Devon is undeniably one of the most popular areas for beachgoers across the country who like to enjoy their caravanning holidays to the full. There's no shortage of beaches in Devon, each one more beautiful than the last, and each with its unique charm and its own range of facilities for caravanners. For those who'd like to scout for some of the best coastal swimming spots, we've put together a list of beaches in Devon off the beaten track but stunning nonetheless:
Blackpool Sands
A crescent beach on the southern shore in Blackpool with coarse, burnt-golden sand that stretches over a half mile and is flanked by a steep and green cliffs, it's one of the beaches in Devon most loved by active families who like swimming and water sports. Not far from Blackpool Sands is a century-old garden accessible by foot. Unfortunately, no dogs are allowed in spring and summer, but the upside is that this wheel-chair and pushchair friendly nook is a bit cleaner and quieter for it. There are play sand pits, bathing rafts, baby-changing facilities and all manner of sports equipment for hire at the centre. There are holiday parks, caravan sites and campsites near the beaches and in the Stoke Flemming area, and there's also on-site parking.
South Sands Beach
Part of the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), South Sands in Salcombe is one of the smallest and most unspoilt beaches in the southwest, sheltered by its estuary. There's a caravan site within walking distance at Southern Mill Farm and one further off at Karrageen, as well as campsites near beaches here at South Sands and North Sands. There's also a car park a stone's throw away. This sandy cove, one of the beaches in Devon where divers go shipwreck hunting quite often, can also be reached by ferry from Salcombe's Whitestrand Quay. There's canoeing, sailing and windsurfing equipment for hire, and scuba divers are welcome to explore the estuary for those ancient shipwrecks, some of which date back from the Bronze Age.
Instow Beach
In northwest Devon, on the eastern shore of the River Torridge, lies Instow Beach with its fine and soft sand. At low tide, the water is very shallow and calm, and the beach is the perfect place to walk your dog, build sand castles or go kite flying. Towards the north, where River Torridge meets River Taw, there's a vast expanse of sand called Saunton Beach, only a half-hour drive away, and the road is lined with caravan and holiday parks.
Dawlish Warren Beach
This sandy beach lines the eastern flanks of the picturesque Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve, west of the banks of River Exe. Countless caravan and holiday parks are sprinkled across the riverside, towards Shutterton. There's no on-site parking, but like many of the beaches in the southwest, it's a short walk away from several campsites. Lifeguards serve the beach, making this blue flag awarded Dawlish Warren a favourite stamping ground for families, but there are dog restrictions in place from April to October.
