The best secret swimming spots in south Devon
South Devon is known for many things, but chief amongst them is its beauty – so much so that you can’t help but dive right in – literally, in some cases.
There’s no shortage of wild swimming spots in this holiday haven, which spans 120 miles of coastline and more than 50 beaches ranging from hidden coves to expansive bays. Amongst them are the most popular destinations, like North Sands which sits beside The Winking Prawn restaurant (recently featured in the movie, The Roses); and South Milton Sands with its iconic rock archway.
What if you’re looking for something a little off the beaten track, however? Away from the tourists, so you can swim to your heart ‘s content are some of our favourite (finest) secret swimming spots.
The finest South Devon secret swimming spots
What makes for a finest secret swimming spot? Perhaps somewhere away from the madding crowd – with a little adventure thrown in to get there. There’s always a bit of magic to these places, each one holding a place in our hearts for their own reason. Some have beautiful walks to reach them, while others are home to dramatic rock formations, breathtaking wildlife, and some have a nearby foodie favourite to head to after a day splashing in the sea.
Wild swimming at Soar Mill Cove, near Salcombe
Soar Mill Cove might be near the buzz of Salcombe, but it feels a million miles away. A hidden gem on the South West Coast Path, it’s tucked at the bottom of the cliffs, accessible only on foot. Wiggle your way down the footpath from Bolberry Down or the Soar Mill Cove Hotel (excellent for an afternoon tea on your way home), it’s dog-friendly and perfect for the kind of beach day that Enid Blyton would be proud of.
Riverside retreat at Cellar Beach, Noss Mayo
Close to Noss Mayo, Cellar Beach is a small, pebble and sand strewn jewel on the banks of the River Yealm. A woodland walk brings you to the cove, where dogs are welcome throughout the year, and you scramble down the path to a little world of your own. It’s around a 40-minute walk from Noss Mayo itself, and for those in the mood for adventure you can also carry on along the coast path up to Gara Point.
A hidden cove at Gara Rock Beach, East Portlemouth
Across the estuary from Salcombe, Gara Rock Beach sits in a secluded spot accessible only on foot. Flanked by rugged cliffs and blessed with golden sand, it’s the kind of place you can frequently expect to have to yourselves, replete with tiny caves and crystal clear waters that are perfect for snorkelling. For those with a boat, it’s a great one for reaching by water, or head out for the day from Salcombe by hopping on the East Portlemouth Ferry and making your way along the coast path.
A coast path hideaway at Wonwell Beach, Erme Estuary
On the east shore of the Erme River, Wonwell Beach invites you to explore a sandy expanse that’s perfect for running around and building sandcastles. There is a small car park, with a slipway from the road to the shore, and if you catch it when the tide’s out you can stroll along the edge of the river. Just remember to keep an eye on the tide and that part of the reason this place is a hidden gem is it’s just you and the natural world – not a facility in sight.
Wildlife watchers at Sugary Cove, Dartmouth
Worth a visit for the name alone, Sugary Cove is the kind of picturesque beauty spot that South Devon is famous for. The pebble beach is a bit of a local favourite (so don’t go telling everyone about it), accessible via a steep walk from the nearby car park or Dartmouth Castle. As it’s not entirely accessible, it’s not ideal for mobility problems or pushchairs, but once you’re there it’s a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, fishing, rock pooling, swimming and snorkelling. See if you can spot oyster catchers, dolphins and seals while you’re there!
Private retreat at Mothecombe Beach, near Holbeton
Also known as Meadowsfoot, Mothecombe Beach, near Holbeton is a privately owned beach on the Erme estuary. Part of the Flete Estate, you can only visit on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, finding a well-kept destination complete with a large car park, toilets, and a tea shop close by. Reach it via a woodland path from the car park, and find a beach that’s perfect for classic seaside entertainment – building sandcastles, rock pooling, and swimming in sheltered waters. It’s worth remembering that dogs aren’t allowed on Mothecombe Beach from 1st May to 30th September, so it’s a good one for four-legged friends in the winter.
