Putsborough beach

This beach in Devon is our top choice. It's large, stunning, and a bit of a trek to reach! The cafe is fantastic, and the rocks on the beach add a special touch.

School is back in session, and so is the hot weather in Britain. Devon and Cornwall have some stunning beaches, and Putsborough is one of my favorites. It's generally less crowded than neighboring beaches like Croyde, Saunton, or Woolacombe, making it perfect for families. The beach has beautiful sand and plenty of rock pools to explore, filled with baby crabs, shrimps, and tiny fish. Parking usually costs £10 per visit, and there's a snack shop with typical beach prices, so it's best to come prepared, especially if you're on a tight budget. Putsborough Sands is quieter due to the narrow lanes you have to navigate to reach it. One tourist from London even asked me if the road was one way as his car squeezed past mine. You can see Woolacombe in the distance in my photos and videos. Woolacombe tends to be busier, with shops selling buckets, spades, and dinghies. But if you come prepared, the white surf, soft golden sand, and peaceful atmosphere without loud music from other beachgoers make for a relaxing experience.

The beach is beautiful. It costs £12 to park a car, which is quite expensive, but there are several staff members needed to maximize parking on a small grass field. The toilets are very clean and well-maintained. There is no drinking water tap for humans. The cafe is efficient and able to serve customers quickly, with reasonable prices. There are limited gluten-free options beyond jacket potatoes.

This beach is a hidden gem, with Baggy Head peninsula providing protection from the South West winds, making it less windy than Woolacombe most days. There is a nice cafe a few steps away, but the toilets are located further up near the far side of the car park. The parking fee of £11 for the day may seem a bit high, but it's only £10 if you don't mind the 3km walk from Woolacombe. The views are stunning and the waves are perfect for body boarding. Surfing conditions depend on the weather, but you can catch some good barrels. Surf board rentals are available near the top of the car park.

In my opinion, this is the best beach I've ever been to, but it is quite pricey. The parking lot has excellent restrooms and the amenities are well-maintained, but I struggle to justify the cost. Nearby beaches like Saunton have a time-based fee system that may be more cost-effective for surfers or dog walkers.