Best Pubs with Sea Views in South Devon

There’s nothing quite like unwinding at a pub after a day by the sea – pint in hand, salty air in your lungs, and the sense that you’re exactly where you’re meant to be. Devon’s coastline is dotted with fantastic pubs, some with sweeping sea or estuary views, others tucked just a few steps away from the water’s edge. From Salcombe and Dartmouth to Bantham, Beesands and beyond, here are some of the best coastal pubs to discover on your next trip.

The Hope & Anchor, Hope Cove

Set just steps from the sand, the Hope & Anchor is a true seaside favourite. Its spacious terrace looks straight out across the sheltered bay of Hope Cove, perfect for soaking up the sun or watching the tide roll in. Expect classic pub food with a fresh, coastal twist, and a welcoming atmosphere that captures the spirit of this charming village.

The Ship Inn, Noss Mayo

Nestled on the water’s edge in the village of Noss Mayo, The Ship Inn is a pub with estuary views that are hard to beat. When the tide’s in, the water laps just below the terrace, creating a magical setting. Pair that with excellent food and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and you’ll see why it’s a South Devon favourite.

Britannia @ The Beach, Beesands

Known affectionately as “the shack”, Britannia @ The Beach is more café-meets-pub than traditional inn, but its reputation is unmatched. Right on the shingle beach at Beesands, it serves the freshest catch landed by local fishermen just yards away. With views across Start Bay and the sound of the sea as your soundtrack, this is a dining experience that feels uniquely South Devon.

The Start Bay Inn, Torcross

Famous for its fish and chips, the Start Bay Inn is a family-run pub sitting right on Slapton Sands in Torcross. The views from the windows and benches outside stretch across the three-mile beach, making it one of the most quintessential coastal pubs in the county. It’s the perfect spot after a walk around Slapton Ley or along the South West Coast Path.

The Ferry Boat Inn, Dittisham (near Dartmouth)

While Dartmouth itself is brimming with eateries and pubs, for estuary views it’s worth heading upriver to Dittisham, home to the Ferry Boat Inn (known locally as the FBI). With colourful décor, hearty food, and a terrace looking straight onto the River Dart, it’s a delightful place to watch boats drift past and soak up riverside life.

The Royal Castle Hotel, Dartmouth

Right in the heart of Dartmouth, overlooking the harbour, the Royal Castle Hotel combines history with a lively atmosphere. Its stylish bar and waterside location make it a prime spot for enjoying estuary views while sipping a local ale or glass of wine.

The Dartmouth Arms, Dartmouth

Sitting just by Bayard’s Cove, The Dartmouth Arms is a laid-back pub with one of the best locations in town. Just a few steps from the waterfront, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the historic maritime atmosphere of Dartmouth while enjoying hearty pub food and local beers.

The Ferry Inn, Salcombe

Set on the waterfront in Salcombe, The Ferry Inn is a landmark pub with unbeatable views of the estuary and sandy beaches beyond. Its terrace is a sought-after spot in summer, buzzing with visitors enjoying fresh seafood, drinks, and the lively Salcombe atmosphere.

The Millbrook, South Pool

Hidden away in the idyllic village of South Pool, The Millbrook is a gem of a pub with a timeless feel. While it’s tucked slightly inland, the estuary is just a short walk away, and many visitors arrive by boat at high tide. With low beams, cosy corners, and a menu celebrating local produce, it’s a favourite among those who know this quiet corner of the South Hams well.

The Crabshell Inn, Kingsbridge

Although Kingsbridge is an estuary town rather than a seaside one, The Crabshell Inn offers some of the best waterside dining in the South Hams. Its wide terrace spills out onto the quayside, where paddleboarders and boats drift by. Known for wood-fired pizzas and a relaxed vibe, it’s a firm favourite with locals and holidaymakers alike.

The Cary Arms, Babbacombe Bay, Torquay

Nicknamed the “Inn on the Beach”, The Cary Arms combines boutique charm with a traditional inn feel. Its position on Babbacombe Bay offers sweeping sea views, whether you’re sat on the terrace in summer or tucked inside beside the fire in winter. With fine dining, local ales, and luxurious style, it’s a destination pub with serious coastal credentials.

The Sloop Inn, Bantham

Overlooking the Avon Estuary and just a short stroll from Bantham Beach, The Sloop Inn is a classic Devon pub that oozes charm. With beams, fireplaces, and a welcoming bar, it’s a favourite with surfers, walkers, and families alike. After a day by the sea, there’s nowhere better for a hearty meal and a drink.

The King’s Arms, Strete

Perched above Start Bay, The King’s Arms in Strete offers panoramic sea views alongside a cosy, traditional pub setting. The food is hearty and locally sourced, and the views from this elevated spot stretch for miles, making it a wonderful stop while exploring the South Hams coastline.

The Ship Inn, Kingswear

Overlooking the Dart Estuary from the Kingswear side, The Ship Inn offers a fantastic vantage point across to Dartmouth. Its waterside location and sunny terrace make it an inviting place to enjoy a drink while watching the bustle of boats on the river.

The Beachhouse, South Milton Sands

Set just steps from the sand at South Milton, The Beachhouse is a laid-back spot with rustic charm. Wooden benches, surfboards stacked outside, and unbeatable views across the beach to Thurlestone Rock make it the ultimate relaxed seaside eatery. Seafood is a highlight here, with dishes designed for sharing after a day on the beach.

The Village Inn, Thurlestone

Sitting in the heart of Thurlestone village but close enough to stroll down to the water, The Village Inn offers cosy interiors and a charming garden with views that stretch towards the coast. It’s a quintessential Devon pub, ideal for hearty food after a day exploring nearby South Milton Sands and Thurlestone Beach.

The Dolphin Inn, Newton Ferrers

Just across the water from Noss Mayo, The Dolphin Inn is another South Hams gem. A short stroll from the Newton Creek estuary, it’s a cosy pub full of character, with a reputation for good food and a warm welcome. It’s particularly popular with walkers and those arriving by boat, adding to its classic coastal charm.

A toast to Devon’s coastline

From clifftop inns with dramatic sea views to charming village pubs just a stone’s throw from the sand, South Devon has a coastal pub to suit every mood. Whether you’re watching paddleboarders drift past Kingsbridge, tucking into fish and chips on Slapton Sands, or raising a glass as the sun sets in Salcombe, these pubs prove that food, drink, and the coast go hand in hand.

Exploring them is not just about what’s on the menu – it’s about the setting, the stories, and the unbeatable coastal atmosphere that makes Devon such a joy to visit.