Key Features
- Property code: 12BOLT
- Preferred changeover day: Friday
- Check in: 4pm
- Check out: 10am
- 2 or more bathrooms
- Access statement available
- Near beach
- Central heating
- Parking (see description for details)
- Dishwasher
- Electric vehicle charging (see description)
- Ground floor accommodation
- Garden or outside space
- Tumble dryer
- Washing machine
- Waterside
- WiFi
Description
Bolt Head is a highly sought-after collection of quality apartments situated on the hillside overlooking South Sands. 12 Bolt Head is a well-presented first-floor apartment that boasts two balconies, one of which has stunning views of the beach below and Salcombe estuary, the other is west facing and catches the afternoon and evening sun. It is in an ideal location for accessing two popular nearby sandy beaches and the South West Coast Path. The property has the rare feature of having two designated parking spaces.
Please note that this property is all on one level and there is level access from the parking area.
Please note There is an electric car charging facility at The Bolt Apartments. Please request on booking. Charges apply.
Key Features
- Property code: 12BOLT
- Preferred changeover day: Friday
- Check in: 4pm
- Check out: 10am
- 2 or more bathrooms
- Access statement available
- Near beach
- Central heating
- Parking (see description for details)
- Dishwasher
- Electric vehicle charging (see description)
- Ground floor accommodation
- Garden or outside space
- Tumble dryer
- Washing machine
- Waterside
- WiFi
Description
Bolt Head is a highly sought-after collection of quality apartments situated on the hillside overlooking South Sands. 12 Bolt Head is a well-presented first-floor apartment that boasts two balconies, one of which has stunning views of the beach below and Salcombe estuary, the other is west facing and catches the afternoon and evening sun. It is in an ideal location for accessing two popular nearby sandy beaches and the South West Coast Path. The property has the rare feature of having two designated parking spaces.
Please note that this property is all on one level and there is level access from the parking area.
Please note There is an electric car charging facility at The Bolt Apartments. Please request on booking. Charges apply.
Entrance hall with space for coats and shoes.
Open plan living room with lounge area with sofa, two armchairs, Smart TV, dining table to seat up to 6 people and access to balcony with beach and sea views.
Kitchen area Fitted kitchen with electric oven and induction hob, fridge-freezer, dishwasher, washer-dryer, microwave and waste disposal unit.
Master bedroom with 5ft king bed, Smart TV, armchair, built-in wardrobe, chest of drawers, access to private balcony and en suite shower room with large shower cubicle, basin, heated towel rail, shaver point and WC.
Bedroom 2 with 3ft twin beds, chest of drawers and built-in wardrobe.
Family bathroom with bath, basin, heated towel rail, shaver point and WC.
Balcony off lounge with small table, seating for four and views over South Sands and down the harbour. Further balcony off master bedroom with views of parts of the beach and the South Sands valley, and two recliners. Landscaped grounds, communal seating and private steps to the road leading to South Sands beach. No barbecues allowed.
The beautiful waterside town of Salcombe, with its outlook across the stunning harbour to golden beaches and the sparkling sea beyond, is one of South Devon's most desirable holiday cottage destinations. A mecca for sailors and water sports enthusiast, and a playground for the rich and famous, Salcombe is the UK's answer to Saint-Tropez.
In the summer months, traditional sailing boats race past the Princess Yachts moored in the harbour, while sports cars cruise through Fore Street, past buzzing designer clothes stores and local boutiques. The shops and restaurants located by the waterfront exude the perfect nautical vibe, complementing the boatbuilding heritage that has long served the local townsfolk lucky enough to live in this scenic, naturally sheltered harbour.
Strolling down Fore Street you will find a tempting selection of cafes, delis, restaurants, and pubs to frequent, whilst children (and adults!) will insist on a trip to the old fashioned sweet shop, Cranch's, or treat them to delicious local ice cream at the Salcombe Dairy. The recently refurbished, family and dog-friendly pub, The Victoria Inn, serves excellent food and also operates a 'man crèche' that may be useful for more relaxed shopping trips!
A little ferry makes the short trip back and forth to the golden sands of East Portlemouth and the dog-friendly beaches at Mill Bay and Sunny Cove, whilst the energetic can pick up the South West Coast Path from here to enjoy unrivalled scenery from the rugged clifftop trail. The beach at North Sands is an easy stroll from town, where you'll find The Winking Prawn, a child-friendly institution amongst locals and holiday makers alike, where diners can enjoy delicious food and drink for breakfast, lunch or dinner... or all three if you fancy a full day on the beach.
The exquisite Overbeck's National Trust, just a little further along the coast at South Sands, is well worth a visit for the spectacular views and world famous gardens, capable of growing a broad range of rare and exotic plants not commonly found on these shores thanks to the site's unique location, perched high on the coastline and open to the Gulf Stream.
Outside of the peak season, visitors can expect to find a much quieter town more akin to a sleepy West Country village. However, the shops and restaurants generally stay open throughout the year, and the natural beauty of the area is so abundant that Salcombe remains a fantastic holiday destination all year round.
A holiday cottage in Salcombe has all the ingredients for a relaxing seaside holiday in a simply stunning area of outstanding natural beauty.
Designated parking for two cars in private outdoor parking area (to access the parking area guests need to drive through a covered area which has a 1.9m height restriction). Limited visitor spaces available on site (no height restriction).
Please note there is an electric car charging facility at The Bolt Head Appartments. Please request on booking. Charges apply.
- Included: All duvets, pillows, bed linen and bath towels (except those for the beach) are provided. Electricity and electric heating. Travel cot and high chair.
- Telephone: Telephone for emergency and incoming calls only. Mobile reception good. Wi-Fi.
- Pets: Sorry, no pets.
- Local facilities: South Sands beach 0.2 miles with seasonal passenger ferry that runs to the town centre, South Sands Hotel, Bo’s beach café and watersports. North Sands beach and The Winking Prawn restaurant under 1 mile. Other shops, pubs and restaurants in Salcombe 1.5 miles. Kingsbridge with supermarkets and all other facilities 6 miles.
Beachside Restaurant
(Less than a mile)
(7)
Enjoy the sea views from this bright and airy restaurant within the South Sands Hotel. Seafood is the speciality here, with the dishes created to suit the seasons as well as the day’s catch. A fine selection of high quality spirits, cocktails and wines are also available.
Beachside Restaurant South Sands Hotel, Bolt Head, Salcombe TQ8 8LL (T: 01548 845900)
First class. Comfortable bar with an excellent and good service.
April 2024
Lovely airy restaurant with sublime views out to sea, great food and friendly, unpretentious service. We had local mussels and a delicious Provence rose in the warm sunshine - what could be better!
January 2023
We enjoyed a really delicious lunch at the South Sands’ hotel Beachside restaurant. Our table overlooked the beach with beautiful views across the estuary. We had a selection of starters and mains, all choosing fish or seafood. Particularly recommend the mackerel pate, crab linguini and fish of the day – seabass. Service was great; friendly, attentive and knowledgeable, recommending a great wine from the wine list and a mocktail for our designate driver.
January 2023
We had three visits to the South Sands and each time were very pleased with the service, atmosphere and standard. The food is exceptional, fairly expensive but well priced because it is delicious and the staff are so friendly and attentive yet professional. The head waiter remembered us from the previous night and gave us the same table even though we booked over the telephone - he must have remembered our name! Will most definitely dine there again and maybe even stay - the accommodation looked good too.
August 2019
Excellent seafood! Very accommodating staff. The location overlooking the beach is great - ask for a table in the window. Quite pricey but worth it for a treat.
August 2019
Friendly, comfortable and great service every time i ve been (about 8 times)
November 2018
Only went here for drinks but it was a beautiful hotel.we sat outside overlooking the beach ,what a spot! Staff were very friendly and efficient.
June 2017
The Winking Prawn
(Less than a mile)
(42)
A quirky beach- shack style café with plenty of inside and outside seating, and a menu brimming with quality local seafood and other tempting options. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as popular daily barbeques in high season. Ice creams, coffees, wines, beers and snacks available throughout the day.
The Winking Prawn North Sands, Salcombe TQ8 8LD (T: 01548 842326)
Very enjoyable lunch, food delicious and service was great.
September 2023
Loved this! Sat outside, 7 of us including a baby for whom they provided a highchair. Between us we ordered popcorn shrimps, crab baguettes, crab and prawn salad, scallop salad, winking prawn fries and it was all delicious. Slight annoyance was ordering via an app which took ages and my daughter had to go in and ask to change something and it wasn’t possible. Didn’t spoil our enjoyment though.
