Salcombe is a popular destination for visitors to South Devon and sits right on the South west coast path as the next major town on from Hope Cove.
You'll find a vibrant town centre geared towards holiday makers with boutique shops and access and to Salcombe Estuary. Salcombe is within the South Devon area of outstanding natural beauty and is a beautiful coastal town because of it.
This guide will give more information on Salcombe's history, local beaches, coastal walks, watersports and things to do.
For visitors to The Cottage Hotel, Salcombe is often on the list for a day out because it is so close to Hope Cove. Of course, Salcombe can be a busy place (particularly in the summer) so for a relaxing getaway, our guests return west to Hope Cove for dinner and a sunset.
Things to Do in Salcombe
Salcombe is packed with activities that make it one of South Devon’s most vibrant seaside towns. Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, or simply soaking up the harbour views, there’s something for everyone.
Salcombe Town Regatta
One of the highlights of the summer calendar is the annual Salcombe Town Regatta. This week-long celebration usually takes place in late July or early August and features sailing races, rowing, sandcastle competitions, a funfair, fireworks, and plenty of family-friendly entertainment. The regatta draws visitors from across Devon and creates a lively atmosphere throughout the town.
Salcombe Maritime Museum
For a taste of local history, the Salcombe Maritime Museum is well worth a visit. The museum tells the story of the town’s seafaring heritage, from shipbuilding and fishing to the infamous Salcombe lifeboat disaster of 1916. It’s a small but fascinating museum, perfect for learning more about the estuary, its people and Salcombe's rich maritime history.
Salcombe Gin Distillery
If you fancy something more modern, head to the Salcombe Gin Distillery, where you can enjoy a tour or even take part in a gin-making experience. The distillery’s bar overlooks the water, making it a wonderful place to sample their award-winning spirits while enjoying the estuary views.
Market Street
Salcombe’s bustling Market Street is the heart of the town centre. Here you’ll find boutique shops, art galleries, cafés, and independent clothing stores. It’s the perfect place to browse for gifts, pick up local produce, or simply enjoy an ice cream as you wander through the colourful streets.
Tourist Information Centre
For those planning a longer stay or keen to explore the South Hams further, the Salcombe Tourist Information Centre provides maps, walking guides, and tips for exploring the coast. From there, you can plan trips to nearby beaches such as North Sands and South Sands, or even arrange a boat trip across the estuary to East Portlemouth.
Beaches, Swimming and Water sports
Salcombe is famous for its golden beaches, many of which are tucked away along the scenic estuary and make for perfect day trips during the summer months. There are many beautiful beaches to choose from, ranging from quiet coves to wide sandy bays, so whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
For families, North Sands and South Sands are ideal family beaches, offering a long sandy stretch with safe swimming areas and nearby cafés. Both are easily accessible from the town and are popular spots to spend a sunny day.
If you’d like something a little more secluded, Sunny Cove is a favourite with locals and visitors alike. Accessible by boat or a coastal walk, it’s a stunning sandy beach with calm, clear waters that are perfect for a refreshing swim.
Salcombe is also a haven for water sports enthusiasts. From paddleboarding and kayaking on the estuary to sailing and dinghy racing, the town is well known for its vibrant water-based activities. During the summer, you’ll see yachts, canoes, and boards criss-crossing the waters, making it one of the most active and exciting coastal destinations in Devon.
Salcombe Shopping Guide
Often described as one of the prettiest towns in Devon, Salcombe is just as well known for its shopping as it is for its scenery. The town centre is lined with boutique shops that give Salcombe its unique charm, offering everything from coastal-inspired fashion and homewares to handmade jewellery and art.
While big-name brands can be found, the real treasures are the local traders. Independent shops showcase the creativity of the South Hams, with galleries displaying the work of local artists, gift shops filled with unique finds, and delicatessens offering locally sourced produce. From nautical clothing to artisan food, there’s always something special to take home as a reminder of your visit or simply for a spot of retail therapy.
Wandering through the narrow streets is part of the experience, with colourful shopfronts and friendly traders making shopping in Salcombe a pleasure in itself. Whether you’re after holiday essentials, souvenirs, or a treat for yourself, Salcombe’s shops capture the character and spirit of this much-loved coastal town.
Places to Eat and Drink in Salcombe
Salcombe’s food scene is as inviting as its scenery. The town is packed with cafés, pubs, and restaurants that make the most of fresh, local produce from the South Hams and the surrounding coast.
Seafood lovers will find plenty of choice, with menus showcasing freshly caught crab, lobster, and local fish straight from the estuary. Traditional waterside pubs serve hearty meals with a view, while fine-dining restaurants offer creative dishes inspired by the sea and countryside.
For a more casual bite, there are cosy cafés and delis tucked away in the town centre, ideal for coffee, cakes, or a light lunch while shopping. Families will enjoy the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, with plenty of child-friendly options available.
No trip to Salcombe would be complete without trying a scoop of locally made Salcombe Dairy Ice Cream or sampling a glass of Salcombe Gin at one of the town’s stylish bars. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a family-friendly lunch, or just a quick drink by the harbour, Salcombe has something to suit every taste.
Walking South West Coast Path from Salcombe
For walkers, Salcombe is a brilliant starting point on the South West Coast Path, with routes leading out in both directions that showcase some of Devon’s most dramatic scenery.
Heading east, you’ll find gentler stretches of path that follow the estuary and lead towards East Portlemouth and Mill Bay. From here, the route opens up to some of the area’s finest sandy coves and breathtaking views back across the water to Salcombe itself. The eastern side is well suited to families and those looking for a more relaxed walk with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the beaches along the way.
If you turn west out of Salcombe, the path quickly becomes more challenging. The steep west side rises sharply above the cliffs, rewarding walkers with dramatic coastal panoramas. This route takes you out towards the rugged headland of Bolt Head, a highlight for many walkers, where the cliffs plunge down into turquoise waters and seabirds wheel overhead. It’s a tougher stretch but an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking the wilder side of South Devon.
If you’re planning a longer walk, continuing west past Bolt Head will eventually bring you to Hope Cove. The full stretch from Salcombe to Hope Cove along the Coast Path is around 7 miles (11 km), depending on the exact route you take, and typically takes 3–4 hours on foot. It’s a challenging but rewarding hike, with a mix of cliff-top ascents, rolling headlands, and sheltered valleys.
For guests staying at The Cottage Hotel in Hope Cove, this walk is a wonderful way to combine a day trip to Salcombe with a scenic coastal return. Many walkers choose to travel one way by bus or taxi and then enjoy the Coast Path in the opposite direction. Either way, the journey links two of the South Hams’ most picturesque seaside spots, making it a highlight of any visit.