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Devon’s coastline offers far more than just great beaches. With two very different coasts, towering cliffs, sheltered estuaries and long sandy bays, it’s one of the UK’s best places to enjoy coastal activities both on and off the water. From adrenaline-fuelled adventures to relaxed, nature-based experiences, there’s something here for every type of beach holiday. Here are ten of the best beach and coastal activities in Devon, including how and where to try them, and trusted local providers.
1. Surfing at Croyde Bay
Croyde Bay near Woolacombe is widely regarded as one of the best surfing beaches in Devon, thanks to its consistent Atlantic swells, sandy seabed and breathtaking setting. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to improve your technique, the beach offers reliable conditions that attract surfers year after year. Even if you’re not surfing every day, the atmosphere alone makes this a memorable experience.
How it works
Croyde Bay offers a highly personalised experience with a low 6:1 instructor-to-student ratio. Surfing Croyde Bay provides a range of surf lessons for all abilities, making it easy to find the right session for your experience level.
Provider
Surfing Croyde Bay – surf lessons and board hire
2. Paddleboarding on Bigbury Bay
Stand-up paddleboarding in Bigbury-on-Sea near Bantham offers a gentler way to enjoy Devon’s coastline while still being active. On calm days, the bay’s sheltered waters make it ideal for beginners, families and those who want to explore at a relaxed pace. Gliding across the water with views of Burgh Island feels peaceful and immersive, allowing you to experience the South West coastline from a completely different perspective.
How it works
Lessons begin with a 15-minute beach-based safety and technique session, followed by time on the water to practice and explore. Participants must be aged 11+ and confident swimmers, able to swim 50 metres.
Provider
Discovery Surf School – SUP lessons and kayak hire
3. Coasteering at Hartland Quay
Coasteering is one of the most exhilarating ways to explore Devon’s wild coastline, and Hartland Quay provides the perfect backdrop. This activity combines swimming, scrambling, climbing and jumping into the sea, allowing you to experience hidden corners of the coast that are otherwise inaccessible. Enhance your trip by staying in one of the Devon hot tub cottages listed with us, a great way to relax after a thrilling day exposed to the powerful Atlantic ocean.
How it works
Taking place along the dramatic Hartland coast north of Bude, this activity is tailored to the group’s ability and weather conditions, combining rocky shoreline exploration, jumps into deep pools, and sea paddling.
Provider
Encompass Training – experienced coasteering professionals
4. Kayaking the River Dart & Slapton Ley
Kayaking in South Devon near Dartmouth offers a calmer, more nature-focused coastal experience. The River Dart winds through wooded valleys and quiet creeks, while Slapton Ley provides a rare chance to paddle on a freshwater lagoon just behind the beach. These locations are perfect for spotting wildlife, enjoying peaceful surroundings, and exploring at your own pace without the intensity of open-sea conditions.
How it works
Led by experienced guides, these tours are suitable for all levels and include canoes, paddles and essential safety equipment.
Provider
Rock the Boat – kayak hire and guided tours
5. Wildlife Boat Trips in Torbay
Devon’s warmer south-coast waters attract a wide range of marine life, making Torbay one of the best places in England for wildlife boat trips. Dolphin sightings are common, and you may also spot seals, seabirds and even basking sharks on occasion. These trips combine coastal sightseeing with the excitement of seeing wildlife in its natural habitat, making them especially popular with families and large groups.
How it works
After meeting the team at Torquay Marina for a safety briefing and lifejacket fitting, you’ll depart Torquay Harbour and cruise past the marina’s boats. Set routes ensure a safe, comfortable ride with stops at scenic points along the way.
