Beaches In and Around Dartmouth

 Dartmouth boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the South West. We have two lovely coves within walking distance from the town centre and others which are very easy to access via car or bus. Whether you’re looking for a beach to spend the day at with the family, or just looking for a place with the view to give the dog some exercise, we have plenty to choose from. Read on to find out about all the lovely beaches in and around Dartmouth. 

Castle Cove 

Castle Cove is situated around the corner from Dartmouth Castle. This secluded, quiet cove is a shingle beach with unbeatable views of the castle and the headlands that make up the mouth of the Dart estuary. Whilst the cove is completely covered at high tide, when the tide is low it’s the perfect place to spend the day at beach, being only a mile from the town centre. If you’re visiting Dartmouth with your four-legged friend, or if you’re just an eager dog-spotter, you’ll be happy to know that this beach is also dog friendly.  

Sugary Cove 

Next to Castle Cove is Sugary Cove, another remote, quiet shingle beach which can be accessed via the South West Coast Path from Dartmouth Castle. The path is winding and uneven in places, as well as containing some steep steps, but the views will certainly be rewarding. There is a lovely open grass area with some picnic benches on the way down, the perfect place to stop for lunch whilst admiring the view ahead.  

Blackpool Sands 

Located just a short distance from Dartmouth, Blackpool Sands is a stunning, Blue Flag Award-winning beach surrounded by luscious green countryside. The sheltered bay consists of golden shingle sand and crystal-clear waters, which is regularly tested by the Environmental Agency so it’s always pristine. The beach is very popular with families during the summer and is a great place to visit if you enjoy or want to try water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding. As well as having lots of great facilities, it’s secluded and warm so it’s the perfect place to experience the Mediterranean without having to go there! 

Slapton Sands and Torcross Beach 

A beautiful 3-mile stretch of shingle beach, Slapton Sands and Torcross Beach can be access from Dartmouth by car, bus or even on foot, if you’re looking to do something more active! The area sits within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the beach is backed by Slapton Ley, a freshwater lake and nature reserve, meaning there’s an abundance of wildlife to explore. It’s also a very popular spot with water sports-lovers due to its calm, clean waters. At Torcross there are plenty of places to grab an ice cream or a fresh portion of fish and chips to end your beach day in the proper way.  

Strete Gate Beach 

Between Blackpool Sands and Slapton, you’ll find Strete Gate Beach, a popular stretch of beach as the waters are calm and the area is sheltered by high cliffs at the northern end. The beach is scattered with beautiful wildflowers and the clear blue waters ooze tranquilly; you may even spot a seal or two bathing in the sea. At the beach you’ll find facilities such as toilets, a picnic area, and a seasonal ice cream van. You can access the beach from Slapton Beach, or there is easy access from the road and car park. 

We love to see you enjoying our wonderful beaches so if you visit any, make sure to share your photos with us by tagging @DiscoverDartmouth or using #DiscoverDartmouth on Instagram.