July 2023
We love the winking prawn! Cool atmosphere, amazing food can’t beat the seafood platter!
July 2023
Worth a visit, but they should drop the app and go back to a personal service.
July 2023
A great place to eat at any time of the day .Families very welcome a great menu and so handy to pop across to the beach . Staff very helpful and friendly.
July 2023
Love the Winking Prawn. We visited May 2023, shared the fruit de mer, the moment we saw it was a wow moment, looked incredible and tasted great.
May 2023
Love this beach bar never disappointed great food
May 2023
Before making the amazing walk from North Sands to Salcome which is not to be missed, have a bite to eat at The Winking Prawn. Nice staff and food good.
April 2023
Had an excellent meal served by pleasant staff with the added attraction of North Sands
March 2023
Always enjoy the food at the Winking Prawn, we love the location and the fact their dog friendly is a real bonus.
October 2022
Excellent cafe with varied menu and delicious food, all served by helpful and friendly staff
July 2022
Went here several years ago and was a great experience so we decided to call in again on this holiday. They urge you to use an app on your phone to place your order. Its a TAKEAWAY APP ???? REAlly!!!! I'm tech savvy but what a pain it was, then asked for loads of details and I couldn't use Apple pay. Gave up and asked for someone to take our order. £31 for two sandwiches and two coffees. Definitely not value for money. I picked the stake sandwich. Two slices of bread, a bit of chewy steak and several pieces of lettuce. The blue cheese sauce was nice but hey cant go wrong with that. Wouldn't waste your money. Just overpriced for what you get
July 2022
Really lovely during the day. Friendly, good food although a bit expensive. Very disappointed that only bbq in the evening. We would normally eat here a few evenings. There’s no where else in easy walking distance of north sands. Also it was closed by 8 in the evening. Definitely worth a visit for lunch or coffee.
July 2022
Great fun to sit and relax by the sea, people watch and eat fantastic prawns & seafood. Ordering app a bit problematic as some of us didn't have a signal and therefore couldn't connect with bank to pay.
June 2022
Had lunch here twice and it was great - food lovely, nice atmosphere, helpful staff but awful ordering system didn’t help having a poor phone signal!!!!
May 2022
Beautiful location but quite pricy and make sure they have your order correct we ordered a glass of Chilean Sauvignon but received New Zealand which we didn’t realise until bill arrived and cost considerably more. Service was very friendly though so didn’t complain
May 2022
Fantastic lunch at the Winking Prawn. We ate there a few times whilst at the beach. Great coffee too and efficient service
May 2022
Great location but service quite slow. They are so busy you don't get the impression they're that bothered with you!
May 2022
Great little find - lovely food, best hot chocolate and lovely service
April 2022
Fab! Delicious food, lovely surroundings, pleasant staff and cakes to die for!
April 2022
stopped here for coffee and must admit this is a nice money making restauarant
October 2021
Used to visit here often but closed this time ( early October ) even though there were plenty of visitors about.
October 2021
Great location and good food
September 2021
We had lunch twice here during our 7 day holiday in salcombe. We couldn’t fault it, staff very friendly and food was good. Also I liked how they always thoroughly cleaned down the tables after people left.
September 2021
Nice place, expensive but plenty of room and staff. Staff expected everyone to order via the app - most annoying.
August 2021
We couldn’t book only queue for a table. Using their booking app to order is cumbersome but help is at hand if needed. However they have put a system in place that seems to work and we didn’t have to queue for long the 3 times we ate there. The food is limited to barbecued food and presentation to match. Despite this the food was very good and so was the service. We were lucky enough to have a week of good weather and with plenty of tables outside the system worked but I can see this being a problem in cold and wet days because there are limited tables inside.
June 2021
Excellent food, friendly and helpful staff. Good value for money. Very Covid safe. Dog friendly
May 2021
Wow, what a place! Everywhere around Salcombe is excellent but if you visit just 1 place, whether for breakfast, lunch or dinner, make it this place! Wonderful food, first class service, quirky decor, great atmosphere and a location to die for - right on North Sands Beach
November 2020
Always a must. Good quality beach cafe.
November 2020
Great place to eat, walking distance (very steep uphill on way home - fortify yourself). Good seafood but not cheap. Lovely to sit outside - not sure how good if the weather not good!
September 2020
Biggest, best value for money crab sandwich around! Great for a sandwich lunch or a treat scallop salad. Super family friendly.
February 2020
OK but overpriced.
October 2019
Lovely location , excellent food choice . Unfortunately the staff let the winking prawn down . Atmosphere behind the serving counter and some members of staff abrupt . Waitress/ waiters could do with being a little happier in their role . We did think maybe a bad day but we visited again and experienced the same situation . Such a shame as when we came 10 years ago and 17 years ago wonderful experience all round .
September 2019
Excellent - we had two lunches and one evening meal here. Thoroughly recommend.
July 2019
Always a must when visiting Salcombe. Wonderful seafood restaurant almost on the beach. Don’t miss it!
June 2018
We visited the Winking Prawn for breakfast on the last day of our holiday, after hearing from numerous friends that we mustn't leave Salcombe without having sampled their legendary breakfast! We were not disappointed. It's perfect for families, as rather than having to choose from a menu and then ask for substitutions for things you don't like, you just choose how you like your eggs, and then help yourself to as much as you want of bacon, sausages, beans, toast, fried potatoes, mushrooms, tomatoes and black pudding. It's all great quality and regularly topped up, so we left happy and set up for the day ahead! The service is helpful and friendly and the beachside location is gorgeous, I would love to go back for lunch and dinner next time we're in South Devon. Highly recommended!
May 2018
Great place. Very dog friendly. Good food.
September 2017
Great food. Excellent location. Tiny car park, though, and a bit on the prices side!
August 2017
Great place to look at but it is overpriced. You can't see the sea from there due to the sea wall but it is there so handy if you've been on the beach.
July 2017
We ate here 3 times in all and were made really welcome. A great place if you have dogs who can have a swim on North Sands Beach right opposite! Very fresh and tasty sea-food and one night we enjoyed the BBQ which was great value for money, all swilled down with a bottle or three of their lovely house rose wine. A place to sit and watch the world go by, and great for an evening/afternoon out with friends and/or dogs.
June 2017
Grossly overpriced.
June 2017
Can't believe that this is the first review of this ever popular food outlet. Perfect location on the beach at north sands, plenty to entertain the kids and food is good, decent grub. A must visit if you're in the area.
May 2017
Crabby Cuisine
(Less than a mile)
(1)
Delicious Salcombe crab delivered to your door with a choice of dips to choose from. No trip to Salcombe is complete without sampling it's famous local crab and Crabby Cuisine takes out all the hassle by delivering it fresh,dressed and delicious to your holiday property. The perfect supper after a day lazing on the beach.
Click here for further details or call Lizzie on 07538 288248
Great food and friendly staff! I would definitely recommend!
October 2023
The Jetty Restaurant
(Less than a mile)
(10)
A sleek and stylish restaurant within the Salcombe Harbour Hotel serving inventive, and beautifully presented, local and seasonal dishes. Muted tones, wonderful views and attentive staff make for a memorable meal.
The Jetty Restaurant Salcombe Harbour Hotel, Cliff Road, Salcombe TQ8 8JH (T: 01548 844444)
We had a great meal here. I have a few dietary requirements and they were more than happy to help.
May 2022
Disappointing meal at Jetty. Overpriced and food not great.
April 2022
By a country mile, the very best place to eat in Salcombe!
September 2021
Went to celebrate our wedding anniversary, we got first class service and the food was great.
September 2021
Nice ambience, attentive staff and good food.
September 2021
Wonderful views and lovely meal
June 2021
Lovely setting and friendly and efficient service but the menu was limited for a hotel, maybe due to current circumstances, which was a tad disappointing.
September 2020
Quite pricey for very average food and service. Great views of the estuary though.
August 2019
Ive been here a number of times over the last few years - its always been fabulous
November 2018
Rude service and overly long wait for drinks. The pubs in town were much friendlier and welcoming
May 2018
Sailor V
(2 miles)
(7)
A great place to stop for breakfast of lunch as well as coffees, teas, cakes and other treats in the centre of town.
Sailor V 36 Fore Street, Salcombe TQ8 8JE (T: 01548 843555)
Great food and friendly service when we visited for breakfast, lovely fresh food and the best fresh pear juice ever...
