If you’re dreaming of a peaceful beach holiday with breathtaking scenery, a rich history, and plenty of outdoor adventure, let me introduce you to Slapton Sands Camping and Caravanning Club Site. My family and I just returned from a week-long stay, and we’re already longing to go back.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or trying it for the first time, this South Devon spot is truly special – here’s everything you need to know.
Why Choose Slapton Sands?
Nestled between Kingsbridge and Dartmouth, this campsite offers direct access to Slapton Sands beach – a 3-mile-long stretch of shingle and pebble beach that’s ideal for long walks, sea views, splashing about, and if you’re lucky like us, you might even spot the super curious seals who come right up to the shoreline. The site is a peaceful base in the South Hams District, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) with rolling hills, dramatic coastline, and charming villages.
The Slapton Sands campsite itself is clean, well-managed, and offers facilities like clean showers (without the push buttons), a laundry room, and a little shop. It’s just a short stroll from the seafront and Slapton village, perfect for morning coffees with a view or sunset paddles with the kids.
It is also worth noting that the Site Managers were super-friendly and helpful, nothing was too much trouble, and I noticed how they walked the site every evening chatting to the residents and checking in to see if everything was well.
What Makes Slapton Sands Beach Special?
Unlike many traditional sandy beaches, Slapton Sands is a shingle beach with striking natural beauty and a fascinating history. During WWII, this area was used by the Allied Forces in preparation for the D-Day landings, making it a site of historical significance. You’ll even find a Sherman tank displayed near Torcross, a moving memorial to Exercise Tiger – a tragic but crucial D-Day rehearsal where 749 American servicemen were sadly killed.
We loved walking the Slapton Line, the narrow shingle bar that separates the sea from the Slapton Ley Nature Reserve. It’s the largest freshwater lake in the southwest and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, home to a wealth of birdlife, reed beds, and marsh habitats. We loved spotting birds and learning about fauna thanks to the Field Studies signs dotted along the coastal path.
Exploring the Area: Torcross to Start Point
There’s more to love beyond the beach. We ventured to Torcross, a picturesque village with cafés, a pub, and that famous sands beach view. The Tower Inn in Slapton village serves hearty meals, and we enjoyed fish and chips on the seafront – a holiday must!
Just a short drive away is Strete Gate beach, another peaceful spot perfect for windsurfing and canoeing, or a picnic with a view (and another visit from the seals) – just be warned that the beach to the left of the toilets is a nudist beach. The Beach Cafe is lovely, you must try the ice cream and the iced coffee for the win!! We also explored nearby Blackpool Sands – a blue-flag cove beach with a café and lifeguard patrol during the summer months, making it ideal for families – take note, you cannot take dogs to Blackpool Sands during summer.
For the more adventurous, a hike to Start Point Lighthouse, which offers breathtaking coastal views, is a must, although the lighthouse itself was closed when we walked to it, as it is available to hire for private stays. Nearby Beesands and Hallsands provide a glimpse into historic fishing communities.
Is Slapton Sands Dog-Friendly?
Yes! This is a truly dog-friendly location. Whilst we choose not to holiday with our two dogs because of space in the car, we met lots of beautiful four-legged friends loving the freedom of the pebble beach, splashing in the shallows and running along the shore. Many of the local pubs, including the Tower Inn, welcomed them too.
Practical Tips for Visiting
- The car parks at Torcross and Strete Gate fill quickly on sunny days – arrive early or walk from the campsite.
- The road between Kingsbridge and Dartmouth (A379) and the road to Start Bay Lighthouse are scenic but narrow – take your time.
- There are no lifeguards at Slapton Sands itself, so be extra cautious when swimming with children. At low tide, the beach drops off quickly – we also spotted lots of Compass Jellyfish (can give a nasty sting) and Moon Jellyfish (not as dangerous but can cause a rash).
- Bring beach shoes – the shingle beach can be tough on little feet.
- Stock up in Kingsbridge or Dartmouth before arriving – local shops are limited but lovely.
Places to Visit Nearby
We enjoyed visiting the local area and made the most of our time.
Kingsbridge is a charming market town set at the head of the Kingsbridge Estuary. Known for its independent shops, friendly cafés, and weekly markets, it’s a great place to stock up on supplies at the supermarkets or enjoy a leisurely afternoon. With scenic waterside walks, boat trips, Kingsbridge makes a lovely stop during your visit to Slapton Sands or the South Devon coast.
Dartmouth is a charming harbour town on the South Devon coast, known for its maritime heritage, cobbled streets, and colourful buildings. Set on the banks of the River Dart, it’s a popular spot for sailing, crabbing, and exploring historic sites like Dartmouth Castle and Bayard’s Cove Fort. With boutique shops, art galleries, cosy cafés, and fresh seafood restaurants, Dartmouth blends coastal beauty with a relaxed, upmarket feel – perfect for a day trip or a leisurely boat ride.
Salcombe is a charming coastal town, known for its turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and vibrant sailing scene. Salcombe is a favourite for family holidays, beach lovers, and boating enthusiasts alike. With boutique shops, waterside cafés, and stunning views across the Kingsbridge Estuary, it offers the perfect mix of seaside relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re crabbing on the harbour, paddleboarding on the calm waters, or enjoying fresh seafood, Salcombe delivers laid-back coastal charm in abundance.
Totnes is a vibrant and historic market town, known for its bohemian spirit, independent shops, and rich heritage. Nestled on the banks of the River Dart, it offers a blend of medieval architecture, quirky cafés, and a thriving arts scene, with a strong sense of community and a reputation for eco-conscious living.
A Holiday to Remember
Would we return to Slapton Sands? Absolutely. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and rich with wildlife, history, and coastline to explore. Whether you’re looking to unwind in nature, dive into local history like the invasion of Normandy, or simply enjoy a beach holiday in one of England’s most scenic spots, this corner of South Devon ticks all the boxes.
Have you stayed at Slapton Sands or visited Torcross before? What did you love most? Drop your thoughts in the comments or share your tips for exploring the South Hams coast.
We have reviewed quite a few Camping and Caravanning Club sites, which you can read here if you are looking for somewhere to stay.