Mill Bay is the largest sandy beach in Salcombe situated opposite the town across the estuary. With its easy access by boat or by car, the huge expanse of dry sand, and public facilities close by, this is one of the most popular beaches in Salcombe.
Getting to Mill Bay from Salcombe
The easiest way to find Mill Bay from Salcombe is to jump onto the Ferry from Salcombe and cross to the other side. (You can read our article on The Salcombe Ferry Lowdown to learn more). From the ferry, walk along the foreshore keeping the sea to your right. First, you will pass Smalls which is a beach with lots of dinghies tucked away at the back of it. Keep going to reach Mill Bay – it is the next big beach – huge with plenty of space to find your own picnic spot for the day!
If the tide is in and you can’t walk along the foreshore, head up the steps from the ferry slipway and walk along the road which runs parallel to the water. Keep walking until you reach the back of a very large beach!
Driving to Mill Bay
Mill Bay is approximately 8 miles from Kingsbridge and 20 miles from Plymouth. The roads get very narrow as you approach the village of East Portlemouth where the beach is situated, but there is (limited) parking at a National Trust car park once you get to Mill Bay.
What to do at Mill Bay?
Other than the obvious activities of playing in the water, building sandcastles or feasting on a picnic, there are a few little gems you can enjoy.
At the back of the beach is a small stream filtered down through the nearby valley. Take along a spade for children to have fun building dams to catch the water (and then enjoy the floods as dam walls break!)
The back of Mill Bay connects you up to the South West Coast Path. The coastline is stunning and well worth exploration.
Our favorite walk is a loop taking in Gara Rock where there is a restaurant for refreshments or a meal. Dogs very welcome.
What else can you find at Mill Bay?
In the summer months there is the fabulous Lollapalooza van tucked away under the trees at the back of the beach selling ice-creams, crisps, hot and cold drinks, and crepes. They are a very friendly bunch!
Next to the car park are public toilets which are free to use.
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