If you’re heading down to Devon this year you must visit the picturesque, coastal town of Salcombe. Located in the South Hams district of Devon and situated within South Devon’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this pretty town sits on the banks of the Kingsbridge Estuary.
With it’s sparkling turquoise water, golden beaches, hidden coves and breathtaking natural beauty these are just a few reasons why you must visit Salcombe. There are some great eateries as well as independent shops to cater for all tastes.
Whether it’s a day trip or longer, Salcombe should be on your South Devon itinerary.
Why is Salcombe so popular?
Salcombe is a great base for a holiday because it’s pretty coastal location and lovely atmosphere is a draw for many visitors.
There is something for everyone here – whether you’re visiting with kids, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, you love sailing and watersports, or exploring the surrounding area. There’s a host of things to do in and around Salcombe for all ages and somewhere people return, year after year.
Read on for our guide of the best things to see and do in Salcombe, Devon
Things To Do In Salcombe
Visit the Beach in Salcombe
Salcombe is the perfect location for a beach day and there are many stunning beaches to choose from.
The pretty coves of North and South Sands are Salcombe’s main two beaches. Both popular with families, they are the perfect location for a beach day. Both bays have parking and cafe’s nearby.
Across the estuary in East Portlemouth, is the National Trust beach of Mill Bay. It is accessed from the South West coast path and offers stunning views over to Salcombe. Access by car and parking is difficult, so your best bet is to arrive via the Salcombe Ferry.
A short walk from Mill Bay is Sunny Cove, a beautiful secluded beach which looks out over the mouth of Salcombe Estuary. This sandy cove is only accessed via the South West coast path or from the water.
Two miles further along the coast from Mill Bay is Seacombe Sand Beach (Gara Rock Beach). This unspoilt sandy cove has limited accessibility and is reached via the South West Coast Path.
Salcombe Ferry Ride
Catch one of the ferries from Salcombe across the estuary to East Portlemouth or along the coast to South Sands Beach. The kids will love the boat ride and it’s lovely to see a different view of Salcombe from the water.
You can catch the South Sands Ferry which leaves Salcombe every half an hour and is met by the famous sea tractor. This amphibious vehicle travels out into the water to greet the ferry passengers as you arrive at South Sands Beach. You could buy a one-way ticket and walk the 1.5 miles back along the coast to Salcombe, which takes about half an hour.
The Salcombe ferry to East Portlemouth is definitely worth the short journey because the beaches over there are stunning. This ferry runs every half an hour during the day from Whitestrand, in the centre of Salcombe.
The Salcombe Kingsbridge Ferry offers a scenic 35 minute trip each way along the estuary. You’ll pass Saltstone Island, historic lime kilns, hundreds of yachts and boats, a variety of bird life and panoramic views of Salcombe.
Discover the National Trust Overbeck's Garden
Discover this tropical garden tucked away on the cliffs above Salcombe, bursting with colour and filled with exotic plants. Overbeck’s Garden is found above South Sands beach, nestled into the cliffside overlooking the Kingsbridge Estuary. Wander through this hidden gem which includes the Statue Garden, Banana Garden and terraces packed with botanical treasures.
There is a little cafe where you can enjoy a cream tea while enjoying the breathtaking views over the estuary.
Shopping in Salcombe
Explore the narrow streets and quaint shops in Salcombe as you take a walk along Fore Street and Island Street. You’ll find everything from the best bakeries and pasty shop to a wide selection of outdoor shops and boutiques.
Fore Street is the main street in Salcombe and a great place to start when you arrive. Here, you’ll find big brands like Jack Wills, Crew Clothing and Quba Sails which all originated from Salcombe. There are a good selection of pubs and eateries, as well as shops selling stylish homewares, gifts and seaside essentials.
Island Street is the other shopping area you must visit. This is filled with independent businesses, some set up in converted boat sheds.
