Nearby Beaches
Explore South Devon’s Stunning Coastline Just Minutes from Newton Abbot
One of the biggest advantages of visiting or living in Newton Abbot is its proximity to some of South Devon’s finest beaches. Whether you’re looking for a traditional seaside escape, a peaceful cove, or a family-friendly adventure, there’s a beach within easy reach.
From the sandy stretches of Teignmouth and Dawlish Warren to the picturesque coves of Shaldon and Meadfoot, you’ll find the perfect spot to relax, swim, or explore.
Sun, sea and fresh air!
Teignmouth Beaches
Distance: 6 miles (approximately 15 minutes by car or a short train ride)
Teignmouth offers the best of classic seaside charm and natural beauty. With both a long sandy beach and a quieter estuary-side retreat, there’s something for everyone.
Beaches to Visit:
· Teignmouth Town Beach – A family-friendly sandy stretch ideal for swimming, paddling, and watersports.
· River (Back) Beach – A scenic spot by the estuary, perfect for watching fishing boats and spotting local wildlife.
Why Visit?
· Traditional pier, arcades, and a lovely promenade.
· Plenty of seafront cafés and restaurants.
· Lifeguard cover during peak summer months.
Teignmouth is a great choice for those looking for a classic seaside day out with all the amenities.
Teignmouth Beaches
Distance: 6 miles (approximately 15 minutes by car or a short train ride)
Teignmouth offers the best of classic seaside charm and natural beauty. With both a long sandy beach and a quieter estuary-side retreat, there’s something for everyone.
Beaches to Visit:
· Teignmouth Town Beach – A family-friendly sandy stretch ideal for swimming, paddling, and watersports.
· River (Back) Beach – A scenic spot by the estuary, perfect for watching fishing boats and spotting local wildlife.
Why Visit?
· Traditional pier, arcades, and a lovely promenade.
· Plenty of seafront cafés and restaurants.
· Lifeguard cover during peak summer months.
Teignmouth is a great choice for those looking for a classic seaside day out with all the amenities.
Shaldon Beach & Ness Beach
Distance: 6–7 miles (approximately 15 minutes by car, across the estuary from Teignmouth)
Shaldon is a quaint coastal village with a relaxed atmosphere, while nearby Ness Beach offers a more secluded escape.
Beaches to Visit:
· Shaldon Beach – A small sandy-pebble beach with stunning views across the Teign Estuary.
· Ness Beach – Accessible through the famous “Smugglers’ Tunnel”, this cove is surrounded by dramatic red cliffs.
Why Visit?
· Shaldon’s charming pubs, tearooms, and a small zoo (Shaldon Wildlife Trust).
· Ness Beach’s unique tunnel entrance adds a sense of adventure.
· Great for swimming, kayaking, and scenic walks.
For those looking for a quieter beach experience with a touch of history and charm, Shaldon is a fantastic option.
Sun, Sea and Fresh Air!
Dawlish Town Beach & Dawlish Warren
Distance: 7–10 miles (approximately 15–20 minutes by car or direct train from Newton Abbot)
Dawlish and Dawlish Warren offer contrasting beach experiences, from a lively seaside town to a stunning natural reserve.
Beaches to Visit:
· Dawlish Town Beach – A sandy beach backed by red cliffs, just a short walk from Dawlish town centre.
· Dawlish Warren – A golden sandy beach known for its sand dunes and protected nature reserve.
Why Visit?
· Dawlish is famous for its black swans, often seen in The Lawn park.
· Dawlish Warren has lifeguards, amusements, and nature trails.
· Great walking opportunities along the South West Coast Path.
Dawlish is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of traditional seaside fun and beautiful natural surroundings.
Dawlish Town Beach & Dawlish Warren
Distance: 7–10 miles (approximately 15–20 minutes by car or direct train from Newton Abbot)
Dawlish and Dawlish Warren offer contrasting beach experiences, from a lively seaside town to a stunning natural reserve.
Beaches to Visit:
· Dawlish Town Beach – A sandy beach backed by red cliffs, just a short walk from Dawlish town centre.
· Dawlish Warren – A golden sandy beach known for its sand dunes and protected nature reserve.