Hidden histories at Elberry Cove, Paignton
Not far from the town of Paignton, Elberry Cove is a small, pebble beach, tucked away from the hustle and bustle and accessible only on foot. You can park at Broadsands and stroll along the coastal path to get here, enjoying the storybook scenery before arriving at the cove, flanked by woodland. Unusually, this is a beach with a dedicated water skiing lane (where you can’t swim), and history lovers will delight in the 18th-century ruin that was once Lord Churston’s bathhouse. Perhaps unsurprisingly, this enchanting place is also rumoured to have been a favourite haunt of author Agatha Christie, whose holiday home, Greenway, is close by.
Pebble perfection at Beesands Beach, Beesands
Just along the coast from the better known Slapton Sands and Torcross Beach, Beesands Beach is a quiet stretch of shingle that flanks a small fishing village. Offering rugged landscapes and uninterrupted views of the water, drive down little country roads to get there, and find a peaceful destination that you will never want to leave. Spend the day enjoying the water, walk with the dog along the stretch of shingle, grab breakfast baps at Britannia at The Beach, and make sure you head for dinner at The Cricket Inn for locally caught fish and fresh fare. There’s something really old school about Beesands – like stepping back to a simpler time.
Secret swims at Ayrmer Cove, Ringmore Valley
In the right light the rock formations that flank Ayrmer Cove make you feel as though you’re walking on the moon, such is their silvery appearance. Close to the village of Ringmore, home to the Journey’s End Inn, it’s roughly a 20-minute walk from a nearby car park, down the narrow coastal path. Once you’re there, discover a beautiful sandy beach with interesting rock pools replete with starfish, sea anemones, and small crabs, as well as plenty of photo opportunities. For those who fancy a bit more of a walk while you’re here, you can also continue along the coast path towards Challaborough Beach, Bigbury-on-Sea and Burgh Island, or do a circular loop along a woodland track.
Devon holiday homes by the sea
The Devon dream is to stay in a holiday home just a hop, skip and a jump from the sand, and at Finest Stays we seek out the very best, from beachside boltholes to views that stretch as far as the eye can see. Here are a few standout Devon holiday homes by the sea to put on your wishlist.
Sands Edge, South Sands
For an ultra-modern retreat right by the beach, it’s hard to beat Sands Edge. Overlooking South Sands on the outskirts of Salcombe, you can hop on the characterful South Sands Ferry to head into town, or simply spend your time enjoying easy access to the sand, complete with water sports and a cup of coffee at Bo’s Beach Cafe. The apartment offers open plan living and dining, plenty of space to relax, a private balcony, and two bedrooms sleeping up to four guests.
Little Pebble, East Portlemouth
Classic coastal living is the order of the day at Little Pebble – the perfectly named one-bedroom bolthole that’s ideal for exploring the best Devon swimming beaches, coast path, and settling into a slower pace of life. A romantic hideaway for up to two people, it’s located at East Portlemouth, giving you easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches in the South Hams. Pack a picnic and head out for the day before returning for the most peaceful night’s rest you could ask for.
The Devon Farmhouse, Kingsbridge
With its own woodland wild swimming spot, The Devon Farmhouse is a dreamy country retreat just outside Kingsbridge, offering a central location for exploring everything the South Hams has to offer. That said, it’s so lovely you might never leave the property itself, with its rustic-modern aesthetic, neighbouring 100-acre Bluebell Wood, log burners for chilly nights, a paddock to run around in, and four bedrooms for a restorative night’s sleep.
The Lanterns, Hope Cove
Within The Lanterns – a contemporary collection of properties a short walk from Hope Cove‘s two beautiful swimming beaches – Carswell Quarters is a luxurious first floor apartment offering style, sophistication, and spectacular views. Sleeping up to four people, it’s the ultimate in holiday havens, welcoming four-legged friends, and with immediate access to the coastal path. There’s no need to get in the car for your entire holiday with a popular pub, a cafe and two beaches right on the doorstep.
Like we said, the South West is known for its natural beauty, and its beaches are chief amongst its prized attributes, with enough to keep you exploring for years to come. Visit secret swimming spots and South Devon hidden coves, and decide for yourself which one’s your favourite on your next South Devon getaway.
