Paignton Beaches

Overview

Welcome to Paignton, a classic seaside resort nestled on the English Riviera in sheltered Tor Bay. Known for its friendly atmosphere, Paignton is a favourite destination for beach holidays, particularly appealing to families. The town is famed for its long, inviting beaches, many featuring distinctive local red sand, offering the perfect setting for a traditional British seaside experience.

The heart of the action is often found at Paignton Sands, the main town beach complete with a classic pier and easy access. Just along the coast lies Goodrington Sands, another hugely popular and expansive sandy stretch ideal for swimming and sunbathing. These beaches provide ample space for relaxation and seaside fun. Many visitors also enjoy the sandy shores of Preston Sands, located just north of the main beach.

For a different vibe, head to Broadsands Beach, instantly recognisable by its row of colourful beach huts lining the large sandy bay. If you're seeking tranquility and scenic beauty, the peaceful pebble shores of Elberry Cove offer a wonderful escape. Paignton truly offers a variety of coastal experiences, from bustling main beaches to more secluded spots.

Whether you prefer the lively atmosphere near the town centre or the charm of a quieter cove, Paignton has a beach to suit your style. Explore our full guide to discover more details about these editor's picks and find other beautiful beaches dotted along this picturesque stretch of the South Devon coast.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Paignton good for a beach holiday?

Yes, Paignton is very popular for beach holidays, especially for families. It's known as a traditional seaside resort town within the English Riviera, offering long sandy beaches, a pier, promenade, and numerous attractions. Its sheltered position in Tor Bay and mild climate add to its appeal as a classic UK beach destination.

What kind of holiday is Paignton best for - families or couples?

Paignton is particularly well-suited for family holidays due to its safe, sandy beaches with shallow waters, pier amusements, parks like Paignton Green and Geoplay Park, and nearby attractions like the zoo and waterpark [2, 3, 7, 8, 18, 21]. However, couples can also enjoy the traditional seaside atmosphere, coastal walks, harbour area, and restaurants, making it a pleasant destination for a relaxed break [8, 18, 33].

Can you swim in the sea at Paignton beaches? Is the water clean?

Yes, swimming is popular at Paignton's main sandy beaches like Paignton Sands, Preston Sands, and Goodrington Sands, which generally offer calm, shallow waters suitable for paddling and swimming. Water quality is monitored regularly, and most beaches in Torbay, including Paignton Sands and Preston Sands, achieved 'Excellent' ratings in the 2024 classifications, with Goodrington rated 'Good'. Some smaller coves may have steeper shorelines. Always observe safety signs, especially regarding inflatables near the pier.

Paignton Sands

Preston Sands

Goodrington Sands

Are Paignton beaches sandy or pebbly?

Paignton is famous for its long stretches of red sand. Paignton Sands, Preston Sands, Goodrington Sands, and Broadsands are all primarily sandy beaches, ideal for sandcastles and relaxing. Some smaller, more secluded coves tucked away might have pebbles or shingle, like Elberry Cove (pebble) or Fairy Cove (sand/shingle).

Are there hotels or places to stay right on the beach in Paignton?

Paignton has numerous accommodation options very close to the main beaches. Several hotels, B&Bs, and guest houses line the Esplanade directly facing Paignton Sands and Preston Sands. While not literally 'on' the sand, many offer immediate beach access across the road/promenade and sea views. Options range from traditional seaside hotels to self-catering apartments.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Paignton Sands

Preston Sands

Which Paignton beach is best for families?

Paignton Sands and Goodrington Sands are both excellent and very popular choices for families. Paignton Sands offers the pier, amusements, and proximity to the town centre and Geoplay Park. Goodrington Sands has vast sandy areas, nearby Youngs Park with activities like boating and crazy golf, plus Splashdown Quaywest waterpark. Preston Sands is also a good family option with rock pools at low tide and Preston Green behind it.

Paignton Sands

Goodrington Sands

Preston Sands

Are dogs allowed on Paignton beaches?