Why Visit?
· Dawlish is famous for its black swans, often seen in The Lawn park.
· Dawlish Warren has lifeguards, amusements, and nature trails.
· Great walking opportunities along the South West Coast Path.
Dawlish is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of traditional seaside fun and beautiful natural surroundings.
Paignton Beach & Goodrington Sands
Distance: 8–10 miles (approximately 20 minutes by car)
Paignton is a bustling seaside resort, while Goodrington Sands offers a quieter, family-friendly atmosphere.
Beaches to Visit:
· Paignton Beach – A large sandy beach with a traditional pier, amusements, and plenty of seaside shops.
· Goodrington Sands – A scenic beach with a waterpark, boating lake, and rockpools.
Why Visit?
· Classic seaside activities, including donkey rides, arcade games, and candyfloss.
· Goodrington Sands is excellent for watersports and rockpooling.
· Easy access to local attractions like Paignton Zoo.
Paignton is a great option for families looking for a lively beach day with plenty of entertainment.
Torquay Beaches (Torre Abbey Sands, Meadfoot, Babbacombe)
Distance: 9–12 miles (approximately 20–25 minutes by car)
Torquay is part of the English Riviera, offering a variety of beach experiences, from bustling seafronts to peaceful hideaways.
Beaches to Visit:
· Torre Abbey Sands – A central sandy beach near the marina and town centre.
· Meadfoot Beach – A quieter, rockier beach with stunning coastal views.
· Babbacombe Beach – A pebble beach at the foot of cliffs, accessible via the Babbacombe Cliff Railway or a walking path.
Why Visit?
· Torre Abbey Sands provides a vibrant, classic Riviera experience with palm trees and a bustling promenade.
· Meadfoot Beach is great for those seeking a peaceful retreat with dramatic scenery.
· Babbacombe’s cliff-top views are spectacular, with a charming village atmosphere nearby.
Torquay’s beaches cater to a wide range of visitors, from sunseekers to those looking for scenic walks.
Torquay Beaches (Torre Abbey Sands, Meadfoot, Babbacombe)
Distance: 9–12 miles (approximately 20–25 minutes by car)
Torquay is part of the English Riviera, offering a variety of beach experiences, from bustling seafronts to peaceful hideaways.
Beaches to Visit:
· Torre Abbey Sands – A central sandy beach near the marina and town centre.
· Meadfoot Beach – A quieter, rockier beach with stunning coastal views.
· Babbacombe Beach – A pebble beach at the foot of cliffs, accessible via the Babbacombe Cliff Railway or a walking path.
Why Visit?
· Torre Abbey Sands provides a vibrant, classic Riviera experience with palm trees and a bustling promenade.
· Meadfoot Beach is great for those seeking a peaceful retreat with dramatic scenery.
· Babbacombe’s cliff-top views are spectacular, with a charming village atmosphere nearby.
Torquay’s beaches cater to a wide range of visitors, from sunseekers to those looking for scenic walks.
Practical Tips for Visiting Local Beaches
Getting There
· By train – Teignmouth, Dawlish, and Paignton are easily accessible by rail from Newton Abbot.
· By car – Parking near popular beaches (Paignton, Teignmouth) can fill quickly during peak times. Arriving early or using public transport is recommended.
Facilities & Accessibility
· Major beaches (Teignmouth, Dawlish Warren, Paignton) have public toilets, cafés, and seafront amenities.
· Smaller, more secluded beaches (Holcombe, Meadfoot) have limited facilities, so plan accordingly.
Dog-Friendly Beaches
· Many local beaches have seasonal dog restrictions (often between Easter and 1st October). Check local signage or council websites for details.
Safety & Weather Advice
· Always check local weather forecasts and follow safety flags or lifeguard advice.
· Tidal conditions vary – be mindful of tide times, especially when exploring rockpools or hidden coves.
Find Your Perfect Beach Near Newton Abbot
With so many incredible beaches just a short drive or train ride away, Newton Abbot is a fantastic base for exploring the South Devon coastline. Whether you prefer bustling seaside resorts, quiet coves, or nature-rich stretches of sand, there’s something for everyone.
Which beach will you visit first?