August 2022
Very friendly
July 2022
Excellent breakfast. Full English of course!
October 2021
Great place for breakfast or lunch. Food freshly cooked and staff very friendly.
September 2021
Always friendly service here. Good coffee. Great menu. Just wish they did more than scramble their eggs.
February 2020
Reasonable food at reasonable (for Salcombe) prices, served reasonably efficiently by staff with a reasonable command of English. It was a shame that they messed up our order, but it was reasonably quickly rectified, with courtesy. Reasonable.
April 2017
Great coffee and cakes
December 2016
Overbecks National Trust
(Less than a mile)
(22)
Once owned by inventor and scientist Otto Overbeck, this National Trust property and its gardens are perched high on the cliffs overlooking Salcombe with glorious views of the coast and estuary below. The house and gardens are both full of surprises from seasonal exhibitions and displays to permanent collections of historic artefacts, and of course the beautiful subtropical gardens to roam around in. They have a delightful café which serves a wonderful afternoon tea in the summer months, and they also host a number of events for children through the peak season, so it’s worth keeping an eye on the website for those too!
Beautiful garden with stunning views
September 2023
Definitely worth the climb up the hill. A place you can visit numerous times.
July 2023
Been to Overbecks for many, many years. Much looking forward to it reopening properly after refurbishment, paid very brief visit in 2023 and indeed since the work began. Gave substantial donation towards mending of the steps some time ago, would like to have proper refreshments again looking at them1
June 2023
Stunning well kept gardens. Nt Volunteers were so helpful allowing us to bring the car up to the entrance to save my 95 year old mother walking up the steep hill. Beautiful views and wonderful plants.
May 2023
Fabulous gardens with great views, and close to the South West coastal path for further walks and views. Parking is very limited, we took a ferry from Salcombe to South Sands beach and walked from there. Perfect.
August 2022
The gardens are well worth a visit, with lots of exotic plants and great views. We walked from Bolt Head apartments,which is only a short distance but very steep. Very limited parking at Overbecks, suggest walk there or take ferry from Salcombe to south Sands.
July 2022
Really lovely relaxing garden with gorgeous views. Steep and on different levels but a great afternoon out, especially the walk there too, past North and South Sands, and you can get the South Sands ferry back to Salcombe.
June 2022
Visited here many times over the years. Garden magnificent as usual but very disappointed to find the shop, cafe and museum closed ( early October 2021 ). Seems that there is some uncertainty if they will ever reopen.
October 2021
Lovely garden viewed on a lovely day. Impressed with the colour at the end of September. Well worth a visit
October 2021
Brilliant garden - nice little cafe too. Friendly staff and good information. Downside was having to pre book.
August 2021
The house was not open because of Covid 19. The gardens were wonderful with plenty of interesting plants & remarkable views.
October 2020
The most stunning gardens with the best views ever.
September 2020
Love it here! Always something for the family to do and the kids love roaming the paths, playing hide and seek or hunting for things on a trail. Less going on inside, feels like they've removed much of the history of the house, especially upstairs - open more rooms/tell more of the story! Cream tea is a must!
February 2020
Lovely subtropical gardens.Beautiful sea views. Lovely house and tearoom. Narrow windy steep roads to reachthe property only downfall .
October 2019
lovely day out but why doesn't the information tell you how narrow and windy the access roads are?
August 2019
We have visited Overbecks many times, but this year for the first time we visited in Spring, the garden was beautiful with so many spring flowers and amazing magnolias. The views as always are fantastic , a lovely way to spend a few hours.
April 2019
Lovely exotic garden with fabulous estuary views. Interesting museum. Excellent café.
July 2018
Stunning gardens and really interesting selection of plants. Amazing views and extremely peaceful. Very approachable staff and an enjoyable tour from a knowledgeable gardener. We also enjoyed a cream tea on the grass overlooking Salcombe. Heaven!!
July 2018
Interesting house, with Good Cafe. Best feature is the sub tropical garden with fantastic views over the Salcombe Estuary.
June 2018
We make sure we visit Overbecks every time we come to South Devon. It's a such a beautiful and peaceful spot with the most amazing location. The front lawn is the perfect place to sit and have a cream tea and there is plenty to keep the children interested too.
February 2018
Stunning!
June 2017
Such a beautiful spot. Amazing views of Salcombe and out to sea. The house is quite interesting and but we loved the gardens best. We had a great tour with Sam and then enjoyed a cream tea on the lawn!
December 2016
Salcombe Sea Kayak
(Less than a mile)
(4)
Based at sunny South Sands in Salcombe, Salcombe Sea Kayak is the adventure paddle company linked to Bo’s Beach Café, so you know that in addition to an unforgettable seaside experience you can get a good cup of tea and a piece of cake afterwards to warm up. Offering kayak tours, white water sea adventure tours, full day tours and all the equipment to go with it, the experienced team will guide you along the South Hams coastline that boasts 68 beaches including secluded bays, isolated coves and caves and gullies to explore. Bring your sense of adventure and you’re ready to go.
Click here for further details
We had an absolute blast on the kayaks - great fun!
July 2023
Fabulous way to explore the coastline, and the team are extremely happy and helpful!
July 2022
We had a great morning kayaking. Highly recommend a trip out with Ben and his team.
May 2019
Very friendly staff with excellent knowledge and very safety conscious. Wet suits available if required at no extra charge. Staff happy to offer a quick tutorial if needed and suggestions of where to paddle.
July 2017
North Sands Watersports
(Less than a mile)
(2)
Whether you want to rent from their base in Salcombe or buy a paddle board or inflatable kayak to use on your holiday, North Sands Watersports offer high quality equipment and excellent customer service to enable you to safely enjoy time on the water.
Click here for further details
Easy walk from the property with seats right next to the beach so no sandy feet if you don't want them. Good toilets and the cafe is very well stocked with nice staff.
July 2022
Really good equipment and helpful staff
July 2021
Hassle Free Hiking
(Less than a mile)
(1)
For those wanting to walk a stretch of the South West Coast Path, or explore the river valleys of southern Dartmoor, Hassle Free Hiking can help plan your itinerary, provide first-hand tips and walking notes, and drop you and your bags off to your start point, then pick you up at your destination to bring you back to your holiday cottage. A really useful service for non-circular walks, coupled with invaluable local knowledge.
Click here for further details
Great for walking and the views are fantastic.
July 2023
Sea n Shore
(Less than a mile)
(3)
A super friendly water sports company offering RYA courses, events and family friendly days out on the water around Salcombe. A popular choice is the thrilling Fast Rib Ride, a 75 minute 007 style high speed rib ride taking in the magnificent South Devon coastline and its wildlife. Or groups can try the exciting half day treasure hunts where teams are challenged to carry out fun tasks culminating in a raft race. Other options include more relaxing rib rides up the Salcombe estuary taking in lunch and drinks, coasteering trips, wakeboarding, water skiing and banana boat rides.
Sea n Shore are very flexible and can tailor courses and activities to your requirements. They can also provide lunch time hampers, or decadent cream teas with champagne to enjoy on your day out.
Sea n Shore (T: 01548 842276 M: 07713 745609)
Hired a rib for the day which was perfect for cruising around the coast and up to Kingsbridge
September 2021
We had a brilliant time on the fast rib with Sea and Shore. Great fun and an amazing way to see the coastline.
February 2017
Had a brilliant ride on the RIB. Saw seals out near Start Point and the remains of the lost village of Hallsands. Good information and great fun on the boat. Suitable for kids and adults
January 2017
South Sands, Salcombe
(Less than a mile)
(6)
Bit too far to cycle from centre of Salcombe for a swim, but do visit regularly. Used to stay at Bolt Head when it was an hotel, so remember it fondly.
June 2023
The new Harbour hotel at South Sands has wonderful views over the estuary and is worth stopping there for a quick lunch before continuing up to the overbecks
April 2023
North Sands better for beach but South Sands cafe and tractor/ferry are great.
June 2022
Rude staff on ferry - expecting people to wear mask on an outdoor boat trip ! Made to feel like we were an inconvenience- very poor.
August 2021
Great - kids loved the big building Site
August 2020
A beautiful sandy beach that is superb for children as you have to go out quite a way before the water gets deep. Water sports available. Access is via very narrow lanes so be prepared to reverse and parking is very limited.
