Exmouth Beaches

Overview

Exmouth is a fantastic choice for a beach holiday in Devon, known for its classic seaside charm. Situated at the western gateway to the famous Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, the town offers a quintessential British beach experience. Most visitors want to know if the main beach is sandy, and the answer is a resounding yes – Exmouth Beach boasts two miles of glorious golden sand, perfect for relaxing and playing.

The main Exmouth Beach is the heart of the action, ideal for families and a major hub for watersports like kitesurfing and paddleboarding. For those seeking something different, our editor's picks highlight the area's variety. Discover the unique pebble shores and tranquil atmosphere of Budleigh Salterton, or explore the fascinating blend of family beach and nature reserve at Dawlish Warren Beach. The sheltered cove of Sandy Bay offers another lovely sandy option, particularly popular with families.

Beyond sunbathing and sandcastles, swimming is a popular activity in the generally good quality waters off the main beach. Don't miss the dramatic cliffs and geological significance of Orcombe Point, marking the official start of the Jurassic Coast and offering stunning views. While not an editor's pick, some guides also feature the nearby Ladram Bay with its distinctive sea stacks, showcasing the geological wonders of the area. The town itself sits right alongside the main beach, making access incredibly easy.

Whether you're looking for bustling sands, watersport adventures, peaceful pebbles, or geological wonders, Exmouth's coastline has something to offer. From the main town beach to nearby coves and shores, the choices are plentiful. For a comprehensive look at all the options, be sure to explore our full guide to the best beaches in and around Exmouth.

FAQ

Is Exmouth good for a beach holiday?

Yes, Exmouth is a very popular destination for traditional seaside holidays in Devon. It's well-known for its long sandy beach, family-friendly atmosphere, watersports opportunities, and its position as the western gateway to the Jurassic Coast.

Exmouth Beach

Is Exmouth beach sandy or pebbly?

Exmouth beach is predominantly sandy, offering two miles of golden sand, especially expansive at low tide. While there might be some shingle or pebbles, particularly towards the eastern end near Orcombe Point, it's primarily known for its sand.

Exmouth Beach

Can you swim in the sea at Exmouth?

Yes, swimming is popular at Exmouth beach. There are designated bathing areas that are usually lifeguarded during the main season (typically May to September). The water quality is generally rated as good. As always, check local conditions, tide times, and safety flags before entering the water.

Exmouth Beach

What are the dog rules for Exmouth beach?

Dog restrictions apply seasonally on the main Exmouth beach. Dogs are typically banned from the central section (between the Octagon Kiosk and Maer Rocks) from 1st May to 30th September. However, dogs are usually allowed year-round on the sections at either end of the beach. Always check the local signage for the most current information and specific zones.

Exmouth Beach

Are there hotels or places to stay right on Exmouth beach?

While there aren't accommodations literally *on* the sand, numerous hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, and holiday apartments line the Esplanade, directly facing the beach with sea views and immediate access across the road. Holiday parks like Haven Devon Cliffs offer direct access to Sandy Bay.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Exmouth Beach

Sandy Bay

Where's the best place to park for Exmouth beach?

There are several large pay-and-display car parks located along Queen's Drive, which runs parallel to the main beach. Options include the Queen's Drive Echelon car park and the Esplanade car park. Parking can fill up quickly, especially during summer weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended.

Exmouth Beach

Is Exmouth beach good for families with children?

Exmouth beach is widely considered excellent for families. It offers a vast sandy area for playing, relatively safe swimming zones (lifeguarded in season), rock pools to explore at low tide near Maer Rocks, and easy access to toilets, cafes, ice cream kiosks, and amusements along the Esplanade.

Exmouth Beach

What watersports can you do at Exmouth?

Exmouth is a major centre for watersports in Devon, benefiting from conditions on both the sea and the Exe Estuary. Popular activities include kitesurfing, windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking, sailing, and jet skiing (in designated areas). Several local companies offer equipment hire and lessons.

People Also Ask

What's the difference between Exmouth beach and Sandy Bay?

Exmouth Beach is the main town beach, stretching for two miles along the Esplanade with easy access and numerous facilities. Sandy Bay is a separate, more sheltered beach located further east, past Orcombe Point. It's largely associated with the Devon Cliffs holiday park situated above it, though public access is available via paths.

Exmouth Beach

Sandy Bay

Are there quieter beaches near Exmouth?

Yes, if you find the main beach too busy, you could head east along the coast path towards Budleigh Salterton (a pebble beach) or explore smaller coves. Alternatively, the Exe Estuary side offers different waterside experiences that are often less crowded than the main seafront.

Budleigh Salterton

Exmouth Beach

Can you walk to the beach from Exmouth town centre?

Absolutely. Exmouth beach runs directly alongside the town's seafront (the Esplanade). It's a very easy and flat walk from the main shopping streets, the train station, and many central accommodation options.

Exmouth Beach

Are there toilets and cafes available at Exmouth beach?

Yes, public toilets are conveniently located at several points along the Esplanade fronting the beach. There's also a wide variety of cafes, restaurants, pubs, takeaways, and ice cream kiosks situated along the seafront and in the adjacent town centre.

Exmouth Beach

Is Exmouth beach accessible for pushchairs or wheelchairs?

The Esplanade promenade running alongside Exmouth beach is flat, paved, and generally very accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs. There are several ramps providing access down onto the beach itself, although moving on the soft sand can be difficult. Check with Exmouth Tourist Information about potential beach wheelchair hire.

Exmouth Beach

What's the tide like at Exmouth beach? Does it go out far?

Exmouth experiences a large tidal range, meaning the sea retreats a significant distance at low tide. This reveals a vast expanse of firm sand, ideal for walking and playing, as well as rock pools near Maer Rocks. It's important to check tide times, especially for swimming or watersports.

Exmouth Beach

Is Exmouth beach part of the Jurassic Coast?

Yes, Exmouth marks the western end of the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site, which stretches 95 miles to Old Harry Rocks in Dorset. The distinctive red mudstone cliffs are visible, and Orcombe Point at the eastern end of the beach features the 'Geoneedle' sculpture, officially marking the start of this significant coastline.

Exmouth Beach