Provider
Torquay Watersports – wildlife cruises
6. Rock Pooling at Wembury Bay
Rock pooling at Wembury Bay (west of Hope Cove and Thurlestone in South Devon) is one of the best ways to discover Devon’s rich marine life up close. As a designated Marine Conservation Area, the shoreline here is packed with fascinating creatures revealed at low tide, from crabs and starfish to anemones, blennies and sea hares. Whether you’re exploring independently or joining a guided session, Wembury Bay offers a rewarding, educational coastal experience that’s ideal for families, nature lovers and curious beachgoers of all ages.
How it works
Rockpool Safaris typically operate from Easter until late September and are timed to coincide with low tide. If you don’t see dates or times that work for you, it’s usually due to tides not being suitable for safe rockpool exploration.
Provider
Wembury Marine Centre (Devon Wildlife Trust) – guided rock pooling sessions
7. Jurassic Coast Boat Cruises from Exmouth
Taking a boat cruise along the Jurassic Coast from Exmouth (north of Torquay and Brixham) is one of the most memorable ways to experience Devon’s coastline. From the water, you’ll see dramatic red cliffs, secluded coves and striking rock formations that are impossible to appreciate from land. Cruises often include commentary on the area’s geology, history and wildlife, turning a simple boat trip into a fascinating coastal journey. It’s a relaxing but visually impressive activity that appeals to couples, families and anyone wanting a fresh perspective on Devon’s beaches and cliffs.
How it works
Cruises operate year round, including throughout autumn and winter, with routes remaining within sheltered waters to ensure a calm and comfortable experience.
Provider
Stuart Line Cruises — sightseeing tours from Exmouth
8. Walking the South West Coast Path
The South West Coast Path is one of Devon’s greatest assets, offering unforgettable coastal scenery, wildlife, and constantly changing views. Whether you choose a gentle clifftop stroll or a more challenging headland hike, walking the coast path allows you to explore beaches, coves and viewpoints that you’d never see by car. This activity is ideal if you’re staying in dog friendly cottages in Devon as the path allows dogs year round.
Popular routes
Routes near Appledore, Sidmouth, Salcombe, Exmouth, Westward Ho!
Provider
South West Coast Path Association – maps and route guides
9. Fossil Hunting on the Jurassic Coast (East Devon)
Fossil hunting along Devon’s Jurassic Coast (near the border of Dorset) is one of the most fascinating coastal activities you can enjoy, combining fresh sea air with a hands-on connection to millions of years of history. East Devon’s beaches regularly reveal ancient fossils after storms and high tides, making every visit feel like a real-life treasure hunt. It’s an engaging, educational activity that appeals to families, couples and curious walkers alike, and it adds a completely different dimension to a UK beach holiday.
How it works
Offering private fossil walks at Charmouth, guided coastal walks, corporate and charity walks, VIP tours and shore excursions from Portland Port, covering the Jurassic Coast and surrounding areas.
Provider
Jurassic Coast Guides – guided fossil walks
10. Boat Fishing, Ilfracombe
If you love the idea of getting out onto the water and trying something exciting during your Devon coastal break, boat fishing in Ilfracombe is a brilliant choice for all ages and abilities. From family-friendly mackerel sessions near shore to longer reef or deep sea trips out in the Bristol Channel, the experience combines the beauty of North Devon’s dramatic coastline with the chance to catch your own fish.
How it works
Wild Frontier Charters operates from Ilfracombe Harbour, taking guests aboard their modern charter boat “Wild Frontier 2,” which is fully equipped for fishing, navigation and comfort. Trips run throughout the year and vary in length.
Provider
Wild Frontier Charters – chartered fishing trips
Book a Seaside Cottage and Enjoy Coastal Activities In Devon
Feeling inspired to experience some of Devon’s best beach and coastal activities for yourself? From surfing and paddleboarding to scenic coastal walks and wildlife encounters, Devon’s coastline offers something for every kind of holiday. Explore our extensive collection of coastal holiday cottages in Devon, choose your perfect base by the sea, and make the most of everything this spectacular region has to offer. Whether you’re planning an active escape or a relaxed seaside break, the coast is calling.