Category: Outdoors, Things to do

If you’re happiest by the water, Plymouth is the place to be. With an iconic sea lido, sheltered swim spots, sun-drenched boat trips, and easy‑to‑reach adventures on the Sound, it’s made for anyone who loves to be near (or in) the sea. 

      

1. Where to get in the water 

Tinside Lido is open in the high season, and when it is, it’s not a swim spot to be missed. Located right on the waterfront, this pool has some of the most incredible views of Plymouth Sound. Its crystal-clear water is perfect for a lazy swim on a summer’s day and the deckchairs are ideal for enjoying a well-deserved ice cream afterwards.  

Fun fact: it’s also been the backdrop to some iconic moments such as the celebration of 100 years of Rolls Royce’s Luxury Phantom, as well as Hello Sailor, the culmination of Jeremy Deller’s project ‘The Triumph of Art’.  

If you’d rather feel the sand between your toes, never fear, there are a few beautiful beaches nearby. Mount Batten is the closest and the best for sunset views. Bovisand Beach is not much further along and is bigger with a sandier beach. If you love to rockpool and investigate what goes on under the water, then go along the coast to Wembury Beach where at low tide you will find a huge number of rockpools. From here you can also walk the South West Coast Path to Wembury Point where you can find a much more secluded beach with views of the Mew stone. If you keep on going to Heybrook Bay, you can reward yourself with a pub lunch at The Eddystone Inn.  

There are also a few swim spots along the water, including the Pier One steps as well as Firestone Bay Pool. This is a great one if you have younger ones (or not so confident swimmers!) who want to experience the sea without feeling out of their depth. If you do go for a dip here, Harman Bagel is just around the corner outside of Royal William Yard and does some of the best bagels you will ever have.  

        

2. Boat trips and being on the water 

Sometimes the best way to appreciate Plymouth is to let someone else take the helm. From the Barbican and the harbour, Plymouth Boat Trips offers everything from short harbour cruises to longer journeys up the River Tamar, so you can watch the city, dockyard and countryside roll by from the comfort of the deck. 

For something a little different, look out for trips run in partnership with the Ocean Conservation Trust and the National Marine Aquarium. These sailings bring the story of Plymouth Sound to life, from the wildlife beneath the waves to the work going on to protect this unique natural harbour. If you love learning as much as you love sea air, they’re a great way to spend a morning or evening. 

                  

3. Try a new water sport 

If you’ve ever watched people gliding across Firestone Bay on paddleboards and felt a twinge of envy, this is your sign to give it a go with South West SUP. On a calm day, it’s a brilliant spot for paddleboarding, with sheltered water and an incredible backdrop of the Sound, Drake’s Island and the Breakwater beyond. 

For a bigger choice of activities, head over to Mount Batten. The watersports and activities centre here is one of the best bases for getting out on the water, offering sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding and more.    

                 

4. Walk the coast path  

You don’t always need to get wet to feel close to the sea. Some of the area’s best coastal walks start a short hop from the city and reward you with sweeping views and plenty of fresh air.  

The stretch of South West Coast Path between Wembury and Bovisand is a classic: a rolling clifftop route with the Sound on one side and fields on the other. Closer to the city, Jennycliff offers clifftop paths and panoramas back towards the city, ideal for a breezy afternoon stroll. 

If you don’t have transport, it’s not a problem. A wander along Plymouth Hoe will never disappoint, there’s Smeaton’s Tower, various viewpoints, and on most days, an ice cream van (no matter the season!).  

                        

5. Events 

If you love the idea of the sea but prefer to stay dry, you’re in good company. Plymouth has a whole calendar of waterfront moments that let you soak up the atmosphere without getting your feet wet. Taking place on 9 and 10 of May, Pirates Weekend brings costumed characters, sea shanties, tall ships and family activities to the Barbican and Sutton Harbour, turning the quayside into a playful nod to the city’s maritime past. Plymouth Boat Fest follows on 20 June, with displays, demonstrations and hands‑on activities that get you closer to what happens out on the water.  

In summer, the British Firework Championships turn Plymouth Sound into a huge natural stage. Over two dazzling evenings, competitors light up the sky while thousands gather on the Hoe and along the waterfront to watch the reflections dance on the water. 

As summer draws to a close, Seafest returns with a wide‑ranging programme along the waterfront, bringing together food, entertainment and opportunities to learn more about the marine environment that shapes Plymouth Sound National Marine Park. September also sees Plymouth confirmed as the home city of the WORLDSTAR Yacht Race, organised by the Royal Western Yacht Club, with spectators able to watch crews set off from Plymouth on 26 September as they begin their global challenge. 

For strong swimmers, there are events such as the Plymouth Breakwater Swim and the Plymouth Swim where you can compete against others and show off your skills.  

                            

6. Before you dive in... 

Before you head for the water, it’s worth taking a moment to plan. Always check local water safety advice and follow any signs on site – they’re there for a reason and conditions can change quickly. 

Tides and weather make a big difference to how safe and enjoyable your swim, paddle or coastal walk will be, so have a quick look at the forecast and tide times before you set off. If you’re swimming, stick to designated swim spots where possible, stay within your depth if you’re unsure, and make sure someone knows where you are. 

If you’re trying a new activity, book with a reputable provider, listen to the briefings and don’t be afraid to ask questions. A little preparation goes a long way to making sure your time in (or by) the sea in Plymouth is memorable for all the right reasons. 

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In partnership with GWR, Destination Plymouth’s lead travel partner

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