The Devonshire coastline offers endless stretches of golden beaches and lapping turquoise waves, backed by majestic cliffs or enchanting woodland. These picturesque scenes are a haven for beach days in warmer months, or for rambles along coastal paths and nature reserve trails in autumn, offering breathtaking seaside vistas.
Some of the most popular Devon beaches can be found in Woolacombe, with sweeping golden sands framed by rolling dunes, and in Croyde, whose broad coastline is celebrated as a premier surfing hotspot, alongside its bustling seaside village. Yet one part of the Devonshire coastline has gained widespread attention, with scenery rivalling that of the Mediterranean.
Blackpool Sands, with its unspoilt golden shore and famously crystal-clear turquoise waters framed by rolling hills and pine trees, has been crowned the most beautiful beach in the UK. The ranking comes from research by DFDS, and the beach "edges out some of the UK's most famous coastal destinations to take the number one spot".
The ferry and cruise operator analysed Google reviews, pinpointing positive descriptors such as 'beautiful', 'stunning', 'picturesque' and 'tranquil' to reveal the 15 best beaches and coastal coves across the UK. Outshining Sandbanks Beach in Dorset and Porthcurno Beach in Cornwall, Blackpool Sands recorded 152 positive keywords per 100 reviews, with its "sheltered bay, Mediterranean-blue water and surrounding pine trees" highlighted among its attributes.
While Blackpool Sands is a slice of paradise in summer, with pristine shores perfect for soaking up the sun, it still warrants a visit at any time of year. Its turquoise waters are celebrated among the clearest in the UK, making it tempting to take a dip even on chillier days, if only for a paddle up to the knees. The beach, made up of shingle and pebble despite its name, also maintains its prestigious Blue Flag status.
Thanks to its distinctive crescent shape and wooded hillsides, it offers natural shelter even on brisk British days. Its picture-postcard views are enough to warrant a visit, with its shingle beach perfect for a stroll before exploring nearby walking routes, from woodland trails to coastal paths.
Visitors can also hire paddleboards and kayaks to explore the exceptionally clear turquoise waters; just be sure to wrap up during colder months. Yet it might be the perfect time to visit, as there is a beachside sauna to take advantage of and a café for a warming cuppa. Equally, its scenes have drawn comparisons to the Mediterranean.
"Superb beach – If this was in the Mediterranean, people would rave about it," one hailed on TripAdvisor. Another remarked: "Beautiful beach, beautiful surroundings and a wonderful time was had! We almost forgot we were still in the UK. Recommend!"
While a third commented: "This is a stunning beach. Beautiful cove with amazingly clear water. Great shop and cafe on site, and parking is reasonable. Some reviews moan about the shingle! Yes, there is no sand, but fine shingle, which is perfect to walk on and play games on.
"This cove is just so beautiful, and I could spend all day, any day at this beach. Do not listen to any bad reviews about the shingle as that is probably only from people who aren’t normally beach goers and have soft feet! This is the most amazing cove to spend a beach day, and it is stunning. You will not regret visiting. It’s simply beautiful."
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Blackpool Sands Beats Woolacombe and Croyde as UK’s Prettiest