July 2017
North Sands, Salcombe
(Less than a mile)
(17)
The first beach as you walk along the Cliff Road out of Salcombe, North Sands sits in a valley and is a sandy horseshoe shaped beach that’s expansive at low tide. Thanks to its shape and location, it’s extremely popular in the summer because there’s plenty of space to set up camp for the day with buckets, spades and fishing nets in tow for avid marine biologists and sand castle connoisseurs. The beach has a fresh water stream running through it from the top of the valley, which, aside from providing hours of entertainment for accompanying dogs and a marvellous place to wash the sand off your feet, also means that the beach is largely wet sand, so don’t forget to take something to sit on if you’re heading there for the day. Popular with swimmers, despite the chilly water, North Sands provides a wonderful view out of the mouth of the Salcombe estuary and into the deep blue yonder so, for keen photographers, it’s ideal. If the weather is right then it’s a favourite amongst body boarders or even surfers on choppier days, and it’s a great place to take the paddle boards and kayaks if you happen to have them. Dogs are allowed on the beach all year round, unlike many of the beaches in the area, there are toilets over the road and there’s a car park with charges from £1 throughout the year. The cherry on top of this beautiful location is The Winking Prawn café and restaurant that’s right next to the beach. Open all year round they serve everything from breakfast, lunch and dinner to coffee, tea and cake, and in the summer they provide a barbecue in the garden overlooking the sea. It is popular though so leave a little time to queue for that Salcombe Dairy honeycomb ice cream in the height of summer!
A wonderful sheltered bay, the sea is so clean and lovely to swim in. Disabled access and dog friendly with the lovely cafe close by.
October 2023
Very nice beach. Very clean.
July 2023
Swim here daily when in Salcombe.
June 2023
A great dog friendly beach. Check the tide times, go at low tide, makes a fabulous beach to look for shells, relax in the sun, and walk in the stuff with your dog.
May 2023
Excellent beach for dogs
May 2023
Nice beach it's great dog friendly beach
May 2023
What a beautiful place to walk to along Coast Road from Salcombe town. The view through the trees to the amazing colour of the water is breathtaking and North Sands is spectacular. We could have sat just people watching all day. The winking prawn is a lovely place for a drink or bite to eat.
July 2022
Lovely beach which is a quick walk down from the property, food and toilets but neither used.
July 2022
Brilliant beach for all the family within walking distance of cottage. Car park and toilets nearby.
May 2022
Fantastic clean beach. Dog friendly
September 2021
Excellent clean and safe dog friendly beach. Very friendly and helpful locals.
May 2021
Lovely clean family friendly beach
July 2020
Lovely beach , easily accessible , particularly with elderly members in the party .
September 2019
North Sands is a wonderful beach great for families, the winking prawn restaurant is great for anything from snacks to a full meal stunning views out to sea
October 2018
Very nice beach for dog lovers and good café.
July 2018
Gorgeous, just stunning! Brilliant beach, fabulous cafe (Winking Prawn) and good priced car park! Love, love, love it!!
August 2017
Superb safe and stunningly picturesque
June 2017
Mill Bay
(2 miles)
(29)
Lovely little beach with with views across the bay to Salcombe
October 2023
Stunning! Great car park, perfect for dogs, at low tide you can walk along the beach to east portlemouth and Venus cafe.
September 2023
Lovely quiet beach, clean beach & sea
July 2023
Lovely place to spend some time.
July 2023
Lovely clean beach with great views
May 2023
Lovely clean beach, easily accessible from our holiday cottage.
July 2022
Bit of a walk but well worth it - spacious beach, fabulous views and shallow waters.
June 2022
Brilliant beach 3 miles from the cottage
June 2022
Gorgeous little Bay close to where we were staying our dog. Loved fetching his ball in and out the water. Very pretty spot.
April 2022
Lovely beach and you can walk to Gara rock from here and along beach to the ferry crossing to salcombe
March 2022
Great beach. Bumpy access road as sand has blown across it. Slightly marred by 1-2 selfish dog owners who have left their calling cards
November 2021
We were lucky enough to spend 3 days on this beautiful beach. Fabulous place ??
September 2021
Fantastic beach one of the best in the area. Have to get to car park (National Trust) very early if you don't want to carry all your stuff to the beach.
September 2021
We attempted to drive to Mill Bay car park- not a good idea in August! No parking spaces, no turning points. We tried another day, parking at Gara Rock and asking down the bridle path. We have a disabled granddaughter, the walk down was manageable but the return walk was much more difficult. Beautiful beach and worth the walk.
September 2021
Lovely, clean, sandy beach in wonderful location with beautiful views and easy access from Salcombe via the East Portlemouth ferry.
August 2021
Lovely beach, clear water
July 2021
Lovely beach for children to play on.
June 2021
Favourite beach going back to my childhood. The road to it was closed due to a land slip in January. Talked to the workmen who said it was due to reopen November 2020.
October 2020
Lovely beach but this year overrun with people arriving by motor boat- so it felt a little worrying for kids to swim out among them,(and frankly it spoilt the view) and engine noise/fumes at the end of the day as everyone left!
September 2020
Wonderful
September 2019
I endorse all of the other favourable comments and emphasise the urgent need to make the lavatories hygienic. In fact all of the public conveniences are anything but convenient.
September 2019
Lovely beach, handy to have little food caravan selling crepes, drinks and ice cream, good quality too. The toilets were disgusting though and should have been cleaned more regularly, also waste bins overflowing.
August 2019
Great place for a day on the beach. Safe and dog friendly
August 2019
Lovely large sandy beach, perfect for young children who want to play in the strem and build dams, or play in the sea without large waves!
July 2019
Great beach
October 2018
A fabulous beach. Especially great fun at low tide for a water loving Labrador. We enjoyed our visits here. We also loved the passenger ferry from here to Salcombe. Beautiful beach.
October 2018
Beautiful beach lovely and clean. Small car park free to N.T. members. Highly recommended. Drawback no immediate café available. Venus café nearest but a trek if not mobile.
September 2018
Lovely beach well worth a visit. Dog friendly as well. Well worth the £7-50 national trust car parking fee.
July 2018
amazing beach, dog friendly, only downside is the toilets near the National Trust hut are very poor
July 2018
Sunny Cove
(2 miles)
(7)
Accessed either by boat, via a 10-minute walk through the woods from parking at Mill Bay, or a stroll from the Salcombe to East Portlemouth Ferry, Sunny Cove is a sandy beach which, as you might expect, catches the sun throughout the day, weather pending. It’s on the East Portlemouth side of the Salcombe Estuary opposite North Sands beach and Fort Charles, the ruined fortification that was originally constructed during the reign of Henry VIII to defend the Kingsbridge Estuary against French and Spanish Pirates. It’s a relatively gentle spot for swimming and ideal for picnics, lazy summer afternoons, and reaching on kayaks and paddle boards from other nearby beaches as well as being the perfect spot for building sandcastles. That said, the tide can come in quite quickly so make sure you don’t get caught out and be careful of the swell when bringing boats into the beach. Head there for the day in the summer or as a stop off en route to the café at Gara Rock or a longer walk along the coast path towards Prawle Point. Dogs are welcome all year round but keep in mind that there aren’t any facilities in the immediate vicinity (it would be a 10-15-minute walk along wooded footpaths) so take your sandwiches with you!
Gorgeous, quiet and very clean beach.
June 2023
Stunning bay ,Quiet and secluded
October 2021
Lovely little beach worth the walk or paddle!
July 2021
We didn’t know about this. Whilst appreciating the need to keep things to a minimum, local information like this could have been uploaded digitally. We made 2 attempts to locate a beach without success.
October 2020
The beach and the views were superb
September 2019
A nice sandy beach, crowded on a sunny day. but access quite tricky - a long walk for children if no room in the NT car park, and then a long walk back afterwards.
August 2019
Best reached by direct boat access but easy enough walk from ferry or mill bay car park. Our favourite beach.
August 2018
Gara Rock Beach
(2 miles)
(12)
A bit tricky getting down to the beach but worth it.
September 2023
Super dog friendly beach and the children had a lovely time too, it was pretty busy but it was a bank holiday!
June 2022
VERY PEACEFULL AND NO CROWDS
September 2021
Superb location, excellent service. We were unable to book beforehand but were fortunate to be able to secure a table.
September 2021
Beautiful sandy and pebbly cove... we spent 2 gorgeous days there with our dog! Be prepared for steep climb back to Gara Rock restaurant but worth it!
July 2021
After driving an hour through Devon drizzle we were not impressed to be turned away because we weren't guests. "or you can sit outside and have coffee from the Garavan". Lesson learned: Don't go unless you're booked.
