Being part of the glorious Jurassic Coast means there are plenty of opportunities to spend time breathing in the sea air and enjoying all the fun that comes with being at a seaside town while in Sidmouth.
Did you know though, that there is more than just the town beach to explore while here? Here are some of the nearby beaches you can enjoy during your stay.
As we’ve already mentioned it, of course, there is Sidmouth Town Beach, which has the Esplanade and a host of hotels and other amenities running beside it. With sand and shingle, the town beach is clean and accessible and has retained its Blue Flag for this year – so you can be sure of an award-winning beach experience.
Next to the town beach is Jacob’s Ladder Beach, so named because of the Victorian-style steps that lead down to the beach from Connaught Gardens. If you don’t fancy taking on the steps, this beach can also be reached by following a level path from the main beach.
Jacob’s Ladder is naturally sheltered from the wind by the cliffs and is a great place for rockpooling. It has a selection of cute, pastel beach huts and is a favourite among photographers for the dramatic views you can find from all angles.
Once you’ve visited these two spots, why not explore further by visiting Ladram Bay? This beautiful area is backed by some incredible red cliffs and just offshore you’ll be able to see two red stacks, also made of sandstone. This beach is also a mix of sand and pebbles and can be found between Sidmouth and Budleigh Salterton. Overlooking the beach, with its own private access, is a popular holiday park and with the South West Coast Path linking the bay with Sidmouth and Budleigh Salterton, you can easily walk between the three locations – if you’re up for the challenge that is! Alternatively, it is also reachable via bike or by car.
A little further along the same stretch of coast is Budleigh Salterton which is particularly famous for its unique pebbles. Like the beach in Sidmouth, Budleigh’s beach is popular with families because of its clean, calm water and is a spot favoured by local and visiting swimmers.
This beach also features some cute beach huts and is very picturesque – ideal for anyone wanting to add some snaps to their portfolio or show off their adventures on Instagram.
In the opposite direction from Sidmouth there is a remote single beach known as Weston Mouth which is often much quieter than the main town beach and Jacob’s Ladder. It is only accessible via a long walk down a track or by sea, so it isn’t the easiest spot to get to, but if you can make it, it will offer a peaceful alternative. Just be aware that because of its secluded nature, it is often frequented by naturists and doesn’t have any of the amenities or facilities that more recognisable beaches offer.
To experience a different era of the Jurassic Coast, make your way a little further along to Branscombe – this long shingle beach will take you all the way along to Beer Head and has parking nearby so is good for a day trip, especially if you want to enjoy some of the coastal walks and scenery.
Another option is Beer Beach – another shingle beach that is also protected from strong winds because of the cliffs. The beach is still used by local fishermen and you’ll often be able to spot boats parked at the water’s edge or see them bringing in that day’s catch. This beach is also part of the South West Coast Path and provides some lovely coastal walks around the Jurassic Coast.
Interested in visiting some of the local beaches? Make sure to book your Sidmouth accommodation for the summer to avoid missing out!