channel and the Bristol Channel, Devon’s seaside towns are renowned for their sandy beaches, quaint fishing harbours, and scenic cliffs.
Seaside Towns In Devon
Whether you seek a bustling beachside resort, a tranquil fishing village, or a place to explore the wonders of the Jurassic Coast, the seaside towns in Devon have something to offer every traveller seeking a quintessential British seaside experience.
Torquay
Torquay, often referred to as the “English Riviera,” is one of the most famous and vibrant of the seaside towns in Devon.
Situated on the South Devon coast, Torquay is known for its stunning Mediterranean-like climate, palm tree-lined streets, and a wealth of attractions.
With a rich maritime history, a picturesque waterfront, and a wide range of activities, Torquay has long been a popular destination for tourists and holidaymakers.
Visitors to Torquay can enjoy its sandy beaches, including Torre Abbey Sands and Meadfoot Beach, which are perfect for sunbathing and swimming during the summer months.
Torquay’s vibrant waterfront, known as Torquay Harbour, is a bustling area filled with restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment options. It’s a great place to enjoy fresh seafood, take a boat tour, or simply take a leisurely stroll along the promenade.
For those interested in natural beauty and outdoor activities, Torquay is a gateway to exploring the English Riviera Global Geopark, which features stunning geological formations and the UNESCO-designated Jurassic Coast.
In addition to its natural and historical attractions, Torquay offers a range of family-friendly activities, including the Living Coasts coastal zoo and the Babbacombe Model Village, a miniature world that captivates visitors of all ages.
Paignton
Located near Torquay, Paignton is another charming seaside town in Devon with a long sandy beach and a traditional pier.
Paignton is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors for its sandy beaches, amusement arcades, and various family-friendly activities. The town is part of the English Riviera, which also includes Torquay and Brixham.
Paignton’s main attraction is its long, sandy beach along the Torbay coast. The beach offers opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, water sports, and leisurely walks.
The town is home to Paignton Zoo, one of the largest and most popular zoos in the UK. The zoo features a wide variety of animals and is known for its conservation efforts.
Paignton Pier is a classic seaside attraction, featuring amusements, arcades, and other entertainment options for visitors of all ages.
Brixham
A picturesque fishing town, Brixham is famous for its colourful waterfront houses, bustling harbour, and excellent seafood restaurants. You can also explore the replica of the Golden Hind, the ship used by Sir Francis Drake.
It is part of the Torbay area, often referred to as the English Riviera, along with nearby towns like Torquay and Paignton. Brixham has a rich maritime heritage and offers a charming coastal experience.
Brixham has a long history as a fishing town, and it continues to be an active fishing port today. The town is famous for its colourful fishing boats and bustling fish market, where you can see the day’s catch being landed and sold.
The town has a modern marina that accommodates leisure and fishing boats. The marina area is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it a vibrant and picturesque waterfront destination.
Berry Head is a prominent headland near Brixham and is home to a nature reserve. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks and birdwatching in this area, which offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline.
Brixham is home to a replica of the Golden Hind, the ship in which Sir Francis Drake circumnavigated the globe. The Golden Hind Museum ship offers insights into maritime history making for one of the best places to visit from all these seaside towns in Devonb if you have an interest in maritime history.
The town is known for its excellent seafood, and you can enjoy delicious fish and chips or dine at seafood restaurants along the waterfront.
Brixham offers a blend of historical charm and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for tourists interested in the maritime history of Devon and one of the best seaside towns in Devon.
Exmouth
Situated at the mouth of the River Exe, Exmouth is known for its long sandy beach and water sports.
Exmouth boasts a long, sandy beach that is a popular destination for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports. The beach overlooks the waters of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Exmouth is a hub for water-based activities such as windsurfing, kiteboarding, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The Exe Estuary is an excellent location for these activities, and there are rental shops and schools for those looking to learn.
The Exe Estuary is a unique and protected natural area where you can spot a variety of bird species and enjoy scenic walks and bike rides along the Exe Estuary Trail.
Orcombe Point, located at the western end of Exmouth beach, is known for its striking red sandstone cliffs. The Exmouth Geoneedle, a marker, stands here and represents the beginning of the Jurassic Coast, displaying the geological history of the area.
The town center has a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants where you can enjoy shopping and dining. Exmouth also hosts regular markets and events.
Exmouth serves as a gateway to other interesting places in Devon, such as the historic city of Exeter and the beautiful East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Sidmouth
Sidmouth is a more traditional and relaxed place, making it one of the best seaside towns in Devon to visit. It’s famous for its beautiful gardens and Regency architecture.
Sidmouth boasts two main beaches, the pebble beach and Jacob’s Ladder Beach. These beaches are ideal for taking leisurely strolls, picnicking, and enjoying the coastal views. The pebble beach is also known for its traditional beach huts.
Jurassic Coast: Sidmouth is situated along the Jurassic Coast famous for its unique geology, fossils, and rock formations, making it a popular destination for geology enthusiasts.
These beautiful gardens overlook the sea and are perfect for a relaxing stroll. They are home to a variety of colorful flowers and plants and offer lovely views of the coastline.
The South West Coast Path runs through Sidmouth, offering spectacular walks along the coastline. The cliffs and cliffsides provide excellent vantage points to take in the natural beauty.
The town center offers a selection of independent shops, galleries, and charming tearooms and restaurants. You can enjoy fresh seafood and other local delicacies.
Dawlish
Known for its distinctive black swans and red sandstone cliffs, Dawlish is a tranquil and charming coastal town. The town is well connected by rail and has a popular seafront park.
