THIS is Exmouth’s tiny alternative beach

If you fancy an alternative to Exmouth Beach, head to the gorgeous Shelley Beach, which sits just along the estuary. 

This is a chilled out, scenic spot – although there are some important things to know before visiting. 

Let’s get  into them!

About Shelley Beach

Shelley Beach sits on the western side of Exmouth, at the mouth of the River Exe. 

Sheltered by the marina’s sea walls, it’s a smaller, quieter alternative to the town’s main beach. 

Locally, it’s often called Pirate Cove, although no one knows exactly how the name began! Some believe it refers to Exmouth’s long history of piracy and smuggling – one of the most notorious names linked to the area is Captain William Kyd, an English pirate active in the 15th century.

Pirate Cove faces west across the estuary, with views towards the low-lying sand spit of Dawlish Warren and the Haldon Hills beyond. 

The beach is small and sheltered. It’s ideal for picnicking and watching the world go by.  

At low tide, the exposed sands stretch out to reveal moored boats resting on the mudflats. At high tide, the water comes close to the sea wall.

Swimming at Shelley Beach 

Shelley Beach is not suitable for swimming due to the strong currents of the estuary and the amount of boats in the area. 

The safe swimming area of Exmouth is much further  down the beach, where the RNLI station is located. 

Shelley Beach access

Access is easy. From Exmouth Marina, it is a level two-minute walk. 

Pay and display parking is available at the end of Exmouth Beach – although on a sunny day, you might need to drive around a little to find a space! 

The beach is dog-friendly year-round. 

Nearby toilets

There aren’t any toilets right by Shelley Beach, the nearest are in Manor Gardens (Google Maps location here) a 14 minute walk away. 

There are also some near Budgens on Exmouth seafront, a 20 minute walk away (Google Maps location here).

Barbecuing at Pirate Cove

Pirate Cove is one of the few beaches in Exmouth where disposable and portable BBQs are permitted. It has become a popular spot for evening barbecues, especially as the sun sets directly over the estuary in summer months! 

Make sure you use BBQs responsibly – only cook once the coals have turned grey with no open flames and avoid placing hot BBQs directly on the sand where they can leave lasting marks.

After cooking, you must cool any disposable BBQs and remove them from the beach entirely – placing hot items in plastic bins is prohibited due to the fire risk. Open fires are not allowed at any time. 

If you fancy a seafood BBQ, Fish on the Quay is  very close to Shelley Beach  and is a lovely independent fish shop!

Of course, it goes without saying that all rubbish should be taken with you.

What you’ll see and do at Shelley Beach

The area is popular with photographers thanks to the ever-changing estuary views, with particularly good light at sunrise and sunset. 

Birdwatchers can spot wading species like oystercatchers, redshank, and little egrets on the mudflats. In winter, flocks of Brent geese arrive from the Arctic to overwinter along the Exe.

At low tide, the sandy expanse opens up for beachcombing.

And it’s a magical place for sunset, as the  sun descends right over the estuary.

Or you could combine a visit to Shelley Beach with a walk along Exmouth’s seafront, stretching east towards Orcombe Point, or inland into the town centre for cafés and shops. 

For more information, check out my beaches in Exmouth post or this list of things to do in Exmouth.