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We’re probably a bit biased, but we think that South Devon boasts some of the best spots for catching the sunset. We’re jam-packed with fantastic locations to see the day come to an end, from coastal scenes to countryside surroundings.
Whether you prefer a secluded spot along the South West Coast Path (but do exercise caution to avoid accidents in the dark!), a vantage point with charming countryside vistas, or a conveniently accessible yet enchanting setting, South Devon has it all covered. Explore our top recommendations for sunset-watching spots in Devon below.
Bigbury-On-Sea Beach, nr Kingsbridge
With Burgh Island in frame, Bigbury-On-Sea Beach offers a stunning location to see the sunset. Located in the South Devon National Landscape (previously AONB), this beach sits on the opposite side of the River Avon from Bantham and has stunning panoramic views of Burgh Island and the surrounding coastline. Bigbury Beach is a popular seaside destination for families in the summer due to its safe, calm waters and golden sandy shores. Pack up a picnic and stay here until the evening to make the most of your beachy day out.
Beardown Tor, Dartmoor
Experiencing a sunset on Dartmoor is a remarkable and enchanting encounter with nature. One of Dartmoor's great, but lesser-known peaks, Beardown Tor stands proudly amidst the jagged landscape, offering a dramatic setting for the day's finale. The tor's elevated position provides an expansive view of the surrounding moorland, allowing visitors to witness the changing landscape bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun.
Teignmouth River Beach, Teignmouth
Known by the locals as ‘Back Beach’, Teignmouth River Beach is another fantastic setting to watch the sunset. Dotted with colourful boats and views of the River Teign and Dartmoor, it’s a very picturesque spot. There’s also a couple of riverside bars and restaurants meaning you can enjoy a pint outside whilst soaking up the last few rays of sunshine. Perfect!
South Milton Sands, nr Kingsbridge
Another notable location in the South Hams is South Milton Sands; a stunning beach characterised by soft golden sand, crystal clear waters and the iconic Thurlestone Rock, a natural arch which stands just offshore. During the summer it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists who venture here for an epic sunset swim.
Exe Estuary at Topsham
Of course, beaches are typically the most popular spots to catch the sun setting over the horizon, but there’s something about relaxing by the river and watching the sun go down that feels a bit more humble. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, the Exe Estuary is a very serene location at all times of the day. The town of Topsham makes a fantastic position to watch the sunset over the river; with its calm waters, it provides a mirror-like canvas for the vibrant colours of the sky. It’s simply stunning.
The Hoe, Plymouth
Known as Britain’s Ocean City, Plymouth has the perfect blend of vibrant city life, and seaside splendour. The Hoe is one of Devon’s most iconic spots with Smeaton’s Tower, the striking red and white lighthouse, in view. If you’re spending time in this bustling city, be sure to venture to the Hoe for sunset to see the sky surrounding Plymouth Sound transform into a myriad of different colours.
Hope Cove, nr Kingsbridge
Our last location in the South Hams is Hope Cove, a small fishing village with two glorious beaches. Its rustic setting with quaint thatched cottages and pretty beachside eateries makes a great location to spend the day at the beach, and then catching the sun hide behind the sea with a pint in hand. The sheltered beach is a popular spot for sunset seekers, but you can also take the South West Coast Path towards South Milton Sands for an elevated vantage point to get the perfect view of this charming little village dappled in the late evening sun.
Hound Tor, Dartmoor
Sitting within the expansive and rugged landscape of Dartmoor National Park, Hound Tor provides a captivating backdrop to watch the sun set over the dynamic countryside. This granite tor, characterised by its weathered rock formations adds a touch of ancient mystic to this evening spectacle. The tranquillity of the Dartmoor landscape during sunset at Hound Tor is truly enchanting. Visitors often find themselves immersed in the serene atmosphere, accompanied by the sounds of nature.
Jacob’s Ladder Beach, Sidmouth
The sunset at Jacob’s Ladder Beach is a magical experience. Whilst you can’t witness the sun actually setting behind the sea, the sky is often painted in a stunning hue of pastel pink, yellow and blue; a mesmerising sight to be seen. Sitting on the Jurassic Coast in East Devon, it makes an ideal spot to wait for night to fall; enjoy a portion of fish and chips on the beach from one of the local takeaways, or ascend the ladder in which this beach is named after for an even better viewpoint.
Dawlish Beach, Dawlish
Much like the above beach, Dawlish Beach is a fantastic place to enjoy a portion of locally-caught fish and chips on the beach whilst the sun sets. As the evening approaches, the sky above the beach transforms into a canvas of warm colours and the reflection on the gentle waves create a peaceful atmosphere. You’ll often spot anglers on the breakwater fishing for the local bounty and when the sun goes down; it makes a stunning silhouette for any avid photographers.
And there we have it, our favourite spots for watching the sun set in South Devon. Of course, there’s probably a whole array of other popular spots that we didn’t include, so why not let us know if we missed your favourite on Facebook, Instagram or X (Twitter). We also love seeing your South Devon sunset pics so be sure to tag us in your posts on all platforms using @VisitSouthDevon or #VisitSouthDevon.
Related
Within a short walk from the town centre, Dawlish Town Beach is ideal to escape the hustle and bustle of the town.
Bigbury on Sea is a popular family beach and great for windsurfing and kite surfing. A stunning sandy beach in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) joined by causeway to Burgh Island. Shallow water for paddling and rock pools for exploring.
Dartmoor National Park is one of the last great wildernesses in the UK with an inspirational landscape of heatherclad moors and rugged tors.
Located on the estuary side of town, this charming beach takes you back to days gone by. Local fishermen mend nets, sand eels are caught, boats bob up and down with the tide and children splashing and playing.
If you want sand, stunning scenery and the chance to see rare wildlife on your holiday then South Milton Sands has got the lot. It’s set in an National Landscape (previously AONB) and behind the beach you can discover wetlands that have been designated as an Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
The Exe Estuary is of international importance for wintering waders and wildfowl, supporting 1000s of birds. One of the best opportunities to view the wildlife of the estuary is at the the RSPB's two nature reserves.
A fascinating and quaint historic estuary port, Topsham has some fine architecture. There are Dutch traders’ houses and fine examples of buildings from Georgian and Edwardian times.
Plymouth was where Drake, Darwin, and many more set sail from her harbour with a spirit of discovery. The city's maritime heritage has blended with contemporary culture and the city now offers the best in entertainment, nightlife and shopping.
This is a sheltered, sandy beach in a traditional fishing village in the beautiful South Hams. The waters are calm and still so relatively safe for swimming. Facilities include; shops, parking, toilets, dogs allowed, easy access, nature and wildlife.
Tucked into a sheltered cove behind Bolt Tail, Hope is an old fishing village now given over to a relaxed style of tourism. Smallish sandy beach, rock pools and clean sea, make Hope an attractive proposition for couples and families with quieter holiday.
South West Coast Path National Trail is 630 miles long, from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset.
Jacob's Ladder Beach is a beautiful expanse of sand and shingle beach, clean, accessible, and surrounded by beautiful red cliffs, perfect for families to spend a day.
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