Get Involved in a Beach Clean in South Devon

South Devon, with its stunning coastline, pristine beaches, and breathtaking natural beauty, is a dream destination for many. This region has long been a favourite spot for tourists and locals alike. However, like many coastal areas around the world, South Devon's beaches face a growing threat from plastic pollution and other debris. 

In recent years, South Devon's beaches have faced an increasing threat from pollution. Plastic waste, discarded fishing gear, and general litter have marred the natural beauty of these coastal treasures. The harmful effects of marine pollution are far-reaching, impacting not only the aesthetics of the beaches but also the health of the local wildlife and marine ecosystems. 

Thankfully, a growing community of environmentally conscious organisations and businesses have taken it upon themselves to protect South Devon's beaches. Beach cleans have become a crucial part of the effort to combat pollution and preserve our beautiful region. 

If you're passionate about preserving South Devon's stunning beaches and want to get involved in a beach clean, here’s a list of events taking place this September, as we celebrate #GreatBritishBeachClean week: 

The Big Visit South Devon Beach Clean 

14th September, Blackpool Sands 

Join us for our very first beach clean in collaboration with The 2 Minute Foundation! 

The clean-up will take place at Blackpool Sands at 10am on Thursday 14th September. The beach clean is free to attend and booking isn't essential (but it does help us to get a better idea of numbers!) 

If you're a local business you can also sponsor our beach clean for just £30pp and receive a corporate responsibility workshop from the 2 Minute Foundation filled with lots of fantastic ideas of things you can easily do to become more plastic free & a free lunch from Kendricks, Stoke Fleming. Plus, you'll have the chance to network with like-minded businesses! The beach clean is a public event and free for all to attend. 

You can also purchase your sponsorship tickets directly through Visit South Devon by contacting tia@visitsouthdevon.co.uk where you will be given an invoice if you need this for your business. 

Great British Beach Clean 2023 – Scoble Bay 

22nd September, Salcombe 

Join Nigel Mortimer, South Devon AONB Estuaries Officer and Gary Jolliffe from Till the Coast is Clear to collect, survey and record beach litter found along this bay as part of this national week of beach clean events. 

After the formal survey of this bay (that has been surveyed for over 20 years), the beach clean will continue along the adjacent shores as far as needed.  

St Mary’s Beach Clean 

15th September, Brixham 

Join this beach clean to help stop harmful litter from reaching the ocean and collect vital data that can be used to bring about positive change for our seas. Survey equipment and litter picking kit will be provided. Please bring your own gloves if you have them.  

Great British Beach Clean – Slapton 

16th September, Slapton Sands 

Challenge yourself to collect as much rubbish as you can at the Slapton Sands Great British Beach Clean. Weigh the rubbish you collect to see if you can get your name on the beach clean leader board! There will be free whippy ice cream, tea, or coffee for participants from the Start Bay Inn. 

Plastic Free Exmouth 

17th September, Blenny Bay 

This beach clean is open to all! Participants are asked to bring a suitable bag & gloves/picker. There will be a small number of bags available. Beach cleaners are free to meet up with other participants afterwards at Hangtime for a drink & chat about their finds.   

Parkdean Resorts Torquay Holiday Park Beach Clean 

20th September, Torre Abbey Sands 

Join Torquay Holiday Park - Parkdean Resorts for a big beach clean on the 20th of September. Participants are recommended to bring a rucksack with a few essentials like sunscreen, waterproofs, hand sanitiser, and perhaps some snacks and a drink (in a reusable bottle, of course). 

Seaton Beach Clean 

24th September, Seaton 

Xylem Water solutions have organised this beach clean as part of their Watermark program. Participants are asked to wear suitable footwear, as the beach is pebbles rather than sand, as well as protective gloves. 

South Devon's beaches are a treasure worth protecting, and beach cleans are the front line in the battle against pollution. Through the collective efforts of dedicated volunteers and organisations, these clean ups are helping to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty and serenity of this coastal paradise. 

So, roll up your sleeves, join the movement, and be a part of the solution in preserving the pristine beaches of South Devon! Together, we can make a difference and ensure that this natural wonderland remains unspoiled for years to come. 

If you do take part in a beach clean in South Devon this September, we'd love to see your photos! Simply tag us in your snaps using @VisitSouthDevon on Facebook, Twitter (X) and Instagram, and be sure to keep an eye out for our team photos at our very own The Big Visit South Devon Beach Clean!