Is this South Devon’s BEST beach?
One of the South Hams’ most legendary beaches, Blackpool Sands is a delight.
It lies between Dartmouth and Stoke Fleming and is framed by steep, forested hills that drop sharply towards the shoreline.
Here’s all you need to know about visiting Blackpool Sands!
About Blackpool Sands
Despite the name, the beach is made of fine shingle, not sand – which gives the water its striking clear appearance on calm days!
It’s also not named after Blackpool in the north – there’s a village called Blackpool close to Dartmouth!
The beach faces south, catching the sun for most of the day.
On still mornings, the sea can look almost glassy, attracting early swimmers and paddleboarders.
During summer, Blackpool Sands feels busier than some other South Devon beaches, but the wide stretch of shore and well-organised facilities mean it remains comfortable!
Is there a café at Blackpool Sands?
There’s a well-established café and restaurant right by the beach. The Venus Café offers a menu focused on local produce, with options for breakfast, lunch and light snacks.
The café operates most of the year- though hours are reduced outside the main season. Seating includes a terrace with direct views across the beach and bay. It’s glorious!
Can you swim at Blackpool Sands?
Swimming is one of the main reasons people visit Blackpool Sands.
The clear water and gradual slope of the beach make it suitable for confident swimmers – although the shore drops away faster than at sandy beaches!
Lifeguards are on duty during the main summer season (usually from July to early September) from 10am to 6pm. Flags fly when lifeguards are present.
Paddleboard and kayak hire is available from the beach during these months as well.
What facilities are available at Blackpool Sands?
Blackpool Sands has some of the best beach facilities in South Devon!
Alongside the Venus Café, you’ll find toilets, changing rooms, a beach shop and equipment hire.
There’s also a new beach sauna – you can book this here!
There is a charge for entry to the car park – this is in place throughout the year (apart from stays of less than an hour from November to March).
Deckchairs, kayaks and paddleboards can be hired when the weather is suitable. Barbecues are not permitted on the beach to protect the local environment.
Dogs are not allowed on the beach during the main season, (1st May to 30th September). Outside of these months, dogs are permitted, but owners are expected to keep them under control and clean up responsibly.
Responsible tourism at Blackpool Sands
Blackpool Sands is privately managed but open to the public, and its upkeep depends heavily on visitor care. Always take all litter away with you.
The beach’s natural environment includes sensitive coastal plants and marine life, so avoid trampling the upper banks and stay to designated paths and access points.
Noise levels should be kept low, particularly in the early morning or late evening when wildlife is more active.
Support the local café and businesses, which contribute to maintaining the beach and surrounding area.
And when swimming or paddleboarding, give space to any wildlife spotted in the bay, including occasional seals!
How to get to Blackpool Sands
Blackpool Sands is located just off the A379 between Stoke Fleming and Strete, about 3 miles southwest of Dartmouth.
If you are driving, follow signs to Blackpool Sands; there is a large car park directly by the beach, with charges applying in summer.
Here’s the Google Maps location.
Buses from Dartmouth towards Strete and Torcross pass nearby, with a stop within walking distance of the beach entrance. But public transport options are limited compared to towns further east along the South Devon coast.
The South West Coast Path also passes just above Blackpool Sands, making it easy to visit as part of a longer walk along this section of the coast!
Check out this post for more places to visit in Devon and here are all my Devon beach recommendations.
