Blackpool Sands

Traditionalists will be delighted to stumble across River Beach on the estuary side of Teignmouth, where time seems to have stood still as fishermen mend their nets in the age-old fashion, sand eels are caught, boats bob up and down in the harbour, waterside inns thrive, visitors hire boats and beach huts, and children splash around in the water.

Bantham, a fine sandy beach at the mouth of the Avon estuary, is among the most popular on the south coast for surfing. Also a hit with surfers and body boarders for its swells and shore breaks is Challaborough, a sheltered cove in an AONB just along from Bigbury on Sea which has also been awarded a Blue Flag.

The National Trust owns the beach at Wembury, together with its Marine Centre, which runs guided rock pool rambles and other events during the summer, and the historic water mill, now home to a cafe serving delicious home-made food. Also owned by the National Trust are Thurlestone and South Milton Sands. Thurlestone Rock, a natural red sandstone arch created by erosion caused by wave action, was famously captured on canvas by William Turner, the celebrated 19th century landscape painter.

Disabled holidaymakers will also find a good selection of beaches to suit them in South Devon, with many offering wheelchair access. These include Dawlish Warren, Teignmouth Town Beach and Bigbury on Sea, all of which also have toilets for the disabled and beach wheelchairs available for hire.

There are also a wealth of fantastic beaches in South Devon that are dog friendly all year round while others welcome dogs for parts of the year. Amongst those without restrictions are East Portlemouth, Mill Bay, Ness Cove, Salcombe North Sands, Slapton, Strete Gate, Teignmouth River Bridge, Torcross and Thurlestone.

For further information about beaches in the region, together with details about the wealth of other things to see and do, plus places to stay, contact the South Devon holiday line on Tel: 01626 215674 or visit www.visitsouthdevon.co.uk.