Activities

South Devon offers a wealth of activities to suit all tastes. From watersports and hiking to family-friendly parks, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re after an adrenaline rush or a peaceful day out in nature, you’ll find plenty of options in the surrounding area.

Watersports

South Devon’s coastline is perfect for all kinds of watersports, from kayaking and paddleboarding to sailing and windsurfing. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, there are plenty of locations that offer rentals and lessons.


Salcombe Watersports
Enjoy a variety of water activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing lessons in Salcombe’s scenic waters.
Visit Salcombe Watersports


Bantham Surfing Academy
Located near Bantham Beach, this academy offers surfing lessons for all skill levels and provides surfboard rentals.
Visit Bantham Surfing Academy


South Sands Beach
A popular beach for kayaking, paddleboarding, and small boat launches, located just a short distance from Salcombe.


Whitestrand Boat Hire
Make the most out of your visit at Salcombe by exploring the coast on one of our boat hire excursions.

Visit Whitestrand Boat Hire

Parks and Gardens

Explore the beauty of South Devon's parks and gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family day out surrounded by nature.


Overbeck’s Garden
A beautiful National Trust garden overlooking Salcombe, filled with exotic plants and offering stunning views.
Visit Overbeck’s Garden


Greenaway

A National House Trust house and garden overlooking the river dart, once owned by Agatha Christie.

Visit Greenaway House


Coleton Fishacre

Coleton Fishacre is another Nation House Trust House and Garden, a 1920s country retreat of the D'Oyly Carte family. Well worth a visit.

Visit Coleton Fishacre


The Garden House
A beautiful, tranquil garden near Buckland Monachorum with stunning plant displays and a peaceful atmosphere .
Visit The Garden House


The Eden Proect

Discover a stunning global garden in Cornwall with indoor rainforests, art, nature and inspiration which sets the stage for an extraordinary day.

Visit the Eden Project

Family-Friendly Activities

Whether you’re visiting with kids or looking for activities that everyone can enjoy, South Devon has plenty to offer.


Woodlands Family Theme Park
A fun-filled park with rides, play areas, and animal encounters, perfect for a day out with young children.
Visit Woodlands Family Theme Park


Pennywell Farm

Plan your perfect family day out at Pennywell Farm — fun, animals, and piggy cuddles!

Visit Pennywell Farm


Splashdown Quaywest
Devon’s largest outdoor waterpark located in Paignton, offering water slides and pools for all ages.
Visit Splashdown Quaywest


Babbacombe Model Village
A beautifully landscaped model village with miniature scenes, gardens, and a variety of family-friendly attractions.
Visit Babbacombe Model Village

Cycling and Mountain Biking

With its varied terrain and stunning landscapes, South Devon is a great destination for cycling enthusiasts.


The Plym Valley Trail
A scenic, traffic-free route for cyclists, following the former railway line between Plymouth and Plymbridge Woods.
Visit The Plym Valley Trail


Dartmoor Cycling
Dartmoor offers a range of cycling routes, from quiet country lanes to more challenging mountain bike trails.
Visit Dartmoor Cycling


Haldon Forest

Discover adventure, nature, and fun for Walking,  Cycling and Segway at Haldon Forest Park—just minutes from Exeter.
Visit Haldon Forest


Exeter Canal & Quayside Cycle Route
A beautiful 12-mile route for cyclists that follows the River Exe from Exeter Quayside, along to Starcross and into the beautiful countryside.
Visit Exeter Canal Cycle Route

Golf Courses

South Devon boasts several scenic golf courses, offering both leisurely rounds for beginners and challenging holes for seasoned players.


Thurlestone Golf Club
A picturesque 18-hole course located in the heart of South Devon, offering stunning views over the coastline.
Visit Thurlestone Golf Club


Dartmouth Golf & Country Club
A fantastic golf course set in beautiful countryside, with facilities suitable for golfers of all levels.
Visit Dartmouth Golf & Country Club


Bigbury Golf Club
A stunning 18-hole course with breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside and coastline.
Visit Bigbury Golf Club

things to do in the area