Paignton Sands

Paignton Sands is the seafront beach: long, red-sanded and shallow, with a pier in the middle and the promenade, green and cafes close behind. It suits families who want facilities within reach and are happy to share the sand. It is the beach to head for from Paignton.

Swimming and lifeguards

The sea is shallow and ideal for paddling, and the beach is classed as a Natural beach under the English Riviera Beach Standard. There are no lifeguards: Tor Bay beaches are not patrolled or monitored by lifeguards. Swim with a buddy and keep close to the shore. There is a designated windsurfing area, so look out for boards.

Dogs

Dogs are banned from Paignton Sands from 1 May to 30 September. From 1 October to 30 April they can go on all Torbay beaches. In summer there is a dog exercise area on the green behind the beach for dogs on leads, and a dog on the promenade next to a restricted beach must also be on a lead. For a summer beach that does allow dogs, try Elberry Cove.

Parking and access

Parking is some distance away, and Victoria is the closest car park. Access along the promenades and harbour is level, and there are two ramps, north and south of the pier, from the promenade onto the beach. Toilets at Central, Festival Apollo and Paignton Harbour are open all year, and the first two include disabled facilities.

On the green and nearby

Facilities include a cafe or restaurant, the pier, deckchair and pedalo hire, plus crazy golf, a play park and donkey rides on the green behind the beach. Further along the bay, Goodrington Sands has a park and a separate dog-friendly North Sands.