No trip to Devon is complete without a family day out at the seaside. But with so many beaches to choose from you might not know where to start. In this blog we’re going to delve into the very best East Devon beaches with a full run down on everything you need to know about them to plan your visit.
As a parent myself, I know it’s important to be able to plan weather to bring a bucket and spade or a net for rock pooling, if there’s extra things to do nearby and where to pop for refreshments. You’ll find these all mentioned below.
Love Devon? Why not follow me on Instagram, join the Devon with Kids Facebook group and subscribe to my newsletter!
Contents - jump to what you'd like to know
Things to know about beaches in East Devon
Before you head off for your beach day, here’s a few important things to know and tips for making the most of your day:
- The East Devon coastline is prone to landslips. Check the local news for updates about the coast path and unstable cliffs
- Check the latest water quality reports from Surfers Against Sewage.
- Many car parks in East Devon use the Ringo Parking app for cashless payment. Download the app while you have wifi.
Exmouth Beach

With Devon’s longest promenade, we couldn’t miss Exmouth off our list of family-friendly beaches in East Devon.
Holidaymakers flock to Exmouth’s shore year after year, bringing along their families to enjoy all that this great town has to offer.
You can fill a whole day without even leaving its sandy seafront. How? Hang out and play at the brilliant adventure playground at Queens Drive Place. Pop into Ocean Exmouth for bowling and soft play. Or just bring along your buckets to hunt and collect shells alongside the Jurassic Coast’s red cliffs.
Plus, this is one of the beaches in East Devon that has dog-friendly sections all year round. So bring the pooch for a good run along the golden sanded front and to join the kids in jumping the waves. Dogs are allowed East from the second break water and West from the Octagon Café.
Then, when everyone has worked up an appetite, head to Bumble and Bee’s cliff side cafe for a sweet treat and a cuppa.
Sandy Bay

If you’re after a lush sandy beach in East Devon, Sandy Bay is just what you’re looking for.
Sat between the towering cliffs above, this golden beach is popular with both locals and tourists. You can access the beach on foot, simply park either at the Devon Cliffs Holiday Park or, alternatively, park at Exmouth and stroll the 30 to 40 minute walk along the coastal path East to Sandy Bay.
Once you get to your destination, you can make use of the children’s play area and the cafe for those hungry appetites.
If your dog likes to join you on your family beach trips, they’ll be welcome at Sandy Bay outside of the summer months. From 1 April to 31 October, you’ll need to leave the pooches at home.
Branscombe Beach

A short drive from Seaton, Branscombe Beach is a hidden gem among East Devon beaches.
This scenic pebble shore offers families plenty of amenities alongside some stunning seascapes – with a truly deserved title of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The kids can paddle or skim stones in the shallows.
Then, after a ton of beach fun, take a short stroll to Branscombe village. Here you’ll find a working forge and the National Trust café that awaits.
With year-round dog-friendly areas, on-site parking, and a beachfront café, Branscombe Beach provides a hassle-free and fun day out for the whole family.
Beer Beach

Follow the clifftop walk from Branscombe Beach and you’ll stumble across Beer – the next stop on our list of family-friendly beaches in East Devon.
Beer is a little explorers’ haven. Across the shingle lined beach, see if you can discover the secret nooks along the limestone cliffs.
Dogs are welcome too! Year round, your furry friends can visit along the Eastern side of Beer beach, but if visiting between 1 May and 30 September, they can’t join you on the Western side.
If you’re after a bite to eat, and who isn’t with hungry kiddos, on warm summer days make a stop at the restored Orion Pullman Carriage for a proper Devon cream tea. Or, year round, a visit to The Sea Shanty Beach Cafe will always welcome you with a tray of fresh chips.
Sidmouth Beach

Among the many stunning beaches in East Devon is Sidmouth Town Beach – a firm family favourite. This beautiful expanse of sand and shingle has all of the traditional seaside charm you’re looking for on a day trip to the beach.
From its multicoloured beach huts, to its fun filled promenade. Surrounded by the impressive red cliffs, Sidmouth caters to all ages – little ones who want to explore the rock pools and big kids who want to hop on a boat trip.
Don’t miss Jacob’s Ladder – a series of wooden steps leading to Connaught Gardens, where you can take in the coastal views.
You’ll have worked up an appetite after climbing the steps, so stop for some lunch at The Clocktower – Sidmouth’s premier cafe.
In the summer season, you can take a boat trip along the coast to see the Red Sea stacks at Ladrum Bay.
Seaton Beach

Seaton’s long, pebbly stretch of beach comes with refreshment kiosks and cafes for those essential ice cream breaks.
In the summer months, the thrill-seekers of the family can dive into the water sports on offer at Seaton Bay Watersports with the SUP and kayak rental.
With ample parking, public toilets, and even a tap for water bottle
refills, Seaton caters to all your family’s needs. Dog owners, take note: your furry friends are welcome on East and West Walks, making Seaton a tail-wagging addition to your East Devon beaches bucket list.
The White Cliff observation deck sits on the cliff tops and offers stunning views of Seaton Beach down below – well worth a stop by for a great family photo op.
And if your kids are dippy about dinos, Seaton has one of Devon’s top dinosaur attractions.
Budleigh Salterton

Stretching across two and a half miles of pebbled beach, Budleigh Salterton comes with crystal clear waters, perfect for little paddlers.
There’s also plenty of space for younger ones to explore as well as beach huts that you can rent for the day. Saunter along to the beachside cafes for food choices for the whole family.
Budleigh Salterton in itself is part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – when you see it, you’ll understand why. This town’s unspoilt feel and the sweeping red cliffs make it one of the must visit beaches in East Devon.
Where to find these Devon beaches
Whichever of the beaches in East Devon you choose to visit with your family, you won’t be left disappointed. If you’re ever in other parts of Devon and want some guidance on the best beaches in those areas too, we’ve got even more blogs to help with your planning:
- Top beaches in South Devon
- Must visit North Devon beaches
- Outdoor pools and waterparks
- The best places for outdoor activities

Hungry for more Devon hikes?
Check out the walks recommended by Devon with Kids including pram-friendly strolls, adventure trails and challenging hikes for nature-loving adventurers.
Stomp this way for more walks in Devon.