North Sands Beach Salcombe: South Devon's Coastal Treasure

Located just a short walk from the vibrant town of Salcombe, North Sands Beach is a picturesque and family-friendly spot on the South Devon coast. Known for its golden sand, calm waters, and spectacular views across the Kingsbridge Estuary, North Sands Beach Salcombe is a must-visit for anyone exploring the area.

In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about visiting North Sands — from how to get there to what to do, where to eat, and when to visit.

Where Is North Sands Beach?

North Sands Beach is situated just one mile south of Salcombe, in the South Hams district of Devon, England. Nestled between green hills and the calm estuary waters, the beach offers a sheltered, scenic location perfect for relaxing and safe for children.

Quick Facts:

Location: Salcombe, South Devon, UK
Nearest town: Salcombe (20-minute walk)
Type: Sandy beach, tidal
Access: By foot, car, or local bus

Address for sat-nav: North Sands, Salcombe, Devon, TQ8 8LD

What Makes North Sands Beach Special?

North Sands is a tidal beach, meaning the sandy area is large and spacious at low tide, ideal for games and sunbathing. As the tide rises, the beach becomes smaller — so it’s best to check tide times before visiting.

Why Visitors Love It:

Soft golden sand perfect for beach games and sandcastles
Shallow waters ideal for paddling, swimming, and safe for children
Dog-friendly all year round — popular with pet owners
Close proximity to cliff walks and Salcombe town centre
Great views across to Fort Charles, a 17th-century ruin in the sea

North Sands is one of the few beaches in South Devon that allows dogs year-round, making it a favorite for dog-walkers.

Parking and Access

There is a small pay-and-display car park right next to the beach, but it fills up quickly on sunny days and school holidays. It’s recommended to arrive early or walk from Salcombe town.

Car park postcode: TQ8 8LD
Public toilets: Available near the car park
Wheelchair access: The beach has a gentle slope but no specific accessibility ramp

Things to Do at North Sands Beach

Beach Day Fun

Pack a picnic and enjoy a full day of:

Sunbathing on the sand
Paddling in the shallow sea
Exploring rock pools at low tide
Beach games with the family or pets

Walks and Hikes

There are fantastic coastal walks nearby:

North Sands to South Sands: A scenic walk via Snapes Point or along Cliff Road
Circular walk to Bolt Head and back for panoramic estuary views

Visit Fort Charles

At very low tide, you can walk out to the ruins of Fort Charles, a Civil War-era sea fort partially submerged by water.

Where to Eat Nearby

One of the best things about North Sands is its famous beachside restaurant:

The Winking Prawn

A relaxed, quirky café and restaurant located right behind the beach.

Known for fresh seafood, BBQs, and homemade cakes
Great outdoor seating and a dress-up box for kids
Serves breakfast, lunch, and cream teas
Dog-friendly with water bowls outside

Tip: Arrive early for lunch on warm days, as it gets busy fast.

Where to Stay Near North Sands

There are plenty of accommodations nearby, from self-catering cottages to boutique hotels:

South Sands Hotel – Luxury beachfront hotel just a short walk away
Harbour Hotel Salcombe – Offers estuary views and spa facilities
Local holiday lets – Plenty of pet-friendly cottages and beach houses with sea views

Booking early is essential in summer, especially during school holidays.

Best Time to Visit North Sands

Summer (June–August)

Warm weather and perfect swimming conditions
Great for family holidays and water activities
Can get crowded — arrive early

Spring & Autumn (April–May, Sept–Oct)

Quieter, with mild temperatures
Ideal for walkers, couples, and dog owners

Winter

Peaceful, dramatic coastal scenery
Great for bracing beach walks and pub lunches

Tip: Check tide times online before visiting to enjoy the beach at its biggest.

Conclusion

Whether you’re on a family holiday, romantic break, or a coastal walking trip, North Sands Beach in Salcombe delivers a perfect blend of beauty, convenience, and seaside charm. Its calm waters, sandy shores, and dog-friendly policy make it one of South Devon’s most beloved beaches.

Pack a picnic, bring your camera, and make your way to North Sands — a true gem on the Devon coast.