Slapton Sands, Slapton, Kingsbridge, Devon
Contrary to its name, Slapton Sands is actually a long stretch of shingle and pebble beach on the coast of South Devon, midway between Kingsbridge and Dartmouth. The beach is backed by a row of cottages and the beautiful rolling countryside of the South Hams, and it has to be said, it’s a beautiful place to be. The clean waters and the facilities make Slapton Sands a popular spot for families to spend a day on the beach and the bonus is that it never feels crowded; everyone just goes about their own thing, whether that’s bathing, picnicking, angling, or getting out on the sea for watersports like windsurfing, kayking and paddleboarding. Ramblers often stop off here making a slight detour from the South West Coast Path, and who can blame them – with a beach café and WCs it makes for a good refreshment break.
Slapton Sands is not without its history; a stone monument commemorates the scene of the ill-fated Operation Tiger in 1943 when the beach was taken over by the allied forces as a rehearsal area for the D-Day Landings. Sadly, the weather conditions meant poor visibility and 749 American servicemen lost their lives.
Behind the beach is Slapton Ley, a vast freshwater lake and National Nature Reserve that’s home to some of the UK’s rarest wildlife. Beyond that is the peaceful village of Slapton, well worth bearing in mind for dinner at The Queens Arms or The Tower Inn after a day on the beach.
Slapton Sands is dog friendly all year.
All information correct at the time of writing