An extremely picturesque and popular beach, Slapton Sands plays an important part in the survival of some of the UK’s rarest flora and fauna and is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
With plenty of water sports such as surfing, windsurfing and canoeing to try out, the beach is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months and there is a flag system in place indicating safe swimming spots.
There’s a beach side café, toilet facilities and Slapton Sands is a dog-friendly beach throughout the year.
The sweeping shore of Slapton is spectacular, with great views out to the expansive horizon. It’s less stony up at Strete Gate, at the Dartmouth end but there are more facilities at the Torcross end.
The sea here can be very rough, and storms are legendary, so be careful but enjoy the bracing atmosphere. And of course Slapton Ley behind the beach has a wealth of wildlife to discover.
The road between the beach and ley is great to drive or cycle along. And don’t forget the biggest and best portions of fish and chips from the Start Bay Inn, complete with hunks of bread and bowls of mushy peas.