Have an Ice Cream from Salcombe Dairy
No trip to Salcombe would be complete without visiting the Dairy on Island Street selling locally made ice cream. Produced in the traditional way using milk from the local farm and the best ingredients, this award-winning ice cream is a hit with both the adults and kids.
Watch the ice cream being made through the window before buying a scoop to take away. They also sell drinks and have outdoor seating on the terrace which is a great spot to people watch.
Visit Cranch's Sweet Shop
Another institution in Salcombe and a must visit for children, is Cranch’s Sweet Shop in Fore Street. It’s famous for being Devon’s oldest sweet shop as it’s been around since 1869. You can’t fail to notice Cranch’s – the exterior is painted bright pink with a candy stripe awning! Head inside and you’ll be amazed by the massive selection of traditional sweets and sweet treats from floor to ceiling.
Indulge your sweet tooth from the jars of nostalgic treats including Rhubarb and Custard Boiled Sweets, Strawberry Bonbons and Devon Fudge.
Roly's Fudge Pantry
Be sure to stop off at Roly’s Fudge Pantry on Fore Street, you may smell the sweet treat cooking as you wander by. Pop in to see the fudge being made and sample some tasters.
Try their classic flavours such as Vanilla Clotted Cream, Butterscotch, Chocolate, Maple and Walnut, and Rum ‘n’ Raisin. Or take home some of their fantastic local flavours, including Salcombe Sea Salt and Salcombe Gin Fudge.
Walk the South West Coast Path
Salcombe is a beautiful spot for walking because the South West Coast Path runs straight through and offers some exhilarating walks.
Our favourite route is from Mill Bay to Gara Rock and back. This stretch of the South West Coast Path is rugged, with absolutely spectacular views of the estuary and coastline.
Visit the Maritime Museum in Salcombe
Pop into the Maritime Museum on Market Street which is a treasure trove of Salcombe’s maritime past. It’s free to enter but donations are welcome as it’s a charity and run entirely by volunteers.
Celebrating its 50th year, Salcombe’s Maritime Museum displays a hoard of paintings, photographs, models and artefacts which tell the story of Salcombe’s maritime history, from ancient times to the Second World War.
Fun for the Kids in Salcombe
Go Crabbing from Victoria Quay
Victoria Quay (near the Fortescue pub) is known to be the best crabbing spot in Salcombe. Perfectly located in the town centre, some of Victoria Quay has a small wall in ensure your little ‘uns don’t fall in the water. Or, you can go crabbing over the wall near the lifeboat station.
Equipment you’ll need is a large bucket filled with water, a weighted crab net and bait (bacon is always a winner).
Check the tide times before you head there. You’ll need an incoming or high tide for the best results.
Salcombe Swimming Pool
If you don’t want to swim in the sea, head to Salcombe open air swimming pool on Onslow Road. Take the family for a dip in this heated pool which is open from May to September each year. It is operated by a “not for profit” charity – run by volunteers and with lifeguards on duty.
Watersports in Salcombe
Salcombe Harbour is the perfect place to get out on the water and there’s a wide range of watersport activities to do.
Paddleboarding in the Kingsbridge Estuary
Paddleboarding is one of the fastest growing sports in the world and Salcombe Harbour is the ideal spot to give it a go. Hire a board from Salcombe Watersports which is based at Port Waterhouse.
You can launch your own SUP from one of Salcombe’s beaches. Good launching spots include Mill Bay beach and South Sands.
If you’re launching your own paddleboard, a small fee is payable to the harbour master. Always check the tides and wind direction before launching and always wear a buoyancy aid.
READ MORE: A beginners guide to Stand Up Paddleboarding
Hire a Boat in Salcombe Harbour
Make the most out of your visit to Salcombe by exploring the coast by water. Become a captain for the day and hire a self-drive boat to explore the stunning estuary.
There are several companies where you can rent a boat including Whitestrand Boat Hire which can be booked by the hour (or day), and Salcombe Launch Co. who offer a full day hire. Boats carry up to 8 passengers, and no previous experience is needed, so you can make some fabulous memories with the family.
