5 Blue Flag Beaches to Visit in Devon

blackpool sands beach

Devon is a county in southwestern England, known for its stunning coastline and beautiful Devonshire beaches. If you’re looking for a clean and safe beach to visit, you may want to consider a beach that has been awarded the Blue Flag.

The Blue Flag is an international award given to beaches that meet strict criteria for water quality, safety, and environmental management. Here are some of the best Blue Flag beaches in Devon:

Woolacombe Beach

Woolacombe Beach is a three-mile long stretch of golden sand located on the north coast of Devon. The beach is popular with surfers, thanks to its strong waves, and it is also a great spot for swimming and paddling.

Woolacombe Beach is also a brilliant dog-friendly beach in Devon, and has received the Blue Flag award for many years. The beach has a lifeguard station, as well as toilets, showers, and a beach cafe.

Blackpool Sands

Blackpool Sands is a sheltered cove located on the south coast of Devon, that’s often featured in Devon’s marketing campaigns. The beach is known for its crystal-clear water and soft, golden sand, making it a great spot for swimming and paddling.

Blackpool Sands has received the Blue Flag award for its clean water and excellent facilities, which include toilets, showers, and a beach cafe. The beach is also home to a small, shingle-covered island that is accessible at low tide.

Goodrington Sands

Goodrington Sands is a large, sandy beach near the town of Paignton on the south coast of Devon. The beach is a popular destination for families, with plenty of space for sunbathing and sandcastles.

Goodrington Sands has received the Blue Flag award for its clean water, and it also has a lifeguard station for added safety. The beach has toilets, showers, and a beach cafe, as well as a small amusement park with rides and games.

Broadsands Beach

Broadsands Beach is a small, sheltered beach located near the town of Brixham on the south coast of Devon. It can be tricky to find and is a bit of a hidden gem, but is well worth it when you get there. Every time I visit it makes me feel as though I’m in Swiss Family Robinson, or on a secret treasure island!

Broadsands is a great spot for swimming and paddling in the calm waters, but you do really need to be physically fit to get to the beach as there are a lot of steps down a cliff face. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and wooded valleys, making it a beautiful spot to explore.

Slapton Sands

Slapton Sands is a long, sandy beach on the south coast of Devon is a great spot for beachcombing and picnics, and has received the Blue Flag award for its clean water and high standards of management.

Slapton Sands also has a lifeguard station and a beach cafe, as well as toilets and showers. The beach is located near the village of Slapton, which has a small shop and a nice pub. The beach is surrounded by fields and woods, making it a peaceful spot to relax on a sunny summer’s day.

Visit a Blue Flag beach this summer

Blue Flag beaches in Devon are a great choice for a safe and enjoyable day by the sea. These beaches have been awarded the Blue Flag for meeting strict criteria for water quality, safety, and environmental management.

Whether you’re looking for a beach for swimming, surfing, or just relaxing, Devon has many Blue Flag beaches to choose from. Woolacombe Beach, Blackpool Sands, Goodrington Sands, Broadsands Beach, and Slapton Sands are all excellent options, each with its own unique character and amenities.

Whether you prefer a long, sandy beach with strong waves, a sheltered cove with crystal-clear water, or a small, secluded beach surrounded by cliffs and wooded valleys, you’ll find a Blue Flag beach in Devon that suits your needs.

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