Shaldon Beach

Shaldon beach has the lot – great facilities, plenty of water sports and a host of other attractions that’ll keep everyone entertained right through the holiday. Located at the mouth if the River Teign, it’s a gently sloping mix of sand and shingle that levels out at the river estuary. It’s a popular beach during the summer, but if you fancy a quieter time its sheltered position makes it a great destination during the off-peak season too.

Attractions and Walks

Shaldon beach is where you’ll find some of the most spectacular coastline in South Devon. Because of its location and the way the sands have formed, it’s perfect for a number of water sports including sailing, fishing, swimming, canoeing and rowing, but bear in mind that Shaldon beach is not patrolled by lifeguards.

However, if getting wet isn’t your style, there’s plenty more to do and see on dry land. Shaldon is close to attractions such as the Shaldon Wildlife Trust, Dartmoor and Haytor and Homeyards Botanical Gardens. Alternatively, you can challenge yourself on the Templar way - an 18 mile walk that follows the export route for granite taken from Dartmoor, passing along the Haytor Granite tramway and the Stover canal, before finally passing through Newton Abbot towards Teignmouth and Shaldon.

Travel Further Afield

South Devon is a very arty-crafty place, with plenty to check out for culture vultures. There’s a beachside Craft Fair held during the summer months and watch out for the Water Carnival in August – an event that kids will love. If you want to explore the local area but don’t want to take the car, you can travel to Teignmouth on the oldest passenger ferry in England and get stuck into some serious people watching in the various cafés, restaurants and bars.

There’s plenty of accommodation available in area, ranging from hotels and luxury apartments to self-catering cottages and picturesque campsites. Exeter is just 20 minutes drive away and you can also get there on public transport. Here, you can indulge in a spot of retail therapy and explore the historic Roman Walls that still surround the city.