Salcombe is South Devon’s most famous coastal destination, loved for its bright harbour, golden beaches, artisan shops and sheltered estuary waters. It is one of the UK’s most desirable seaside towns, with a mix of laid-back holiday atmosphere, excellent food, creative local businesses and some of the most beautiful coastal scenery anywhere in the South Hams.
Once a traditional fishing port, Salcombe has evolved into a place where harbour life shapes the rhythm of each day. In summer, the town buzzes with sailing dinghies, paddleboards, tenders and visiting yachts weaving through turquoise water. Out of season, it becomes quieter and more reflective, offering peaceful walks, calm seas and mild weather that still feels distinctly coastal even in winter.
Salcombe is a town that families return to for generations. The beaches, the ferries, the cafés and the views become part of people’s holiday traditions, and it is this sense of familiarity and community that gives Salcombe its special character.
What Makes Salcombe Special
Salcombe sits on the Kingsbridge to Salcombe Estuary, a long, sheltered stretch of water bordered by cliffs, creeks and sandy coves. The estuary creates a unique combination of calm water and dramatic coastline, making it ideal for sailing, swimming, paddleboarding and boat trips.
Visitors love Salcombe for its variety. You can wander through boutique shops in the morning, take the ferry across to East Portlemouth for a beach afternoon, and finish the day with seafood overlooking the harbour. Everything is close together, yet the landscape feels spacious and open, giving the town a rare blend of comfort and adventure.
Salcombe Harbour: Life on the Water
Salcombe’s harbour is the heart of the town. On warm days it feels almost Mediterranean, with sunlight bouncing off the water, children crabbing along the quay, and the peaceful sound of sails flapping in the breeze. The estuary is always in motion, with paddleboarders gliding past, dinghies zigzagging through the channel and ribs shuttling between moorings.
Harbour life is part of every holiday here. Sitting on the Ferry Inn steps at high tide is a classic Salcombe moment, as is watching the harbour come alive during summer racing. Each August, two consecutive regattas bring an extra level of excitement. The Salcombe Town Regatta and the Salcombe Yacht Club Regatta run back to back, filling the town with sailing races, games, fireworks and family events. It is one of the most celebrated times of year, and the harbour becomes a lively stage for it all.
Even if you never step on a boat, spending time by the harbour is one of the best ways to experience Salcombe’s charm.
Island Street: Salcombe’s Creative Quarter
Island Street is one of the most interesting and characterful parts of Salcombe. Historically known for its traditional boatyards, the street has transformed into a vibrant waterside district blending craft, food and local creativity. The atmosphere is relaxed, slightly bohemian and full of life on warm days.
Here you will find:
- Salcombe Gin Distillery
- Devon Rum Co.
- Rockfish Salcombe
- Salcombe Tap House
- Salcombe Dairy Ice Cream
- Jam Industries
- Will Bees Bespoke
- Traditional boatbuilders still working along the water
It is a brilliant area to explore on foot, with a great mix of artisan businesses, creative workshops and relaxed places to eat and drink. Island Street remains closely linked to its maritime roots but has developed its own modern identity that visitors love.
East Portlemouth Beaches
The East Portlemouth beaches are one of Salcombe’s greatest strengths. A short passenger ferry takes you across to a line of soft, golden beaches with clear water and a peaceful atmosphere. It feels quieter and more natural than the town side, and many families return here year after year because it offers such a simple, beautiful beach experience.
The beaches here include:
- Mill Bay
- Fisherman’s Cove
- Smalls Cove
- Sunny Cove
This side of the estuary also gives access to some of the best coastal walking in the region, including the spectacular clifftop route to Gara Rock.
North Sands
North Sands is the beach closest to the centre of town and one of the most family-friendly spots in Salcombe. At low tide, the beach opens up with soft sand, rock pools and space for games. At high tide, the bay is sheltered and great for swimming. The whole area is overlooked by The Winking Prawn, a long-established beachside restaurant that gives North Sands a warm, easy-going holiday feel.
It is a great choice for simple beach days where you do not need to pack the car or travel far.
South Sands
South Sands has a slightly more refined atmosphere, backed by trees and set in a sheltered cove that feels peaceful even in summer. Families love the clear, calm water and soft sand. Water sports hire is available on the beach, and Bo’s Beach Café offers snacks, drinks and ice creams in warmer months.
One of the best Salcombe experiences is catching the passenger ferry that runs from the town via the Sea Tractor at South Sands. This quirky amphibious tractor carries passengers between the beach and the ferry when the tide is high and adds a fun, nostalgic touch to any holiday here.
