Planning your next road trip to the coast? Then look no further. Here are five of the best beaches to explore on your next visit to the south west. Don’t forget your bucket and spade.
For a bit of history… Durdle Door, Dorset
Located on the Jurassic Coast near Lulworth in Dorset, it’s thought that the stone arch formed around 10,000 years ago when the sea gradually wore through the limestone, creating one the UK’s most striking views. The shingle beach is accessible by steps and is the perfect location for a relaxing day with family or friends.
For your sat nav: BH20 5PU
For island hoppers… St Martin’s, Isles of Scilly
The island’s crystal clear waters and tropical flora are enough to make you feel like you’re in Hawaii. The beaches of St Martin’s have an abundance of secret coves and coastal walks to discover. To access the island you’ll need to drive to St Mary’s, where you’ll be able to catch a ferry to St Martin’s. Cameras at the ready.
For your sat nav: TR25 0QL
For sports-lovers… Woolacombe, North Devon
There’s a reason Woolacombe beach scooped TripAdvisor’s best beach two years in a row. People travel from around the country to ride the waves that travel in from the Atlantic, while those up for something slower-paced can try their hand at bodyboarding or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) in the shallows.
For your sat nav: EX34 7DL
For coastal walkers… Kynance Cove, Cornwall
With the turquoise waters and postcard-worthy white sands, there’s no wonder Kynance Cove is tipped as one of Cornwall’s most beautiful beaches. If you fancy stretching your legs, there are several walking routes around the area. The Kynance to Lizard Point walk, which is around 2.5 miles long, is very popular. Ensure you check the tide before visiting, as the beach can disappear during high tide.
For your sat nav: TR12 7PJ
For families… Westward Ho!, North Devon
Westward Ho! (yes, it has an exclamation mark in its name) gets its unique name from a 19th-century novel. The beautiful sandy beach stretches three miles and is surrounded by a pebble ridge. Keen surfers will want to make the most of the waves at Westward Ho! – while those more at home out of the water will get some amazing photo ops on some of the coastal walks from the beach and across Bideford Bay. Look out for kite surfers, too.
For your sat nav: EX39 1LL
Need some more road trip inspiration while you’re in that part of the world? Check out our West Cornwall break ideas here.
