Budleigh Salterton in Devon is a ‘wonderfully unspoilt’ seaside town with a two-mile pebble beach, red sandstone cliffs and plenty of local businesses to explore – and it’s a perfect holiday spot
A quaint and ‘wonderfully unspoilt’ seaside spot on Devon’s Jurassic Coast has just scooped a title as one of Blighty’s top under-the-radar coastal jewels.
Nestled about halfway between Exmouth and Sidmouth, you’ll find the lesser-known jewel of Budleigh Salterton, an utterly charming retreat dubbed one of Devon’s best-kept plummy secrets.
Alex Gwillim, a local expert from Sweetcombe Cottage Holidays, said: “Budleigh Salterton is a real hidden gem, boasting a beautiful pebble beach that stretches over two miles, the iconic red sandstone cliffs of the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic coast, and a small town filled with unique local businesses to explore.
Alex also highlighted how “people often miss out on a visit to Budleigh Salterton”, as it is overlooked due to its proximity to the hotspot havens of Exmouth and Sidmouth, which lure large numbers on a sunny day.
But it’s precisely the expansive beach and tranquillity of Budleigh Salterton that casts this serene seaside town as an idyllic destination for families seeking a peaceful slice of shore or couples craving a coastal getaway
With its shores ranking among The Times’ Top 10 Beaches in the South West, and its waters bestowed an “Excellent” rating in the Bathing Water Classifications 2024, Budleigh Salterton emerges as a prime haunt for those keen to dip in for a swim or indulge in some splashy fun.
Thrill-seekers trekking to Budleigh Salterton are in for a treat as Alex notes the superb variety of water sport options available. With the chance to rent standup paddleboards or kayaks, adventurers can take to the seaward paths for an aquatic exploration of the coastline.
For those dreaming of a laid-back getaway, you’ll have no shortage of options, including beach strolls and sampling the delights at local cafes and tearooms.
Alex spilled even more secrets for holidaymakers: “Budleigh Salterton is also the perfect spot for nature lovers. Head along the beach towards the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, a popular spot for bird watching. There are also easy walking trails with fantastic views of the Triassic sandstone cliffs and their fascinating geology.”
Bagging a staycation in Budleigh Salterton couldn’t be cosier, with a wealth of snug cottages, B&Bs, and hotels on offer and the town’s quaint size means the beach is practically your neighbour wherever you kip.
Budleigh Salterton’s shore has fans gushing on TripAdvisor, proudly boasting a four-star rating. One beachgoer gushed: “We loved this beach. It was nice and quiet. People were swimming and paddle boarding and it was perfect as the sea was so calm. It was nice and quiet despite it being a sunny June Sunday.”
“Has a lovely walk along the well kept promenade. Plenty of benches to rest a while and take in the view. Also well served with places to get a coffee, ice cream and lunch etc. No awful arcades just wonderfully unspoilt,” a second added.
And yet another visitor raved: “Fabulous place to go for a walk. One can walk to Exmouth and be back in less than 4 hours. The whole walk was relaxing and the fabulous scenery.”
Another individual commented: “Great scenery, friendly community, always clean and great for the family, there is a great relaxing walk across the seafront which is accessible for everyone.”