Salcombe

Tucked away on the stunning South Devon coast, Salcombe is a picturesque harbour town known for its sparkling turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and laid-back luxury. Located within the South Devon National Landscape, Salcombe has long been a favourite for sailors, beach lovers, and those seeking an escape where the pace is slower and the views are nothing short of spectacular. With its pastel-painted houses cascading down to the water’s edge and its bustling harbour filled with yachts and fishing boats, Salcombe feels like a postcard come to life.

Seaside Charm with a Nautical Twist

Salcombe’s identity is deeply tied to the sea. Once a thriving shipbuilding centre and fishing port, it has evolved into a stylish coastal getaway that blends traditional maritime character with modern-day elegance. Whether you're watching boats drift in and out of the harbour, browsing independent boutiques, or enjoying a fresh crab sandwich with a view, the town radiates a calm, nautical charm that's hard to resist. For sailing enthusiasts, Salcombe offers some of the best conditions in the UK, with calm estuary waters and plenty of regattas and races throughout the summer months.

Things to Do in Salcombe

Despite its small size, Salcombe offers a rich variety of things to do for visitors of all ages. The Salcombe Maritime Museum gives a fascinating look into the town’s seafaring past, with exhibits on shipwrecks, smugglers, and wartime exploits. For those wanting to be active and get out on the water, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing lessons are readily available, or you can simply hop on a ferry and cruise around the estuary while soaking in the stunning coastal views.

Just a short walk or ferry ride from the town centre, you’ll find Overbeck’s Garden and Museum, a cliffside National Trust property surrounded by subtropical gardens. Its panoramic views over the estuary are as captivating as the quirky collection of curiosities inside the house. For a taste of adventure, the South West Coast Path runs through Salcombe, offering breathtaking cliff walks to nearby coves, hidden beaches, and dramatic headlands.

Food and Drink in Salcombe

Salcombe’s culinary scene reflects its coastal location, with seafood front and centre on many menus. Enjoy locally landed crab, scallops, and mussels at one of the town’s stylish harbourside restaurants, or tuck into a traditional fish and chips while watching the sunset over the estuary. The town is also home to the famous Salcombe Dairy, offering irresistible ice cream, and local gin, distilled locally and served at many of the town’s buzzing bars and pubs.

Cafés and bakeries line the narrow streets, perfect for a leisurely breakfast or cream tea. Whether you're dining in a rustic pub, a chic bistro, or enjoying a picnic on the beach, the emphasis is always on fresh, local, and seasonal produce.

Nature and the Great Outdoors

Surrounded by rolling hills, lush countryside, and dramatic coastline, Salcombe is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Whether you're hiking across National Trust headlands, birdwatching along the cliffs, or exploring the Kingsbridge Estuary, there’s no shortage of natural beauty to discover. The nearby countryside provides a contrast to the seaside, with winding country lanes, woodland trails, and panoramic views over fields that tumble into the sea.

Getting to Salcombe

Salcombe feels wonderfully tucked away, but it’s surprisingly accessible. The nearest train station is in Totnes, about a 45-minute drive away, with connections from London Paddington and Exeter. From there, scenic country roads lead you to this coastal haven. While Salcombe itself is best explored on foot, there are local buses and water taxis to help you navigate the estuary and nearby villages.

Summer at Mill Bay in Devon

The Best Beaches Near Salcombe 

If you’re coming to Devon for the beaches, Salcombe won’t disappoint. 

  • South Sands Beach – A family favourite with calm waters, a beachfront café, and water sports rentals. 

  • North Sands Beach – A laid-back vibe with shallow waters perfect for paddling and rockpooling. 

  • Mill Bay & Sunny Cove – Accessible by boat or a scenic walk, these hidden gems offer peace, quiet, and soft golden sand. 

  • East Portlemouth Beaches – Take the ferry across and explore a string of unspoilt beaches with amazing views back towards Salcombe.