Locals know to give the county’s most popular beaches a miss in high summer and instead head to these secluded spots. Pin these hidden beaches in Devon on your GoogleMaps …
Broad Sands Beach, north Devon
A little further along the coast from much-loved Saunton Sands and Croyde Bay, Broad Sands makes a fantastic alternative to north Devon’s popular beaches. The shingle cove is a favourite with sea swimmers who love to explore the caves which appear at low tide. Why so quiet? Visitors need to navigate over 200 steps to reach the beach (and the same back up), but it’s well worth the effort.
Bigbury Beach, south Devon
This south Devon beach may not be ‘hidden’ but at low tide the sea reveals something rather special. Bigbury Beach is watched over by a stunning Art Deco Hotel which sits atop of Burgh Island and, when the tide is out, a sandy causeway appears allowing beachgoers to walk over. Time your visit for an afternoon tipple at the island’s ancient pub The Pilchard Inn and, if you lose track of time, you can get the sea tractor back to the mainland.
Beer, east Devon
Visit this grey-pebbled beach near the Dorset border on a late summer afternoon and there’s a good chance you’ll watch locals comparing their mackerel catch from the bevvy of boats which line the shore. Beer is usually a lot quieter than its neighbours such as Budleigh and Lyme Regis, and the lively village with friendly pubs make it a great day trip. If you’re up for a walk, you can wander over the cliffs to Branscombe.
Soar Mill Cove, south Devon
Visit Soar Mill Cove on a sunny day and you could easily be in the Med. The idyllic cove is a stone’s throw from the yachty town of Salcombe, yet few tourists know that this gorgeous beach is just a short drive away. Stay at the namesake hotel and in the early evening there’s a good chance you’ll have the beach to yourself.
Barricane Beach, north Devon
Locals and in-the-know visitors make an early evening trip to this north Devon beach in summer. However it’s not just the gorgeous sunsets and sea glass finds they flock here for, it’s also the fragrant Sri Lankan curries which are being served from the tiny hut which looks out over the water. Arrive early or risk getting serious food FOMO when they sell out.