There are seasonal restrictions. Dogs are generally NOT allowed on the main beaches (Paignton Sands, Preston Sands, Broadsands, Goodrington South Sands) between 1st May and 30th September. However, dogs ARE allowed year-round on Goodrington North Sands, Fairy Cove, Oyster Cove, Saltern Cove, Elberry Cove, and Churston Cove. Assistance dogs are welcome on all beaches year-round. Always check local signage and clean up after your dog.

Where can I park near Paignton beaches? Is it easy?

Parking is available but can be busy, especially in summer. Major council car parks serve the beaches: Victoria multi-storey is closest to Paignton Sands (though described as 'some distance away' by the council). Goodrington Sands is served by the large Goodrington car park (sometimes referred to as Quay West or Splashdown). Broadsands has its own car park. Preston Sands has Preston Gardens car park nearby. Charges apply in most council car parks. Some limited road parking exists but may have time restrictions (e.g., near Hollicombe). Planning ahead or using public transport is advisable in peak season.

People Also Ask

What facilities are there at Paignton beaches (toilets, cafes etc)?

Paignton Sands is very well-equipped with public toilets (including disabled facilities, open year-round), cafes, restaurants, kiosks, deckchair/pedalo hire, a pier with amusements, and the adjacent Paignton Green with a play park and crazy golf. Goodrington Sands also has good facilities including toilets, cafes/kiosks, beach hut hire, and nearby park amenities. Preston Sands has toilets and a green with a playground. Broadsands has toilets, a cafe/kiosk, and a park area. Smaller coves often have limited or no facilities.

Which Paignton beach is closest to the town centre / train station?

Paignton Sands is the closest beach to Paignton town centre and the train station. It's located directly in front of the main town area and promenade, making it easily accessible on foot after arriving by train or bus, or when staying centrally.

Paignton Sands

Are there quieter, less crowded beaches near Paignton?

Yes, if you want to escape the crowds of the main Paignton beaches, there are several smaller coves nearby. Locals often favour Fairy Cove (behind Paignton Harbour), Oyster Cove, Saltern Cove (a marine conservation area), Elberry Cove (pebbly), and Churston Cove. Hollicombe Beach, between Paignton and Torquay, can also be quieter due to limited facilities and parking. Access to some coves involves steps or steeper paths.

What's the difference between Paignton Sands and Goodrington Sands?

Both are large, popular, sandy, family-friendly beaches in Paignton. Paignton Sands is more central, adjacent to the town centre and features the iconic Paignton Pier with amusements. Goodrington Sands is slightly south, known for its colourful beach huts, adjacent parkland with boating lake, the nearby Splashdown Quaywest waterpark, and views of the steam railway line that runs behind it.

Paignton Sands

Goodrington Sands

Can you walk between the beaches in Paignton?

Yes, you can walk between several beaches. Paignton Sands connects directly to Preston Sands at its northern end along the promenade. You can also walk south from Paignton Sands, around the harbour, to reach Fairy Cove. The South West Coast Path allows for longer walks connecting Paignton to Goodrington Sands, Broadsands, Elberry Cove, and further towards Brixham, or north towards Hollicombe and Torquay. Some sections involve cliff paths or steps.

Are Paignton beaches accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs?

Paignton Sands and Preston Sands offer good accessibility with level promenades, ramps providing access onto the sand near Paignton Pier, and accessible toilets. Paignton is generally considered an accessible resort along the main seafront. Goodrington Sands is also fairly accessible. However, access to Broadsands beach itself involves steps (though the promenade is level), and many smaller coves like Fairy Cove, Churston Cove, and Hollicombe require steps or steep paths.

Why is the sand red in Paignton?

The distinctive red colour of the sand on many beaches around Paignton and Torbay comes from the local geology. It's derived from the erosion of the New Red Sandstone cliffs and rocks prevalent in the area, which are rich in iron oxides, essentially giving the sand a rusty hue.