Thurlestone Beach

Are the usual summer crowds driving you crazy when all you want to do is chill out and relax? If you want something a little more laid back then Thurlestone could be the answer. It’s made up of two main beaches - the smaller one is next to the Golf Club while the larger beach is slightly further along the coast towards South Milton. Both beaches are sheltered and the waters are shallow enough for the kids to splash about in.

Unspoilt Surroundings

If you’re after a brash, commercial style holiday with theme parks, rides and hordes of holidaymakers then Thurlestone isn’t for you. But it’s perfect if you just want to relax and enjoy an old-school family holiday in unspoilt surroundings. Thurlestone is part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has won an award from the Marine Conservation Society thanks to its clear, clean waters. But to give you a little extra peace of mind there are lifeguards on duty between May and September. While you’re there, take the time to check out Thurlestone Rock, an ancient arch-shaped formation that was immortalised by Turner and is best seen at high tide.

Where to Find Facilities

Thurlestone doesn’t have that many facilities but South Milton, which is just around the corner, has toilets, a beachside café and a wide range of water sports on offer such as kayaking, canoeing and wind-surfing. Access to the beach is down a single-track lane for the last two and a half miles and there are plenty of car parks that charge around £2 to £3 for a day’s stay. On the downside, access for the disabled isn’t that good. If you have someone with mobility restrictions in your group, then you might want to head for South Milton Sands instead, where access to the beach is better.

Thurlestone is a dog-friendly beach, so you can bring the pooch at any time of year. There are, however, strict anti-fouling laws in place to help keep the beaches in pristine condition. Ultimately, Thurlestone is the perfect beach if you want to enjoy a little slice of South Devon without the noise and bustle of the usual summer crowds.