Discover the Best Beaches in South West England
Planning a trip to the South West of England? Use our coastal guide to discover beautiful beaches in Cornwall, Somerset, Devon and Dorset.
Beaches on the South West Coast
South West England has one of the most beautiful coastlines in the land, and includes the counties of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset. This corner of England serves up a bounty of coastal treasures. From charming harbour towns and villages to rugged coastal cliffs and sweeping sandy bays, the beaches are enjoyed by families, surfers and nature lovers alike.
Best sandy & family beaches
Explore by County & Area
Somerset Beaches
Discover the beautiful Somerset coast with lovely beaches and charming seaside villages. Enjoy coastal activities, walks and a more relaxed atmosphere away from the busiest resorts.
Dorset Beaches
Explore Dorset beaches on the famous Jurassic Coast – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the UK’s most popular fossil-hunting area. Expect dramatic cliffs, iconic rock formations such as Durdle Door, and a mix of sandy and shingle shores.
South Cornwall Beaches
Visit South Cornwall and the Lizard Peninsula for amazing beaches, turquoise water and charming coastal villages and towns. Standouts include Kynance Cove and other photogenic coves.
View all South Cornwall beaches →
North Devon Beaches
Take in the stunning beaches on the North Devon Coast, much of which is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Wide sandy stretches such as Woolacombe and Saunton Sands are ideal for families and surfers.
View all North Devon beaches →
North Cornwall Beaches
The rugged Atlantic coast of North Cornwall is home to superb beaches and the UK’s famous surfing capital, Newquay. Expect powerful waves, long sandy beaches and lively seaside towns.
View all North Cornwall beaches →
South West Cornwall Beaches
Discover the gorgeous sandy beaches of the Cornish Riviera and the hidden coves of the Roseland Peninsula. A mix of family-friendly stretches and quieter spots.
View all South West Cornwall beaches →
South Devon Beaches
Head to the beautiful South Devon Coast for secluded coves, family-friendly destinations and the famous beaches of the English Riviera (Torquay, Paignton and Brixham area).
View all South Devon beaches →
West Cornwall Beaches
Looking for beaches in St Ives, near Land’s End or St Michael’s Mount? Head to West Cornwall and follow the coastline for golden sands, surfing spots and iconic views.
View all West Cornwall beaches →
South East Cornwall Beaches
Travel to the beautiful South East Cornish coastline and visit a range of popular seaside resorts, harbour towns and quieter coves.
Escape to the Beautiful Beaches of the South West Coast of England
The South West coast of England is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK, with charming harbour towns, rugged coastal cliffs, and sweeping sandy bays. Dorset is home to the stunning Jurassic Coast – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the UK’s most popular fossil hunting area.
Explore the beautiful Somerset coast and its charming seaside villages, or the stunning beaches of the Lizard Peninsula in South Cornwall.
The North Devon Coast, much of which is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is another must-visit destination, as is the rugged Atlantic coast of North Cornwall and its famous surfing capital, Newquay.
For something more remote, head to the the Roseland Peninsula in South West Cornwall, or the beautiful South Devon Coast and its famous beaches of the English Riviera.
COASTAL ACTIVITIES
Go Surfing in the South West of England
Learn to surf. Find surf schools all around the South West.
Walk the South West Coast
Follow the coastline of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset, jam-packed with world famous locations to tiny hidden coves. If you are a lover of long distance hiking, the South West Coast is for you. The full length of the South West Coast Path is 630 miles and is the longest waymarked walking path.
UK Beach Guide
Go to the Beach Guide
Go to another region and explore