If you’re planning a trip to South Devon, one of the must-visit spots is Bantham Beach. Renowned for its stunning beauty and vibrant atmosphere, this beach promises a remarkable day out for families, surfers, and nature enthusiasts alike.
Bantham Beach is approximately 45 miles southwest of The Langstone Cliff Hotel. The journey, which usually takes around 1 hour 15 minutes by car, is a picturesque drive through the Devon countryside, making it an enjoyable experience right from the start. Head out from Dawlish Warren toward the A38 southbound, bypassing the busiest coastal bottlenecks, before turning off to wind through the rolling hills of the South Hams toward Kingsbridge and the stunning Avon estuary.
This drive not only offers beautiful vistas but also sets the mood for a day of coastal adventures.
Bantham Beach offers a range of activities to keep every member of the family entertained. Here’s a list of what you can enjoy:
Surfing and Watersports: As a hotspot for surfers, Bantham provides consistent surf conditions. Boards and wetsuits can be hired locally, with lessons available for beginners by several surf schools in the area.
Family Fun: Families can enjoy building sandcastles, beach games, or simply relaxing under the sun. The beach’s gently shelving sands and rock pools make it perfect for children’s exploration activities.
Nature Walks: For those looking to stretch their legs, the South West Coast Path passes close by, offering spectacular views and a chance to explore the local flora and fauna.
Picnicking and Cafés: You can either pack your own lunch or enjoy delicious treats from the beach café, which offers a range of snacks, ice creams, and hot drinks.
Wildlife Spotting: The beach and its estuary are home to a range of wildlife. Birdwatchers can often spot species such as curlews and herons, and if you’re lucky, you may even spot seals playing in the surf.
Besides its natural beauty and plethora of activities, Bantham Beach offers a unique charm that captivates all its visitors. Its relatively unspoiled nature ensures a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle. The surrounding scenery, complete with rolling sand dunes and panoramic views of Burgh Island, creates a breathtaking backdrop that makes Bantham stand out from other beaches in the region.
Being awarded Blue Flag status, the beach’s cleanliness and safety are second to none, contributing to its reputation as one of the top beaches in the UK. Don’t forget to capture the delightful sunset to remember your day at this beautiful location.
While Bantham Beach itself could easily fill a day’s itinerary, here are a few other spots nearby that are worth exploring:
Burgh Island: Only a stone’s throw from Bantham, Burgh Island is accessible on foot during low tide or by sea tractor at high tide. It houses the iconic Art Deco Burgh Island Hotel and the historic Pilchard Inn.
Kingsbridge: A charming market town just over six miles away, Kingsbridge offers quaint shops, cafés, and stunning estuary views. It’s an excellent place for a leisurely stroll or to stock up on local produce.
Salcombe: Known for its sailing, beautiful beaches, and boutique shops, Salcombe is a short drive away and offers a classic taste of Devonshire life.
Dartmoor National Park: Although a bit farther afield, the dramatic landscapes of Dartmoor provide walking trails, historical sites, and rugged natural beauty.
Thurlestone: Just a short distance away, this picturesque village boasts beautiful coastal walks, a golf course, and another superb beach.
If South Devon is on your travel itinerary, then a visit to Bantham Beach is a must. Between its stunning natural scenery, thriving local wildlife, and wealth of activities, it’s easy to see why it remains a favourite among visitors of all ages.
Click below to see our other guides to wonderful Devon attractions
Places To Visit In South Devon
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