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Plymouth is a city wild about nature, where spending time outdoors is just part of the way of life. With the stunning Devon coastline right on the doorstep, summer is the perfect time to unwind on one of the many beautiful beaches nearby. Beyond the well-known ones, there are some real hidden gems which are waiting to be explored. Dive into our guide to uncover five beautiful beaches that are well worth exploring.
Mothecombe/ Coastguard Beach
Head to the Mothecombe estate car park and go to the rear of the car park to get the beaches, either head straight for the Coastguard Beach (dog-friendly all year!) or go to the right through the gate towards Mothecombe. The Coastguard Beach is named after the old coastguard cottages nearby and tends to be slightly more peaceful. It also has a slipway which makes it slightly more accessible for buggies and easier for those with kayaks and paddleboards.
Mothecombe is a five-to-ten-minute walk from the car park, it’s a large sandy beach which is perfect for building sandcastles. At low tide, there are also plenty of rock pools which are great for exploring. The car park takes cash and card payments, on the grounds is the Old Schoolhouse which has toilets and serves up delicious food and drink.
Wonwell Beach
Wonwell is a real hidden treasure. Tucked on the east side of the River Erme, it’s quiet and wild, with lots of sandbanks when the tide is out. This is the kind of place where you can just relax, explore, and enjoy nature without many people around. It’s a bit off the beaten path, with no facilities and limited parking, so bring everything you need. Dogs are welcome here all year round, and if you time it right with the tides, you can even walk to Mothecombe beach from here. Just be careful of the tides - you don't want to get stuck!
Wembury Point
For something a little different to the busy main Wembury Beach, head to Wembury Point just a short way west. It’s quieter, more rugged, and has a fantastic little natural sea pool that fills up at high tide and offers sheltered waters for paddling. It’s perfect for families with kids or anyone who loves exploring rock pools and spotting sea creatures. Wembury Point can either be accessed by walking from Wembury point down the hill, Wembury Beach, or Heybrook Bay. The views out to the Mewstone Island are something special, and you’ll likely find the space to spread out and unwind.
Bovisand Beach (Crownhill Bay)
Bovisand’s two bays are favourites for locals and visitors alike. While the main beach gets its fair share of visitors, Crownhill Bay tends to be a bit calmer and just as lovely. It’s a great place to relax with plenty of sand and stunning views across Plymouth Sound National Marine Park. Nearby, you’ll find toilets, cafés, and parking that’s pay-and-display. Dogs are not allowed during the summer months, but they are allowed at Bovsiand year-round.
Bantham Beach
Bantham Beach is a stunning and spacious sandy bay nestled in the South Hams, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. It’s the perfect place for families, surfers, and anyone looking to unwind by the sea. The beach is made up of gently sloping sands that reveal shallow pools and plenty of rock pools at low tide, great for kids to splash around and explore marine life. Bantham is one of South Devon’s best surfing spots, with gentle waves ideal for beginners as well as challenging breaks for experienced surfers. It lies opposite the ever-popular Bigbury Beach.
It’s worth noting that the drive down to Bantham Beach along narrow, winding country lanes can be a bit challenging, so take your time and enjoy the scenic but slow pace.
No matter which beach you choose, you’re set for a great day soaking up some of South Devon’s best-kept coastal secrets. Just remember to bring what you need, check the tides, and take your rubbish home so everyone can enjoy these beautiful spots for years to come.
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In partnership with GWR, Destination Plymouth’s lead travel partner
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