3 day South Devon itinerary: see the highlights!
From secret smugglers’ coves to historic harbour towns, this 3-day South Devon itinerary takes you through some of the county’s best.
You’ll begin in Dawlish where you can gaze at its bright red cliffs before riding steep railways, exploring prehistoric caves and soaking in panoramic headland views.
Along the way, discover colourful fishing harbours, WWII history, and wild coastal walks, before ending in the popular town of Salcombe!
You could spend a week (or even more!) exploring this part of the UK, but this South Devon itinerary aims to show you the highlights in three days – perfect for a long weekend.
Where is South Devon?
South Devon is a region in southwest England, covering the coastal and countryside areas of Devon’s southern half, from Teignbridge (Dawlish, Teignmoth and Shaldon), through the English Riviera (Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham) to the South Hams (Dartmouth, Salcombe and Totnes).
It stretches from Exeter and Dawlish in the east to Plymouth in the west – with a mix of seaside towns, rolling hills, and dramatic coastline.
It does not include Exmouth and any coastline further east – this is known as “East Devon”, despite being on Devon’s southern coast.
Day 1: Dawlish to Paignton
Let’s begin on the west side of the Exe Estuary and in the charming, often underrated, town of Dawlish!
Morning: Dawlish & Shaldon
With period architecture and a golden beach, Dawlish town is worth a stroll around. It might be too early for a cream tea (although, is it ever?) but I do highly recommend Gaye’s Creamery!
Dawlish is perhaps most famous for its scenic train. This isn’t a tourist train – just a standard GWR – so one of my top recommendations would be to take a train one or two stops to Dawlish Warren or Starcross, and then walk back!
Don’t miss Coryton Cove, a sheltered, sandy beach just beyond Dawlish’s famous railway line.
It’s smaller and quieter than Dawlish’s main beach, with striking red cliffs and beach huts.
If you’re visiting in the summertime, it’s perfect for a dip!
You’ll pass through Teignmouth as you start to drive west. By all means, stop here if you fancy, but if you’re short on time, I’d recommend heading straight to Shaldon (you can park here).
My top recommendation for here is Ness Beach.
Hidden behind cliffs, Ness Beach is accessible only via a historic smugglers’ tunnel.
This secluded bay is a great spot to stretch your legs!
Afternoon: Torbay
Then it’s time to head to the bay!
Torquay and Paignton don’t always have the best reputation in terms of England travel, but it has a vast amount of attractions, especially for families!
Probably my favourite thing to do in the area is the Babbacombe Cliff Railway. This funicular railway – which has been transporting visitors down the steep cliffs to Oddicombe Beach since 1926 – has incredible views over the English Riviera!
It’s a nostalgic railway ride and leads you down to the fantastic Oddicombe Beach!
Delve into Devon’s prehistoric past at Kent’s Cavern – one of Britain’s most important Palaeolithic sites.
This limestone cave system, home to Ice Age remains, offers an immersive guided tour through stalactites, stalagmites, and evidence of some of Europe’s earliest humans. In fact, it calls itself “Britain’s oldest home” because there has been evidence of people living here for more than 40,000 years.
I also recommend visiting the charming Antsey’s Cove, one of Torbay’s most scenic beaches.
You’ll arrive in Paignton by late afternoon. If time allows, take a walk along Paignton Pier or relax on the town’s sandy beach.
Stay in Mercure Hotel Paignton, a modern establishment located along the seafront. Rooms are deluxe, with luxury touches, and the windows look right out over the sea!
Day 2: Paignton to Dartmouth
Today, we’ll explore the western Torbay area by heading to Brixham and then venture into South Hams.
Morning: Brixham & Berry Head
Start your day in Brixham, a working fishing town with a colourful harbour and an authentic replica of the Golden Hind.
Brixham Harbour is the most important fishing port in England and Wales in terms of catch landed. So take some time to explore this – and perhaps, after visiting Berry Head, head back for some seafood!
Just above Brixham, Berry Head boasts panoramic views over Tor Bay. It’s home to Napoleonic-era forts (it was in a rather vulnerable position throughout the centuries and a working lighthouse perched on the cliffs.
If you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins or seabirds!
Afternoon: Dartmouth & Blackpool Sands
Drive to Dartmouth – one of the most beautiful towns in Devon!
Here, you can explore the historic waterfront, Royal Avenue Gardens and visit the historic Dartmouth Castle.
Maybe even take a short water taxi trip across the Dart to Kingswear!
Just south of Dartmouth, the privately owned Blackpool Sands consistently wins Blue Flag awards for its cleanliness and water quality.
It’s also widely known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, and you can find watersports rental and a sauna here!
Overnight: Dartmouth (choose from a riverside guesthouse or a boutique hotel in the town).
Day 3: Dartmouth to Salcombe
Today, let’s focus on the South Hams region!
Morning: Totnes & Slapton Sands
Start the day in the market town of Totnes.
Its independent shops, medieval history and alternative culture make it one of the most desirable towns in Devon! Take a tour around the ancient castle, go shopping or enjoy its indie cafe scene.
Drive along the coast to Slapton Sands, a vast shingle beach with a fascinating WWII history. This was the site of Exercise Tiger, a tragic D-Day training exercise.
Further along the coast, there’s the abandoned village of Hallsands, where remains of houses cling to the cliffs.
You can’t visit the village itself or even go to the viewing platform any more, but if you start walking towards Start Point on the South West Coast Path, you should be able to catch glimpses of Hallsands when you turn around.
Afternoon: Start Point & Salcombe
At Start Point is a rugged headland with a working lighthouse – it’s one of the South West’s quintessential headlands.
End your trip in Salcombe – one of the most scenic harbour towns in the South West.
It’s a popular town purely for its aesthetic, but you can also visit the Salcombe Maritime Museum and the Salcombe Distilling Co.
Wander along the estuary, visit the beaches or take a ferry across to East Portlemouth!
