Public Beaches Near Plymouth
Even though Plymouth is on the coast and is known as Britain's Ocean City, there aren't any beaches in Plymouth. However, in a quick car ride, you can find yourself at some of the most beautiful beaches in the South Devon area. Here are all the beaches near Plymouth.
Future Inn Plymouth is the perfect base for discovering some of Devon and Cornwall's most beautiful beaches. You'll find spectacular coastal scenery and seaside adventures just a short drive away. After a day by the sea, return to a spacious room with a large bed, free WiFi, and complimentary tea and coffee. Free parking is included, making it easy to explore the coastline at your own pace, while Fishbone Restaurant serves hearty breakfasts and seasonal dishes to keep you fuelled for your next adventure. Book direct for the best rates guaranteed. Plus, Future Club Rewards members get up to 12% off - join free today!
Book a RoomBest beaches near Plymouth
Whether you want to do a spot of sunbathing, check out the rock pools, do a bit of surfing, or just a walk along the shore, there are plenty of nice beaches near Plymouth. Make the most of the beautiful outdoors and plan your day trips to one of the beaches around Plymouth.
Jennycliff
Romantic, windswept and secluded, Jennycliff is a fantastic picnic spot with a gorgeous grass area overlooking the beach. It is a pebble beach that is a popular spot for locals to come and admire the views, which are awesome from the top of the cliffs. It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a designated County Wildlife Site.
Address: Jennycliff Beach, Staddon Lane, Plymouth, PL9 9SP
Parking: The car park is free.
Directions: From Future Inn Plymouth, it takes about 25 minutes to drive. Alternatively, it would take 45 minutes to cycle. Did you know, Future Inns is a cycle-friendly hotel?
Wembury Beach
Wembury Beach is an area of outstanding natural beauty, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and diverse wildlife. The beach is well known as one of the best beaches in the UK for exploring rock pools. You'll find limpets, crabs, fish, sea scorpions and starfish. The clifftop climbs are ideal for walkers, as they are part of the South West Coast Path. If you want to swim, it is best to visit during low tide.
Address: Wembury Beach, Plymouth, PL9 0AU
Parking: The car park is free for National Trust members, or £3 off-peak and £6 in peak season for the day. If you are a member or just interested, we've listed all of the National Trust Properties in Plymouth.
Directions: From Future Inn Plymouth, the drive takes about 30 minutes. There is also a direct bus, the 1A, which goes from Bravo Way across the road from the hotel. The journey takes an hour.
Bovisand Beach Plymouth
Bovisand is one of the best beaches in Devon for families. When the tide is out, there is a large expanse of flat sand, ideal for ball games and building sandcastles. Whereas the water is perfect for swimming and snorkelling. On a good day, you can see across to Plymouth Sound. Just bear in mind that the only way to get on and off the beach is via steps and a path that some might find steep.
Address: Bovisand Beach, Bovisand Lane, Plymouth, PL9 0AD
Parking: There are two car parks, both pay-and-display and use ANPR cameras, costing up to £6 for the day. You can use cash, a card or the RingGo App.
Directions: From Future Inn Plymouth, it takes about 30 minutes.
Mothecombe Beach
Mothecombe Beach is one of the private beaches near Plymouth. Owned by the Flete Estate, the beach is revered by locals for its beauty and charm. It is an unspoilt, sandy beach ideal for sunbathing, swimming, picnics and rock pooling. It sits near Ivybridge and the River Erme. One of the quiet beaches near Plymouth, so it is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds, especially during the summer months.
Address: Mothecombe Beach, Flete Estate, Holbeton, PL8 1LB.
Parking: The car park costs £5 per day or £2.50 after 3pm. It is cash only, and there are no cash points nearby. Keep in mind, the gates typically close around 7pm.
Directions: From Future Inn Plymouth, the drive takes about 35 minutes.
Bigbury on Sea
The exciting feature of Bigbury-on-Sea is that it is connected by a causeway to the iconic Burgh Island. However, you can hitch a ride on the sea tractor if the tide is in. It is famed for its links to Agatha Christie, and the art-deco hotel was once a haunt for pirates and smugglers. In addition, the sandy beach is dotted with rock pools, and those into water sports will love the waves. If you want to try bodyboarding, surfing, windsurfing or kite-surfing, there are hire facilities on the beach.