October 2020
We had a beautiful meal with stunning views at Gara Rock. The staff were friendly and attentive and the food was divine. We also had spa treatments for the group, who left feeling relaxed and radiant.
September 2020
Lovely secluded beach, dog friendly and easy to get to.
July 2020
Go there for the coastal walk. Fantastic. Stop at the hotel for a coffee, the views are stunning
September 2019
A lovely beach (although quite "weedy"), almost deserted the morning we were there, and well worth the tricky path down and the steep climb back
August 2019
My favourite beach in the country, nothing run of the mill here, lovely views
July 2019
Lovely beach. We arrived early after a steep walk down the cliff path. Had the beach initially to ourselves! Starts to get busier as the day goes on.
July 2018
October 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed our stay. A fabulous apartment with high quality fittings and furnishings, and an amazing view
July 2023
Everything was perfect - even the weather!
May 2023
Beautiful property with stunning views. We loved it. Shame we had rather poor weather!
November 2022
Really excellent stay. Amazing standard of housekeeping. We loved it and have already booked for next year.
September 2022
Loved our stay, very comfortable, great location.
September 2022
Yes
July 2022
Wonderful property, well equipped,clean, excellent location, with fabulous views from the balcony.
July 2022
A very spacious apartment which was extremely well equipped and spotlessly clean. Lovely welcoming touch of fresh flowers, wine etc. Two glorious balconies with stunning views over the beach and sea which are now sadly missed!
May 2022
Very mush so. We liked the arrival touches including fresh flowers and a a very good bottle of white wine. Would not hestiate to book again.
April 2022
We really did enjoy the stay. The flat was very well equipped, the best we’ve stayed in in fact. The location was excellent, the welcome basket was a lovely touch, and it was somewhere we would definitely return to.
April 2022
Thanks to Ann for her warm welcome. Very much enjoyed our stay.
July 2021
Yes- great property,great holiday
June 2021
The apartment is spacious and beautifully appointed. Wonderful views from both balconies. So many lovely touches - milk, coffee, tea, biscuits and wine in welcome pack, fresh flowers, room infusers. One of the nicest holiday homes we have stayed in.
June 2021
We had a wonderful stay at 12 Bolt Head. The apartment was beautiful with fabulous views, very clean and very well equipped. We were so grateful to have the balcony off the bedroom during our stay as it was sheltered from the sea breezes and provided a lovely spot in the sun after a day kayaking or walking.
September 2020
The housekeeper, Ann, was very helpful in advice before we arrived
August 2020
We had a wonderful holiday and the apartment was perfect for our needs. We loved sitting on the balcony in the evening.
November 2019
An amazing well proportioned apartment with exceptional views. Everything has been thought of, hence we had a fantastic time. Thank you.
October 2019
Lovely welcome by Ann - we arrived a bit early. Does a sterling job at change over. Thank you.
October 2019
Wonderful apartment. Fantastic sea views. Highly recommend.
August 2019
It was a stunning location.
August 2019
Many thanks for the basket of goodies & wine. Much appreciated.
October 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed our stay. A fabulous apartment with high quality fittings and furnishings, and an amazing view
July 2023
Everything was perfect - even the weather!
May 2023
Beautiful property with stunning views. We loved it. Shame we had rather poor weather!
November 2022
Really excellent stay. Amazing standard of housekeeping. We loved it and have already booked for next year.
September 2022
Loved our stay, very comfortable, great location.
September 2022
Yes
July 2022
Wonderful property, well equipped,clean, excellent location, with fabulous views from the balcony.
July 2022
A very spacious apartment which was extremely well equipped and spotlessly clean. Lovely welcoming touch of fresh flowers, wine etc. Two glorious balconies with stunning views over the beach and sea which are now sadly missed!
May 2022
Very mush so. We liked the arrival touches including fresh flowers and a a very good bottle of white wine. Would not hestiate to book again.
April 2022
We really did enjoy the stay. The flat was very well equipped, the best we’ve stayed in in fact. The location was excellent, the welcome basket was a lovely touch, and it was somewhere we would definitely return to.
April 2022
Thanks to Ann for her warm welcome. Very much enjoyed our stay.
July 2021
Yes- great property,great holiday
June 2021
The apartment is spacious and beautifully appointed. Wonderful views from both balconies. So many lovely touches - milk, coffee, tea, biscuits and wine in welcome pack, fresh flowers, room infusers. One of the nicest holiday homes we have stayed in.
June 2021
We had a wonderful stay at 12 Bolt Head. The apartment was beautiful with fabulous views, very clean and very well equipped. We were so grateful to have the balcony off the bedroom during our stay as it was sheltered from the sea breezes and provided a lovely spot in the sun after a day kayaking or walking.
September 2020
The housekeeper, Ann, was very helpful in advice before we arrived
August 2020
We had a wonderful holiday and the apartment was perfect for our needs. We loved sitting on the balcony in the evening.
November 2019
An amazing well proportioned apartment with exceptional views. Everything has been thought of, hence we had a fantastic time. Thank you.
October 2019
Lovely welcome by Ann - we arrived a bit early. Does a sterling job at change over. Thank you.
October 2019
Wonderful apartment. Fantastic sea views. Highly recommend.
August 2019
It was a stunning location.
August 2019
Many thanks for the basket of goodies & wine. Much appreciated.
Beachside Restaurant
(Less than a mile)
(7)
Enjoy the sea views from this bright and airy restaurant within the South Sands Hotel. Seafood is the speciality here, with the dishes created to suit the seasons as well as the day’s catch. A fine selection of high quality spirits, cocktails and wines are also available.
Beachside Restaurant South Sands Hotel, Bolt Head, Salcombe TQ8 8LL (T: 01548 845900)
First class. Comfortable bar with an excellent and good service.
April 2024
Lovely airy restaurant with sublime views out to sea, great food and friendly, unpretentious service. We had local mussels and a delicious Provence rose in the warm sunshine - what could be better!
January 2023
We enjoyed a really delicious lunch at the South Sands’ hotel Beachside restaurant. Our table overlooked the beach with beautiful views across the estuary. We had a selection of starters and mains, all choosing fish or seafood. Particularly recommend the mackerel pate, crab linguini and fish of the day – seabass. Service was great; friendly, attentive and knowledgeable, recommending a great wine from the wine list and a mocktail for our designate driver.
January 2023
We had three visits to the South Sands and each time were very pleased with the service, atmosphere and standard. The food is exceptional, fairly expensive but well priced because it is delicious and the staff are so friendly and attentive yet professional. The head waiter remembered us from the previous night and gave us the same table even though we booked over the telephone - he must have remembered our name! Will most definitely dine there again and maybe even stay - the accommodation looked good too.
August 2019
Excellent seafood! Very accommodating staff. The location overlooking the beach is great - ask for a table in the window. Quite pricey but worth it for a treat.
August 2019
Friendly, comfortable and great service every time i ve been (about 8 times)
November 2018
Only went here for drinks but it was a beautiful hotel.we sat outside overlooking the beach ,what a spot! Staff were very friendly and efficient.
June 2017
The Winking Prawn
(Less than a mile)
(42)
A quirky beach- shack style café with plenty of inside and outside seating, and a menu brimming with quality local seafood and other tempting options. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as popular daily barbeques in high season. Ice creams, coffees, wines, beers and snacks available throughout the day.
The Winking Prawn North Sands, Salcombe TQ8 8LD (T: 01548 842326)
Very enjoyable lunch, food delicious and service was great.
September 2023
Loved this! Sat outside, 7 of us including a baby for whom they provided a highchair. Between us we ordered popcorn shrimps, crab baguettes, crab and prawn salad, scallop salad, winking prawn fries and it was all delicious. Slight annoyance was ordering via an app which took ages and my daughter had to go in and ask to change something and it wasn’t possible. Didn’t spoil our enjoyment though.
July 2023
We love the winking prawn! Cool atmosphere, amazing food can’t beat the seafood platter!
July 2023
Worth a visit, but they should drop the app and go back to a personal service.
July 2023
A great place to eat at any time of the day .Families very welcome a great menu and so handy to pop across to the beach . Staff very helpful and friendly.
July 2023
Love the Winking Prawn. We visited May 2023, shared the fruit de mer, the moment we saw it was a wow moment, looked incredible and tasted great.
May 2023
Love this beach bar never disappointed great food
May 2023
Before making the amazing walk from North Sands to Salcome which is not to be missed, have a bite to eat at The Winking Prawn. Nice staff and food good.