Dawlish boasts a sandy beach, which is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. The beach is easily accessible and provides beautiful views of the sea.
Just to the northeast of Dawlish, you’ll find Dawlish Warren, a nature reserve and beach area. It’s a haven for birdwatching, and the sand dunes and wildlife are protected for conservation.
The small river known as “The Brook” flows through the center of Dawlish, and it is picturesque with its walkways and bridges, making it a pleasant place for a leisurely stroll.
Dawlish is famous for its resident black swans, which have become an iconic symbol of the town. You can often see these birds on the brook and in the town’s ponds.
Teignmouth
Located on the Teign Estuary, Teignmouth offers a long sandy beach, a traditional pier, and a variety of water-based activities.
Teignmouth boasts two main beaches, Teignmouth Beach and Shaldon Beach, which offer opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and watersports. The sandy shores and calm waters make them popular for families.
The River Teign flows through the town and forms an estuary that provides a lovely setting for walks and birdwatching. The estuary is also a great place for sailing and boating.
The Grand Pier at Teignmouth offers an array of amusements, arcades, and entertainment options. It’s a fun place to visit, especially for families.
Located on the opposite bank of the Teign Estuary, Shaldon Zoo is a small but well-regarded zoo that focuses on the conservation of rare and endangered species.
The town center features Georgian and Victorian architecture, including Regency-style buildings. It’s a pleasant place to explore, with a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Teignmouth is a popular destination for watersports enthusiasts. You can enjoy activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing in the estuary and along the coast.
Teignmouth is known for its welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals and one of the best seaside towns in Devon to visit.
Ilfracombe
This North Devon town is known for its dramatic coastal scenery, including the rugged cliffs at Hillsborough Hill and the iconic Tunnels Beaches. It’s also a departure point for boat trips to Lundy Island.
Ilfracombe’s harbor is a focal point of the town. It features a picturesque combination of fishing boats, pleasure craft, and waterfront restaurants. Visitors can take boat trips from the harbor to explore the North Devon coast.
One of the town’s most famous landmarks is the Verity statue, created by the British artist Damien Hirst. This striking 66-foot bronze sculpture stands at the entrance to the harbor and represents themes of truth and justice.
Ilfracombe has a unique feature called the Tunnels Beaches, which are a network of hand-carved tunnels leading to sheltered coves and tidal pools. They are a great spot for swimming and exploring.
Ilfracombe Aquarium features a variety of marine life and is an educational and entertaining attraction for visitors of all ages.
The Landmark Theatre is a contemporary arts venue with a striking design, offering a program of events, including music, theater, and comedy.
Hillsborough Nature Reserve islocated on the edge of town, this nature reserve provides walking trails and scenic viewpoints, offering panoramic views of Ilfracombe and the surrounding coast.
The town center has a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as traditional pubs serving local food.
Ilfracombe is a popular destination for visitors seeking a mix of natural beauty, artistic flair, and coastal charm.
Lynmouth
Part of the Exmoor National Park, Lynmouth is a picturesque village, rather than one of the seaside towns in Devon with a stunning location where the East and West Lyn Rivers meet the sea.
Lynmouth is often paired with its neighboring village of Lynton, and the two are collectively referred to as Lynton and Lynmouth.
Lynmouth is renowned for its natural beauty, nestled between steep cliffs and the dramatic coastline of Exmoor. The Lyn River flows through the village, adding to the picturesque scenery.
Lynmouth is connected to Lynton by the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, a funicular railway that offers stunning views as it climbs the steep hillside.
Located just outside Lynton, the Valley of Rocks is a remarkable geological formation featuring dramatic rock formations, rugged terrain, and opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching.
Lynmouth serves as a gateway to Exmoor National Park, offering numerous walking and hiking trails, including the South West Coast Path. The park is known for its diverse landscapes, from moorlands to woodlands and valleys.
The village has a selection of quaint shops, galleries, and cafes where you can enjoy local products and homemade treats.
The Exmoor Sculpture Trail showcases a series of contemporary sculptures set within the natural landscapes surrounding Lynton and Lynmouth.
Seaton
Located on the Jurassic Coast, Seaton offers a pebble beach, a tramway along the Axe Valley, and the Seaton Jurassic visitor centre, which showcases the geological history of the region.
Seaton’s pebble beach is a popular destination if you’re looking to relax by the sea, take a stroll along the promenade, and enjoy the views of the English Channel. It is also an excellent place for beachcombing and enjoying the coastal scenery.
The Seaton Tramway is a heritage tramway operating vintage trams that run through the Axe Valley, providing a unique and scenic way to explore the area’s natural beauty. The trams pass through wetlands, nature reserves, and offer panoramic views.
The Seaton Wetlands are a nature reserve offers birdwatching, walking trails, and opportunities to observe wildlife in a tranquil and beautiful wetland setting. It’s a great spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Seaton Jurassic visitor center and attraction provides interactive exhibits and information about the natural history and geology of the Jurassic Coast, allowing visitors to learn more about the area’s prehistoric past.
Seaton is a great place for those interested in the natural world, history, and outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for both a relaxing getaway and exploring the Jurassic Coast and one of the best seaside towns in Devon.
Devon
These are just a few of the delightful seaside towns in Devon you can explore. Each has its unique charm, whether you’re looking for family-friendly beaches, water sports, historic architecture, or simply a relaxing coastal escape.
For more on the region take a look at the 20 best seaside towns in Cornwall.
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