Where to Eat and Drink in Salcombe
The Winking Prawn
The Winking Prawn in Salcombe is located just over the road from North Sands. Their particular brand of shabby chic beach restaurant always buzzes with activity as people congregate for lunch, BBQ and dinner. Firm favourites are the buckets of prawns and platters of shellfish but they sell a variety of food and drink including afternoon cream teas.
The Ferry Inn, Salcombe
The Ferry Inn is Salcombe’s oldest pub which sits overlooking the estuary. Grab a window seat or if the weather is dry head out onto the terrace. The outside area is the best location for a drink and bite to eat because of the amazing views over the estuary to Portlemouth. It’s also the best seat in town for watching the local regatta in August.
The Crab Shed, Salcombe
The Fish Quay, Gould Road, Salcombe, Devon, TQ8 8DU
Dine at the Crab Shed in Salcombe for their finest fresh fish, shellfish and hand-picked local crab meat. Perched right on the water’s edge overlooking Salcombe harbour, enjoy a relaxed dining experience in their simply furnished restaurant or out on their deck.
The Victoria Inn
You’ll find the Victoria Inn along Fore Street, right in the heart of Salcombe. This popular inn oozes character and has a great outdoor space out the back with a kids play area. Cosy up by the fire in winter or enjoy a drink and meal al fresco in the summer months.
Salcombe Gin Distillery
Salcombe Gin Distillery, Bar, Shop and Gin School is nestled amongst traditional boat builders and independent shops on Island Street. With a host of international and regional awards to their name, gin lovers won’t want to miss this!
Inspired by their coastal location in Salcombe, they have crafted a range of delicious flavours.
Join their Gin School where a master distiller takes you through the process and you create your own bottle of gin. And you can also do gin tastings or simply enjoy a drink at the waterside bar. Look out for their live music evenings at the Distillery and Bar.
If gin is not your thing, the Salcombe Distilling team have also launched their very own range of rum, offering award-winning flavoured and spiced rums. There’s also a tasting and tour experience of their Blending House on Island Street.
Where to stay in Salcombe
Salcombe Harbour Hotel and Spa
Set in a stunning location, it’s no wonder the Salcombe Harbour Hotel wins so many awards. Siting on the waterfront overlooking the estuary, many rooms have balconies and private terraces with panoramic coastal views. With its with a fabulous seafood restaurant, rooftop terrace, cocktail bar, and swimming pool, it’s a all-round winner!
Families are catered for with most rooms fitting cots or extra beds and children having their own menu in the restaurant. There are child-friendly treatments at the spa, children’s swimming times and free use of crabbing buckets.
Salcombe Holiday Cottages
If you’re travelling to Salcombe with family or as a group, you may be looking for self-catering holiday accommodation. There are many holiday cottages in the town to let, just remember to book early because it’s a very popular destination.
When is the best time to visit Salcombe?
The best time to visit Salcombe is during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. There are so many outdoor activities to enjoy here, which are nicer when the weather is warm and sunny.
Where to park in Salcombe
Salcombe Long Stay Car Parks:
North Sands Car Park
(Cliff Road, Salcombe, TQ8 8LD)
South Sands Car Park
(Cliff Road, Salcombe, TQ8 8LL)Shadycombe Car Park
(Shadycombe Road, Salcombe, TQ8 8ND)The Creek Car Park
(Gould Road, Salcombe, TQ8 8DU)Bonfire Hill Car Park
(Bonfire Hill, Salcombe, TQ8 8EL)
Salcombe Short Stay Car Parks:
- Whitestrand Car Park
(Fore Street, Salcombe, TQ8 8JE)
What is there to visit near Salcombe?
- Start Point Lighthouse Tour
- Visit Bigbury on Sea and Burgh Island
- Have fun at Woodlands Family Theme Park
- Explore Hope Cove
- A day out at Pennywell Farm
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