April 2023
Had an excellent meal served by pleasant staff with the added attraction of North Sands
March 2023
Always enjoy the food at the Winking Prawn, we love the location and the fact their dog friendly is a real bonus.
October 2022
Excellent cafe with varied menu and delicious food, all served by helpful and friendly staff
July 2022
Went here several years ago and was a great experience so we decided to call in again on this holiday. They urge you to use an app on your phone to place your order. Its a TAKEAWAY APP ???? REAlly!!!! I'm tech savvy but what a pain it was, then asked for loads of details and I couldn't use Apple pay. Gave up and asked for someone to take our order. £31 for two sandwiches and two coffees. Definitely not value for money. I picked the stake sandwich. Two slices of bread, a bit of chewy steak and several pieces of lettuce. The blue cheese sauce was nice but hey cant go wrong with that. Wouldn't waste your money. Just overpriced for what you get
July 2022
Really lovely during the day. Friendly, good food although a bit expensive. Very disappointed that only bbq in the evening. We would normally eat here a few evenings. There’s no where else in easy walking distance of north sands. Also it was closed by 8 in the evening. Definitely worth a visit for lunch or coffee.
July 2022
Great fun to sit and relax by the sea, people watch and eat fantastic prawns & seafood. Ordering app a bit problematic as some of us didn't have a signal and therefore couldn't connect with bank to pay.
June 2022
Had lunch here twice and it was great - food lovely, nice atmosphere, helpful staff but awful ordering system didn’t help having a poor phone signal!!!!
May 2022
Beautiful location but quite pricy and make sure they have your order correct we ordered a glass of Chilean Sauvignon but received New Zealand which we didn’t realise until bill arrived and cost considerably more. Service was very friendly though so didn’t complain
May 2022
Fantastic lunch at the Winking Prawn. We ate there a few times whilst at the beach. Great coffee too and efficient service
May 2022
Great location but service quite slow. They are so busy you don't get the impression they're that bothered with you!
May 2022
Great little find - lovely food, best hot chocolate and lovely service
April 2022
Fab! Delicious food, lovely surroundings, pleasant staff and cakes to die for!
April 2022
stopped here for coffee and must admit this is a nice money making restauarant
October 2021
Used to visit here often but closed this time ( early October ) even though there were plenty of visitors about.
October 2021
Great location and good food
September 2021
We had lunch twice here during our 7 day holiday in salcombe. We couldn’t fault it, staff very friendly and food was good. Also I liked how they always thoroughly cleaned down the tables after people left.
September 2021
Nice place, expensive but plenty of room and staff. Staff expected everyone to order via the app - most annoying.
August 2021
We couldn’t book only queue for a table. Using their booking app to order is cumbersome but help is at hand if needed. However they have put a system in place that seems to work and we didn’t have to queue for long the 3 times we ate there. The food is limited to barbecued food and presentation to match. Despite this the food was very good and so was the service. We were lucky enough to have a week of good weather and with plenty of tables outside the system worked but I can see this being a problem in cold and wet days because there are limited tables inside.
June 2021
Excellent food, friendly and helpful staff. Good value for money. Very Covid safe. Dog friendly
May 2021
Wow, what a place! Everywhere around Salcombe is excellent but if you visit just 1 place, whether for breakfast, lunch or dinner, make it this place! Wonderful food, first class service, quirky decor, great atmosphere and a location to die for - right on North Sands Beach
November 2020
Always a must. Good quality beach cafe.
November 2020
Great place to eat, walking distance (very steep uphill on way home - fortify yourself). Good seafood but not cheap. Lovely to sit outside - not sure how good if the weather not good!
September 2020
Biggest, best value for money crab sandwich around! Great for a sandwich lunch or a treat scallop salad. Super family friendly.
February 2020
OK but overpriced.
October 2019
Lovely location , excellent food choice . Unfortunately the staff let the winking prawn down . Atmosphere behind the serving counter and some members of staff abrupt . Waitress/ waiters could do with being a little happier in their role . We did think maybe a bad day but we visited again and experienced the same situation . Such a shame as when we came 10 years ago and 17 years ago wonderful experience all round .
September 2019
Excellent - we had two lunches and one evening meal here. Thoroughly recommend.
July 2019
Always a must when visiting Salcombe. Wonderful seafood restaurant almost on the beach. Don’t miss it!
June 2018
We visited the Winking Prawn for breakfast on the last day of our holiday, after hearing from numerous friends that we mustn't leave Salcombe without having sampled their legendary breakfast! We were not disappointed. It's perfect for families, as rather than having to choose from a menu and then ask for substitutions for things you don't like, you just choose how you like your eggs, and then help yourself to as much as you want of bacon, sausages, beans, toast, fried potatoes, mushrooms, tomatoes and black pudding. It's all great quality and regularly topped up, so we left happy and set up for the day ahead! The service is helpful and friendly and the beachside location is gorgeous, I would love to go back for lunch and dinner next time we're in South Devon. Highly recommended!
May 2018
Great place. Very dog friendly. Good food.
September 2017
Great food. Excellent location. Tiny car park, though, and a bit on the prices side!
August 2017
Great place to look at but it is overpriced. You can't see the sea from there due to the sea wall but it is there so handy if you've been on the beach.
July 2017
We ate here 3 times in all and were made really welcome. A great place if you have dogs who can have a swim on North Sands Beach right opposite! Very fresh and tasty sea-food and one night we enjoyed the BBQ which was great value for money, all swilled down with a bottle or three of their lovely house rose wine. A place to sit and watch the world go by, and great for an evening/afternoon out with friends and/or dogs.
June 2017
Grossly overpriced.
June 2017
Can't believe that this is the first review of this ever popular food outlet. Perfect location on the beach at north sands, plenty to entertain the kids and food is good, decent grub. A must visit if you're in the area.
May 2017
Crabby Cuisine
(Less than a mile)
(1)
Delicious Salcombe crab delivered to your door with a choice of dips to choose from. No trip to Salcombe is complete without sampling it's famous local crab and Crabby Cuisine takes out all the hassle by delivering it fresh,dressed and delicious to your holiday property. The perfect supper after a day lazing on the beach.
Click here for further details or call Lizzie on 07538 288248
Great food and friendly staff! I would definitely recommend!
October 2023
The Jetty Restaurant
(Less than a mile)
(10)
A sleek and stylish restaurant within the Salcombe Harbour Hotel serving inventive, and beautifully presented, local and seasonal dishes. Muted tones, wonderful views and attentive staff make for a memorable meal.
The Jetty Restaurant Salcombe Harbour Hotel, Cliff Road, Salcombe TQ8 8JH (T: 01548 844444)
We had a great meal here. I have a few dietary requirements and they were more than happy to help.
May 2022
Disappointing meal at Jetty. Overpriced and food not great.
April 2022
By a country mile, the very best place to eat in Salcombe!
September 2021
Went to celebrate our wedding anniversary, we got first class service and the food was great.
September 2021
Nice ambience, attentive staff and good food.
September 2021
Wonderful views and lovely meal
June 2021
Lovely setting and friendly and efficient service but the menu was limited for a hotel, maybe due to current circumstances, which was a tad disappointing.
September 2020
Quite pricey for very average food and service. Great views of the estuary though.
August 2019
Ive been here a number of times over the last few years - its always been fabulous
November 2018
Rude service and overly long wait for drinks. The pubs in town were much friendlier and welcoming
May 2018
Sailor V
(2 miles)
(7)
A great place to stop for breakfast of lunch as well as coffees, teas, cakes and other treats in the centre of town.
Sailor V 36 Fore Street, Salcombe TQ8 8JE (T: 01548 843555)
Great food and friendly service when we visited for breakfast, lovely fresh food and the best fresh pear juice ever...
August 2022
Very friendly
July 2022
Excellent breakfast. Full English of course!
October 2021
Great place for breakfast or lunch. Food freshly cooked and staff very friendly.
September 2021
Always friendly service here. Good coffee. Great menu. Just wish they did more than scramble their eggs.
February 2020
Reasonable food at reasonable (for Salcombe) prices, served reasonably efficiently by staff with a reasonable command of English. It was a shame that they messed up our order, but it was reasonably quickly rectified, with courtesy. Reasonable.