Address: Marine Drive, Bigbury-on-Sea, Kingsbridge, Devon, TQ7 4AZ
Parking: Parking is charged between 8am and 6pm and is a maximum of £12.
Directions: From Future Inn Plymouth, it takes about 50 minutes.
Bantham Beach
One of the sandy beaches near Plymouth is Bantham Beach. It has won awards from the Marine Conservation Society and has converted to Blue Flag status. The sea is shallow and safe for paddling, making it one of the child-friendly beaches near Plymouth. Surfers also love it here as it caters to all levels. The mellow waves are fantastic for beginners. Meanwhile, where the River Avon meets the sea, more confident surfers can test the unique rips.
As an added bonus, foodies from across Devon and Cornwall flock to Gastrobus. Bringing street food and drink to the beach. You can dig into handmade burgers, gourmet hot dogs, salad boxes and ice cream. Expect a queue, but trust us, the wait will be worth it.
Address: Bantham, Kingsbridge, Devon, TQ7 3AN
Parking: The car park has room for over 1,000 cars and is an easy walk over the sand dunes. It is up to £12 to park all day, or £6 if you arrive from 4pm.
Address: From Future Inn Plymouth, it takes about 50 minutes.
Whitsand Bay
Considered one of Cornwall's hidden gems, there are four miles of beaches at Whitsand Bay. The flat sand is excellent for walking or jogging, whereas the constant swell keeps surfers happy. Please note that the beach is reached by steep paths and steps that wind down between the rocks and vegetation. Meaning they are never crowded.
Address: Tregantle Beach, Antony, Torpoint, PL11 3AZ
Parking: The easiest car park is near Tregantle Fort, with around 180 spaces, but there are also car parks at Sharrow Point and Tregonahake. Prices start from £1 for an hour. Even though card payments are accepted, it's recommended to bring cash due to the signal in the location.
Directions: From Future Inn Plymouth, it takes about 35 minutes. Consider using the Torpoint Ferry, which is free crossing from Plymouth to Cornwall, as it may be quicker.
Portwinkle Beach
Portwinkle links up with Finnygook Beach. This sand and shale beach is popular with local surfers and rock poolers. Popular with families and used by experienced surfers when the conditions are suitable. The tiny village of Portwinkle was once the scene of a thriving pilchard industry. The old fish cellars are now holiday cottages, and the quaint harbour is now calm. There are short, steep paths down to both beaches.
Address: Finnygook Beach, Portwinkle, Torpoint, PL11 3BP
Parking: There is parking available along the seafront. Plus, a long-stay car park with seasonal tariffs. The car park only accepts coins. April to October starts from £1 for an hour, up to a maximum of £7.50 for the day. Between November and March, it is 10p for an hour or 50p all day.
Directions: From Future Inn Plymouth, the drive takes about 35 minutes.
East Looe Beach
The sandy beach in East Looe sits directly in front of the old town. Watch fishing boats pass throughout the day, and those ferrying passengers to the nearby village of Polperro. The location is great for swimming, especially for little ones. Build sandcastles or walk along the promenade. A second beach can also be accessed, which is rocky. Ideal for getting away from the crowds.
Address: The Millpool, West Looe, Cornwall, PL13 2AF
Parking: The village is pedestrianised, so the walk from Millpool Car Park takes 10-15 minutes. You may not want to burden yourself with too much to carry. Parking is up to a maximum of £7 in the winter months, and £11.50 in the summer months for 24 hours.
Directions: From Future Inn Plymouth, the drive takes about 40 minutes.
Cawsand Beach
Cawsand and Kingsand are twin seafront villages which overlook Plymouth Sound. Both are east-facing sand and shingle beaches, which are sheltered and reveal good rock pools at low tide. It has fantastic views of the ships coming and going. Boats can be hired, and there is a slipway from the beach. The 17th-century fishing villages are renowned for their smuggling activities. The streets are narrow and twisting with pretty pastel-coloured houses.