Overbeck’s Garden
At the far end of South Sands sits Overbeck’s Garden, a National Trust property with exotic plants, sweeping views and peaceful corners overlooking the water. It is one of the most beautiful garden settings in the South Hams and a lovely place to spend a quiet afternoon.
Walking Around Salcombe
Salcombe is one of the best bases in South Devon for coastal walking, offering everything from gentle paths to challenging full-day hikes. The scenery changes constantly, from open sea views to wooded valleys and sandy coves. The paths are well-marked and rewarding, making walking one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the area.
Popular routes include:
- Salcombe to Gara Rock
- Salcombe to Bolt Head
- Salcombe to Hope Cove (for experienced walkers)
- North Sands to South Sands to Overbeck’s
- Snape’s Point Circular
- East Portlemouth to Rickham Common
Short or long, every route offers something special.
Food and Drink in Salcombe
The food and drink scene in Salcombe is excellent, with everything from beach cafés to seafood restaurants and artisan producers. The variety suits every type of holiday, whether you want relaxed family meals or something more refined. In summer, the town feels lively and social, with outdoor dining and sunlit terraces, while spring and autumn offer calmer, more peaceful evenings.
Some of the highlights include:
- The Ferry Inn – Waterside pub with classic Salcombe views.
- The Victoria Inn – A warm, welcoming pub with great food.
- The Winking Prawn – Iconic beach restaurant at North Sands.
- Rockfish – Fresh seafood overlooking the water.
- Salcombe Gin Distillery Bar – Cocktails and tastings.
- Devon Rum Co. – Craft rum drinks and a fun, lively taproom.
- Salcombe Dairy – Handmade chocolate and ice cream.
- Harbour Hotel’s Upper Deck Restaurant – For something a little smarter.
There is also a good-sized Co-op in town and Ashby’s, just outside Salcombe, offering a farm shop, café, garden centre and outdoor store.
Shopping and Browsing
Shopping is part of the Salcombe experience. The town blends independent boutiques with well-known coastal clothing brands, giving it a holiday feel while still feeling personal and distinctive. Fore Street and Island Street are the main areas to browse, and both have a relaxed, leisurely vibe.
You will find:
- Will Bees Bespoke, Jam Industries
- Musto, Crew Clothing, Saltrock, FatFace, Henri-Lloyd, Mountain Warehouse
- Salcombe Dairy, Cranch’s Sweet Shop, The Bake House
- Independent galleries, home stores and gift shops
- A good-sized Co-op and a Spar for convenience
It is a great place to wander, browse and pick up a few treats.
Day Trips and Nearby Attractions
Salcombe sits in the heart of the South Hams, making it the perfect base for exploring the coast and countryside. Whether you want another beach day, a market town visit or a longer coastal walk, everything is within easy reach.
Popular day trips include:
- Kingsbridge – Independent shops, cafés and two big supermarkets.
- Dartmouth – A historic harbour town with stunning scenery.
- Totnes – Fairtrade, creative and full of character.
- Hope Cove – Sandy beaches and relaxed seaside charm.
- Bantham and Thurlestone – Larger beaches with surf and big skies.
- Slapton Sands and Torcross – Dramatic coastline with D-Day history.
Salcombe gives you variety and freedom to explore without ever straying far from the coast.
Who Salcombe Is Best For
Salcombe appeals to a broad range of visitors. It is lively, scenic and full of things to do, but it also has quieter corners for slow mornings and peaceful walks. Whether you love beaches, food, water sports or simply being in a beautiful place, the town offers something for everyone.
Best for
- Families – Safe beaches, ferries, ice cream shops and lots to explore.
- Couples – Beautiful views, excellent restaurants and romantic walks.
- Sailors and watersports lovers – Calm estuary water and fantastic facilities.
- Food lovers – Great seafood, distilleries and artisan producers.
- Walkers – Some of the most scenic coastal paths in South Devon.
- Shoppers – A great mix of boutiques and coastal brands.
Less ideal for
- Visitors wanting complete quiet in summer – The town is busy at peak times.
- Those who dislike steep hills – Salcombe has some challenging slopes.
- Travellers without a car – Exploring the wider area is easier with one.
Why Salcombe Is One of the UK’s Great Seaside Towns
Salcombe combines spectacular scenery, beautiful beaches, excellent food, artisan shops and a strong maritime identity. It is lively and exciting in the summer but calm and atmospheric out of season. Whether you come for the sailing, the sunshine, the walking, the food or simply the feel of the place, Salcombe rarely disappoints.
It is a town that stays with you, and one people return to for decades.