April 2017
Great coffee and cakes
December 2016
Overbecks National Trust
(Less than a mile)
(22)
Once owned by inventor and scientist Otto Overbeck, this National Trust property and its gardens are perched high on the cliffs overlooking Salcombe with glorious views of the coast and estuary below. The house and gardens are both full of surprises from seasonal exhibitions and displays to permanent collections of historic artefacts, and of course the beautiful subtropical gardens to roam around in. They have a delightful café which serves a wonderful afternoon tea in the summer months, and they also host a number of events for children through the peak season, so it’s worth keeping an eye on the website for those too!
Beautiful garden with stunning views
September 2023
Definitely worth the climb up the hill. A place you can visit numerous times.
July 2023
Been to Overbecks for many, many years. Much looking forward to it reopening properly after refurbishment, paid very brief visit in 2023 and indeed since the work began. Gave substantial donation towards mending of the steps some time ago, would like to have proper refreshments again looking at them1
June 2023
Stunning well kept gardens. Nt Volunteers were so helpful allowing us to bring the car up to the entrance to save my 95 year old mother walking up the steep hill. Beautiful views and wonderful plants.
May 2023
Fabulous gardens with great views, and close to the South West coastal path for further walks and views. Parking is very limited, we took a ferry from Salcombe to South Sands beach and walked from there. Perfect.
August 2022
The gardens are well worth a visit, with lots of exotic plants and great views. We walked from Bolt Head apartments,which is only a short distance but very steep. Very limited parking at Overbecks, suggest walk there or take ferry from Salcombe to south Sands.
July 2022
Really lovely relaxing garden with gorgeous views. Steep and on different levels but a great afternoon out, especially the walk there too, past North and South Sands, and you can get the South Sands ferry back to Salcombe.
June 2022
Visited here many times over the years. Garden magnificent as usual but very disappointed to find the shop, cafe and museum closed ( early October 2021 ). Seems that there is some uncertainty if they will ever reopen.
October 2021
Lovely garden viewed on a lovely day. Impressed with the colour at the end of September. Well worth a visit
October 2021
Brilliant garden - nice little cafe too. Friendly staff and good information. Downside was having to pre book.
August 2021
The house was not open because of Covid 19. The gardens were wonderful with plenty of interesting plants & remarkable views.
October 2020
The most stunning gardens with the best views ever.
September 2020
Love it here! Always something for the family to do and the kids love roaming the paths, playing hide and seek or hunting for things on a trail. Less going on inside, feels like they've removed much of the history of the house, especially upstairs - open more rooms/tell more of the story! Cream tea is a must!
February 2020
Lovely subtropical gardens.Beautiful sea views. Lovely house and tearoom. Narrow windy steep roads to reachthe property only downfall .
October 2019
lovely day out but why doesn't the information tell you how narrow and windy the access roads are?
August 2019
We have visited Overbecks many times, but this year for the first time we visited in Spring, the garden was beautiful with so many spring flowers and amazing magnolias. The views as always are fantastic , a lovely way to spend a few hours.
April 2019
Lovely exotic garden with fabulous estuary views. Interesting museum. Excellent café.
July 2018
Stunning gardens and really interesting selection of plants. Amazing views and extremely peaceful. Very approachable staff and an enjoyable tour from a knowledgeable gardener. We also enjoyed a cream tea on the grass overlooking Salcombe. Heaven!!
July 2018
Interesting house, with Good Cafe. Best feature is the sub tropical garden with fantastic views over the Salcombe Estuary.
June 2018
We make sure we visit Overbecks every time we come to South Devon. It's a such a beautiful and peaceful spot with the most amazing location. The front lawn is the perfect place to sit and have a cream tea and there is plenty to keep the children interested too.
February 2018
Stunning!
June 2017
Such a beautiful spot. Amazing views of Salcombe and out to sea. The house is quite interesting and but we loved the gardens best. We had a great tour with Sam and then enjoyed a cream tea on the lawn!
December 2016
Salcombe Sea Kayak
(Less than a mile)
(4)
Based at sunny South Sands in Salcombe, Salcombe Sea Kayak is the adventure paddle company linked to Bo’s Beach Café, so you know that in addition to an unforgettable seaside experience you can get a good cup of tea and a piece of cake afterwards to warm up. Offering kayak tours, white water sea adventure tours, full day tours and all the equipment to go with it, the experienced team will guide you along the South Hams coastline that boasts 68 beaches including secluded bays, isolated coves and caves and gullies to explore. Bring your sense of adventure and you’re ready to go.
Click here for further details
We had an absolute blast on the kayaks - great fun!
July 2023
Fabulous way to explore the coastline, and the team are extremely happy and helpful!
July 2022
We had a great morning kayaking. Highly recommend a trip out with Ben and his team.
May 2019
Very friendly staff with excellent knowledge and very safety conscious. Wet suits available if required at no extra charge. Staff happy to offer a quick tutorial if needed and suggestions of where to paddle.
July 2017
North Sands Watersports
(Less than a mile)
(2)
Whether you want to rent from their base in Salcombe or buy a paddle board or inflatable kayak to use on your holiday, North Sands Watersports offer high quality equipment and excellent customer service to enable you to safely enjoy time on the water.
Click here for further details
Easy walk from the property with seats right next to the beach so no sandy feet if you don't want them. Good toilets and the cafe is very well stocked with nice staff.
July 2022
Really good equipment and helpful staff
July 2021
Hassle Free Hiking
(Less than a mile)
(1)
For those wanting to walk a stretch of the South West Coast Path, or explore the river valleys of southern Dartmoor, Hassle Free Hiking can help plan your itinerary, provide first-hand tips and walking notes, and drop you and your bags off to your start point, then pick you up at your destination to bring you back to your holiday cottage. A really useful service for non-circular walks, coupled with invaluable local knowledge.
Click here for further details
Great for walking and the views are fantastic.
July 2023
Sea n Shore
(Less than a mile)
(3)
A super friendly water sports company offering RYA courses, events and family friendly days out on the water around Salcombe. A popular choice is the thrilling Fast Rib Ride, a 75 minute 007 style high speed rib ride taking in the magnificent South Devon coastline and its wildlife. Or groups can try the exciting half day treasure hunts where teams are challenged to carry out fun tasks culminating in a raft race. Other options include more relaxing rib rides up the Salcombe estuary taking in lunch and drinks, coasteering trips, wakeboarding, water skiing and banana boat rides.
Sea n Shore are very flexible and can tailor courses and activities to your requirements. They can also provide lunch time hampers, or decadent cream teas with champagne to enjoy on your day out.
Sea n Shore (T: 01548 842276 M: 07713 745609)
Hired a rib for the day which was perfect for cruising around the coast and up to Kingsbridge
September 2021
We had a brilliant time on the fast rib with Sea and Shore. Great fun and an amazing way to see the coastline.
February 2017
Had a brilliant ride on the RIB. Saw seals out near Start Point and the remains of the lost village of Hallsands. Good information and great fun on the boat. Suitable for kids and adults
January 2017
South Sands, Salcombe
(Less than a mile)
(6)
Bit too far to cycle from centre of Salcombe for a swim, but do visit regularly. Used to stay at Bolt Head when it was an hotel, so remember it fondly.
June 2023
The new Harbour hotel at South Sands has wonderful views over the estuary and is worth stopping there for a quick lunch before continuing up to the overbecks
April 2023
North Sands better for beach but South Sands cafe and tractor/ferry are great.
June 2022
Rude staff on ferry - expecting people to wear mask on an outdoor boat trip ! Made to feel like we were an inconvenience- very poor.
August 2021
Great - kids loved the big building Site
August 2020
A beautiful sandy beach that is superb for children as you have to go out quite a way before the water gets deep. Water sports available. Access is via very narrow lanes so be prepared to reverse and parking is very limited.
July 2017
North Sands, Salcombe
(Less than a mile)
(17)
The first beach as you walk along the Cliff Road out of Salcombe, North Sands sits in a valley and is a sandy horseshoe shaped beach that’s expansive at low tide. Thanks to its shape and location, it’s extremely popular in the summer because there’s plenty of space to set up camp for the day with buckets, spades and fishing nets in tow for avid marine biologists and sand castle connoisseurs. The beach has a fresh water stream running through it from the top of the valley, which, aside from providing hours of entertainment for accompanying dogs and a marvellous place to wash the sand off your feet, also means that the beach is largely wet sand, so don’t forget to take something to sit on if you’re heading there for the day. Popular with swimmers, despite the chilly water, North Sands provides a wonderful view out of the mouth of the Salcombe estuary and into the deep blue yonder so, for keen photographers, it’s ideal. If the weather is right then it’s a favourite amongst body boarders or even surfers on choppier days, and it’s a great place to take the paddle boards and kayaks if you happen to have them. Dogs are allowed on the beach all year round, unlike many of the beaches in the area, there are toilets over the road and there’s a car park with charges from £1 throughout the year. The cherry on top of this beautiful location is The Winking Prawn café and restaurant that’s right next to the beach. Open all year round they serve everything from breakfast, lunch and dinner to coffee, tea and cake, and in the summer they provide a barbecue in the garden overlooking the sea. It is popular though so leave a little time to queue for that Salcombe Dairy honeycomb ice cream in the height of summer!