Address: Cawsand Car Park, 3 New Road, Cawsand, Torpoint PL10 1PA or Kingsand Car Park, Fore Street, Kingsand, Torpoint, PL10 1NA.
Parking: There are two pay-and-display car parks, one in Cawsand and the other in Kingsand. Parking is charged between 9am-4pm and is a maximum of £4.20. The narrow, winding streets of the villages can be challenging to navigate; visitors are strongly advised to leave their cars in the main car parks.
Directions: From Future Inn Plymouth, the drive takes about 50 minutes.
Why drive when you can arrive by sea? The seasonal Cawsand Ferry sails from The Barbican in Plymouth to Cawsand Beach in around 30 minutes. It's been running for more than 100 years! Adult fares are £6.50 each way, and the crossing offers beautiful views across Plymouth Sound before you step ashore on the beach.
Readymoney Cove
In the harbour village of Fowey (pronounced Foy) is Readymoney Cove. The sandy beach is sheltered by cliffs and St Catherine's Castle. The castle was built by King Henry VIII as a defence against invasion and is now an English Heritage property. Locals can be seen wild swimming - whatever the weather. The South West Coast Path can also be accessed, which provides stunning viewpoints and excellent walking opportunities.
Address: Readymoney Car Park, Readymoney Road, Fowey, Cornwall, PL23 1EB
Parking: Parking is payable between 9am-4pm in the winter and 6pm in the summer. Seasonal charges apply, starting from £1. You can use cash, a card or the JustPark App.
Directions: From Future Inn Plymouth, the drive takes about 60 minutes.
Outdoor Swimming Pools in Plymouth
If you're looking to cool off on a sunny day, Plymouth has plenty of options beyond the beach. Discover historic lidos, family-friendly outdoor pools and scenic wild swimming spots, including the iconic Tinside Lido and Firestone Bay.
Whether you're after a leisurely dip or an adventurous sea swim, our guide to outdoor swimming in Plymouth has everything you need to plan your next splash.
Read more
Get Out On The Water
Take advantage of Plymouth's stunning waterfront and experience the city from a different perspective. Whether it's a scenic boat trip, kayaking across Plymouth Sound, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing or even scuba diving, there's an adventure for every age and ability.
Read our guide to getting out on the water in Plymouth and discover the best ways to make a splash during your stay.
Read More
Outdoor Activities in Plymouthf
Looking for adventure during your stay? From scenic coastal walks and cycling trails to paddleboarding, kayaking, high ropes and zip lines, Plymouth is packed with exciting outdoor experiences.
Whether you're travelling with family, friends or as a couple, discover the best outdoor activities in Plymouth and start planning your next adventure.
Read More
Free Things To Do In Plymouth
Looking for ways to enjoy Plymouth without stretching your budget? From exploring the historic Barbican and strolling along Plymouth Hoe to discovering free museums, parks and scenic coastal walks, there's plenty to see and do without spending a penny.
Read our guide to the best free things to do in Plymouth and make the most of your stay for less.
Read More
Plymouth Walking Trails
Whether you fancy a gentle waterfront stroll or a challenging coastal hike, Plymouth has a walk for every ability. Discover scenic routes through ancient woodlands, along the South West Coast Path, across Dartmoor and around the city's historic landmarks.
Read our guide to the best walking trails in Plymouth and find your next adventure on foot.
Read More
Family Friendly Hotel in Plymouth
Future Inn Plymouth is a modern and comfortable hotel conveniently located near main access roads and public transportation.
It is close to the popular family-friendly attractions. The hotel's spacious and airy bedrooms, accommodating up to four guests, are perfect for families.
Each room has free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and a desk and workspace, providing entertainment and comfort for everyone. Added touches like a complimentary robe, and home-away-from-home services - such as a guest laundry room, ice buckets, tea and coffee-making facilities, and filtered water to enhance the convenience of your stay. Families will particularly appreciate the free parking.
Guest Laundry Room
Heading to the beach?
After a day spent swimming, paddleboarding or relaxing on the beach, make use of Future Inn Plymouth's convenient guest laundry room.
