Salcombe North Sands Beach

Just a 15-minute level walk from the centre of Salcombe along scenic Cliff Road, Salcombe North Sands is one of the town's most popular beaches. This sheltered sandy bay is perfect for families, swimmers and anyone looking to relax beside the water, with beautiful views across the Kingsbridge Estuary and out towards the open sea.

The beach's calm waters make it ideal for paddling and swimming, while low tide reveals a wide stretch of sand and plenty of rock pools waiting to be explored. Whether you're building sandcastles, searching for crabs or simply enjoying the coastal scenery, North Sands offers a classic South Devon beach day.

Perfect for Families

Thanks to its sheltered location and gently sloping shoreline, North Sands is a favourite with families. Children will love exploring the rock pools at low tide, while the expansive sandy beach provides plenty of space for games and picnics before the tide returns.

Do bear in mind that the beach is almost completely covered at high tide, so it's worth checking tide times before your visit to make the most of the sand.

On the Big Screen

Salcombe North Sands recently gained international attention after featuring in The Roses, starring Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch. Filming took place on the beach, along nearby Cliff Road and at the much-loved Winking Prawn beach café, which was transformed into a fictional seafood restaurant for the production. Fans of the film can enjoy visiting the same picturesque location and soaking up the stunning coastal scenery that appeared on screen. You can read more about the South Devon locations featured in The Roses here.

Spectacular Coastal Views

North Sands enjoys stunning views across the Kingsbridge Estuary towards Sunny Cove on the East Portlemouth side, with far-reaching vistas out to sea past Wolf Rock. It's a peaceful spot to sit back and watch sailing boats come and go, making it just as popular with those looking to unwind as it is with beachgoers. The beach also provides easy access to the South West Coast Path, making it a great place to combine a coastal walk with time by the sea.

Facilities

Despite its peaceful setting, North Sands has everything you need for a comfortable day at the beach. Facilities include parking, toilets, disabled access and the popular Winking Prawn beach café, while Salcombe town centre is just a short walk away if you fancy exploring the shops, restaurants and harbour after your visit.

Dog-Friendly All Year Round

Unlike many beaches in the area, dogs are welcome at North Sands throughout the year, making it a popular choice for visitors exploring South Devon with their four-legged friends. The combination of sandy shoreline, rock pools and scenic coastal walks makes it a fantastic destination in every season.