A wonderful sheltered bay, the sea is so clean and lovely to swim in. Disabled access and dog friendly with the lovely cafe close by.
October 2023
Very nice beach. Very clean.
July 2023
Swim here daily when in Salcombe.
June 2023
A great dog friendly beach. Check the tide times, go at low tide, makes a fabulous beach to look for shells, relax in the sun, and walk in the stuff with your dog.
May 2023
Excellent beach for dogs
May 2023
Nice beach it's great dog friendly beach
May 2023
What a beautiful place to walk to along Coast Road from Salcombe town. The view through the trees to the amazing colour of the water is breathtaking and North Sands is spectacular. We could have sat just people watching all day. The winking prawn is a lovely place for a drink or bite to eat.
July 2022
Lovely beach which is a quick walk down from the property, food and toilets but neither used.
July 2022
Brilliant beach for all the family within walking distance of cottage. Car park and toilets nearby.
May 2022
Fantastic clean beach. Dog friendly
September 2021
Excellent clean and safe dog friendly beach. Very friendly and helpful locals.
May 2021
Lovely clean family friendly beach
July 2020
Lovely beach , easily accessible , particularly with elderly members in the party .
September 2019
North Sands is a wonderful beach great for families, the winking prawn restaurant is great for anything from snacks to a full meal stunning views out to sea
October 2018
Very nice beach for dog lovers and good café.
July 2018
Gorgeous, just stunning! Brilliant beach, fabulous cafe (Winking Prawn) and good priced car park! Love, love, love it!!
August 2017
Superb safe and stunningly picturesque
June 2017
Mill Bay
(2 miles)
(29)
Lovely little beach with with views across the bay to Salcombe
October 2023
Stunning! Great car park, perfect for dogs, at low tide you can walk along the beach to east portlemouth and Venus cafe.
September 2023
Lovely quiet beach, clean beach & sea
July 2023
Lovely place to spend some time.
July 2023
Lovely clean beach with great views
May 2023
Lovely clean beach, easily accessible from our holiday cottage.
July 2022
Bit of a walk but well worth it - spacious beach, fabulous views and shallow waters.
June 2022
Brilliant beach 3 miles from the cottage
June 2022
Gorgeous little Bay close to where we were staying our dog. Loved fetching his ball in and out the water. Very pretty spot.
April 2022
Lovely beach and you can walk to Gara rock from here and along beach to the ferry crossing to salcombe
March 2022
Great beach. Bumpy access road as sand has blown across it. Slightly marred by 1-2 selfish dog owners who have left their calling cards
November 2021
We were lucky enough to spend 3 days on this beautiful beach. Fabulous place ??
September 2021
Fantastic beach one of the best in the area. Have to get to car park (National Trust) very early if you don't want to carry all your stuff to the beach.
September 2021
We attempted to drive to Mill Bay car park- not a good idea in August! No parking spaces, no turning points. We tried another day, parking at Gara Rock and asking down the bridle path. We have a disabled granddaughter, the walk down was manageable but the return walk was much more difficult. Beautiful beach and worth the walk.
September 2021
Lovely, clean, sandy beach in wonderful location with beautiful views and easy access from Salcombe via the East Portlemouth ferry.
August 2021
Lovely beach, clear water
July 2021
Lovely beach for children to play on.
June 2021
Favourite beach going back to my childhood. The road to it was closed due to a land slip in January. Talked to the workmen who said it was due to reopen November 2020.
October 2020
Lovely beach but this year overrun with people arriving by motor boat- so it felt a little worrying for kids to swim out among them,(and frankly it spoilt the view) and engine noise/fumes at the end of the day as everyone left!
September 2020
Wonderful
September 2019
I endorse all of the other favourable comments and emphasise the urgent need to make the lavatories hygienic. In fact all of the public conveniences are anything but convenient.
September 2019
Lovely beach, handy to have little food caravan selling crepes, drinks and ice cream, good quality too. The toilets were disgusting though and should have been cleaned more regularly, also waste bins overflowing.
August 2019
Great place for a day on the beach. Safe and dog friendly
August 2019
Lovely large sandy beach, perfect for young children who want to play in the strem and build dams, or play in the sea without large waves!
July 2019
Great beach
October 2018
A fabulous beach. Especially great fun at low tide for a water loving Labrador. We enjoyed our visits here. We also loved the passenger ferry from here to Salcombe. Beautiful beach.
October 2018
Beautiful beach lovely and clean. Small car park free to N.T. members. Highly recommended. Drawback no immediate café available. Venus café nearest but a trek if not mobile.
September 2018
Lovely beach well worth a visit. Dog friendly as well. Well worth the £7-50 national trust car parking fee.
July 2018
amazing beach, dog friendly, only downside is the toilets near the National Trust hut are very poor
July 2018
Sunny Cove
(2 miles)
(7)
Accessed either by boat, via a 10-minute walk through the woods from parking at Mill Bay, or a stroll from the Salcombe to East Portlemouth Ferry, Sunny Cove is a sandy beach which, as you might expect, catches the sun throughout the day, weather pending. It’s on the East Portlemouth side of the Salcombe Estuary opposite North Sands beach and Fort Charles, the ruined fortification that was originally constructed during the reign of Henry VIII to defend the Kingsbridge Estuary against French and Spanish Pirates. It’s a relatively gentle spot for swimming and ideal for picnics, lazy summer afternoons, and reaching on kayaks and paddle boards from other nearby beaches as well as being the perfect spot for building sandcastles. That said, the tide can come in quite quickly so make sure you don’t get caught out and be careful of the swell when bringing boats into the beach. Head there for the day in the summer or as a stop off en route to the café at Gara Rock or a longer walk along the coast path towards Prawle Point. Dogs are welcome all year round but keep in mind that there aren’t any facilities in the immediate vicinity (it would be a 10-15-minute walk along wooded footpaths) so take your sandwiches with you!
Gorgeous, quiet and very clean beach.
June 2023
Stunning bay ,Quiet and secluded
October 2021
Lovely little beach worth the walk or paddle!
July 2021
We didn’t know about this. Whilst appreciating the need to keep things to a minimum, local information like this could have been uploaded digitally. We made 2 attempts to locate a beach without success.
October 2020
The beach and the views were superb
September 2019
A nice sandy beach, crowded on a sunny day. but access quite tricky - a long walk for children if no room in the NT car park, and then a long walk back afterwards.
August 2019
Best reached by direct boat access but easy enough walk from ferry or mill bay car park. Our favourite beach.
August 2018
Gara Rock Beach
(2 miles)
(12)
A bit tricky getting down to the beach but worth it.
September 2023
Super dog friendly beach and the children had a lovely time too, it was pretty busy but it was a bank holiday!
June 2022
VERY PEACEFULL AND NO CROWDS
September 2021
Superb location, excellent service. We were unable to book beforehand but were fortunate to be able to secure a table.
September 2021
Beautiful sandy and pebbly cove... we spent 2 gorgeous days there with our dog! Be prepared for steep climb back to Gara Rock restaurant but worth it!
July 2021
After driving an hour through Devon drizzle we were not impressed to be turned away because we weren't guests. "or you can sit outside and have coffee from the Garavan". Lesson learned: Don't go unless you're booked.
October 2020
We had a beautiful meal with stunning views at Gara Rock. The staff were friendly and attentive and the food was divine. We also had spa treatments for the group, who left feeling relaxed and radiant.
September 2020
Lovely secluded beach, dog friendly and easy to get to.
July 2020
Go there for the coastal walk. Fantastic. Stop at the hotel for a coffee, the views are stunning
September 2019
A lovely beach (although quite "weedy"), almost deserted the morning we were there, and well worth the tricky path down and the steep climb back
August 2019
My favourite beach in the country, nothing run of the mill here, lovely views
July 2019
Lovely beach. We arrived early after a steep walk down the cliff path. Had the beach initially to ourselves! Starts to get busier as the day goes on.
July 2018
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