It's perfect for freshening up sandy towels, swimwear and beach clothes, so everything is clean, dry and ready for your next coastal adventure.
Future Club Rewards
For additional benefits, you can join the Future Inns hotel loyalty program.
Alongside a member's discount rate, for every £1 you spend on accommodation, you earn 1 reward point.
You also get a complimentary drink voucher to redeem in the bar when you dine. Plus, you get double points when you eat in the restaurant.
Points collected can then be used to upgrade your bedroom to a suite or a free night's stay. It's also completely free to join!
Plymouth Restaurant
Fishbone Restaurant is a welcoming and contemporary dining venue. Known for serving locally sourced produce, the menu showcases a delightful range of British and seafood dishes,
ensuring that diners can enjoy an authentic taste of the region. From hearty breakfasts to leisurely lunches and indulgent dinners, it is ideal for both hotel guests and locals alike.
Additionally, the restaurant features an inviting bar area, perfect for enjoying a drink. In the summer months, take advantage of the outdoor terrace.
A large selection of drinks is also available, including popular local brands such as Atlantic IPA, Offshore, Tarquins Gin, and Plymouth Gin.
Naturally, there's a good choice of soft drinks, including refreshing fruit juices, tea, coffee, and mocktails.
Food & Drink Special Offers
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Plymouth have a beach?
Although Plymouth is a vibrant waterfront city, it doesn't have a traditional sandy beach within the city centre. Instead, visitors can enjoy the historic Hoe, waterfront walks and harbour before heading to some of Devon and Cornwall's best beaches, many of which are within a 20 to 60-minute drive. Jennycliff, just outside the city centre, is the closest beach to Plymouth.
What are some of the places near Plymouth that are worth seeing on a visit to Cornwall?
Cornwall is packed with beautiful coastal destinations just across the River Tamar. Popular places to visit from Plymouth include Cawsand and Kingsand, Whitsand Bay, Portwrinkle, Looe, Polperro and Fowey. You can drive via the Torpoint Ferry or enjoy a scenic passenger ferry from Plymouth's Barbican to Cawsand during the summer months.
What are some popular beaches near Plymouth?
Some of the most popular beaches near Plymouth include Wembury Beach, Bovisand Beach, Bigbury-on-Sea, Bantham Beach, Whitsand Bay, Cawsand Beach, East Looe Beach and Readymoney Cove. Whether you're looking for sandy beaches, excellent rock pooling, scenic coastal walks or great surfing conditions, there's a beach to suit every type of visitor within an hour's drive of Plymouth.
Is there any entrance fee to access these beaches?
No, access to the beaches themselves is free. However, most beaches charge for parking, with prices varying by location and season. Some car parks are free for National Trust members, while others accept cash, card or mobile payment apps. Arriving early during the summer months is recommended, as the most popular beaches can fill up quickly.
Are there facilities like cafés or restrooms at these beaches?
Most of the larger beaches have facilities including cafés, toilets and seasonal refreshments. Bigbury-on-Sea, Bantham Beach, East Looe Beach, and Cawsand all have places to eat nearby, while beaches such as Wembury and Bovisand also offer toilets and parking. Smaller or more secluded beaches, including Mothecombe, have fewer facilities, so it's worth checking before you travel.
Are these beaches suitable for families?
Yes, many beaches near Plymouth are ideal for families. Bovisand Beach, Bantham Beach, East Looe Beach and Bigbury-on-Sea all have gently sloping sands that are perfect for paddling, sandcastle building and picnics. Wembury Beach is also a favourite with children thanks to its famous rock pools, while nearby cafés, toilets and parking make many of these beaches easy for a family day out.
Where is the best beach in the UK for a family?
Several beaches near Plymouth are regularly recommended for family days out. Bantham Beach is renowned for its soft sand and shallow water, Bovisand Beach is ideal for paddling and snorkelling, while Bigbury-on-Sea offers plenty of space, rock pools and the unique experience of crossing to Burgh Island. Wembury Beach is another excellent choice for children who love discovering marine life in its famous rock pools.
Beach images are the copyright of our friends at Visit Plymouth.
