East Portlemouth Beaches (Small's Cove up to Ditchend Cove), Salcombe, South Devon
Stunning, sandy beaches which run along the East Portlemouth side of the Salcombe Kingsbridge Estuary
The lower section of the Salcombe Kingsbridge Estuary is lined with stunning, sandy beaches. Some of the best are on the east side of the estuary around East Portlemouth. At low tide, these beaches combine to form one long stretch of sand.
Mill Bay Beach (National Trust) is the most popular beach on this side of the estuary. The arc of sand from Small's Cove to Ditchend Cove is also superb.
Location of East Portlemouth Beaches (Small's Cove up to Ditchend Cove)
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Directions and parking for East Portlemouth Beaches (Small's Cove up to Ditchend Cove)
A passenger ferry runs between Salcombe and East Portlemouth. In Salcombe, walk to the southern end of Fore Street where it meets Cliff Road. You'll see signs for the ferry by The Ferry Inn. Follow the narrow alley past The Ferry Inn on your right to the waterfront. In winter, head for the pontoon at Whitestrand Quay in the centre of town.
In East Portlemouth, follow Millbay Road to Ferry Steps by the Venus Cafe. The steps lead down to a long slipway descending over the beach to the water's edge.
For parking in Salcombe, use Shadycombe Road Car Park (3 hours only in the summer) or Creek Car Park (long stay). These are both within short walking distance of Fore Street, The Ferry Inn and Salcombe's waterfront. In high season, we'd recommend using the Park and Ride car park on the A381 approach road into the town.
For parking in East Portlemouth, use the car parking area behind Mill Bay Beach (National Trust). However, we'd recommend using the car parks on the Salcombe side as spaces are limited in and around East Portlemouth and it's much more difficult to get to by road.
East Portlemouth Beaches (Small's Cove up to Ditchend Cove)
There's a slipway on the East Portlemouth side of the water. Small's Cove is south of the slipway. Ditchend Cove is north east of the slipway. Note that the water is tidal so the beaches expand and contract. Check tide times!
Things to do near East Portlemouth Beaches (Small's Cove up to Ditchend Cove)
We'd recommend spending time at Mill Bay Beach (National Trust) a short distance to the south west.
If you fancy a drink or bite to eat then pop up to the Venus Cafe which overlooks the coves.
You can also take the ferry across to The Ferry Inn for a pint. There are lovely views back to East Portlemouth Beaches (Small's Cove up to Ditchend Cove).
For fresh air and views, wait for low tide and then walk the sandy foreshore all the way to the mouth of the estuary. From East Portlemouth Beaches (Small's Cove up to Ditchend Cove) you'll pass through Mill Bay Beach (National Trust) and Sunny Cove (Beach) to the southern end of the Salcombe Kingsbridge Estuary. Wander up to the South West Coast Path and return to East Portlemouth.
Other things to do in the local area
Take the South Sands Sea Tractor/Taxi from the centre of Salcombe to South Sands (Beach).
Wander up to Overbeck's Garden and Museum (National Trust) from South Sands (Beach).
If you like walking, continue from Overbeck's to Sharp Tor and Bolt Head. The views from both spots are amazing.
Alternatively, take the Salcombe Kingsbridge Ferry to Kingsbridge.
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