South Sands
South Sands at Salcombe: a sheltered sandy beach with a summer dog ban, a beach cafe, toilets, limited parking and a passenger ferry from Whitestrand Quay.
At a Glance
Beach Type
sandy
Dogs
Seasonal restrictions
Lifeguard
No
Parking
Limited
Access
Easy access
Swimming
Swim with caution
Facilities
Activities
Stay near South Sands
Closest cottage just 0m away
South Sands is a sandy beach beside Salcombe, sheltered from west winds, with a beach cafe, toilets and a passenger ferry to Whitestrand Quay. It suits a family day where you want the sea, a cafe and a boat ride in one place. If you are staying in Salcombe, the ferry from Whitestrand Quay is the alternative to the limited private parking at the beach.
Swimming and safety
South Sands has no lifeguard. The water is suitable for young children when supervised, and swimming is possible with no strong currents when calm. It is sheltered from west winds. Coastal walks and water sports are on offer, and Sea Kayak Salcombe hires out equipment.
Parking and getting there
Parking here is limited and privately owned. Many visitors use the passenger ferry from Whitestrand Quay in the summer months, or choose to walk.
Access to the sand is by six concrete steps or a concrete ramp, and wheelchairs can reach the beach by the ramp. There are toilets about 40 metres away and a beach cafe.
Dogs
Dogs are not permitted on the beach at any time of day from 1 May to 30 September inclusive. If your dog needs a beach in summer, try Bantham instead, where dogs have a designated river beach all year.
Nearby
North Sands is the other Salcombe beach, with different dog rules, so check which one a listing or sat-nav means. Soar Mill Cove is another South Hams beach nearby.
Make a day of it
Things to do near South Sands
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
- Where is South Sands?
- South Sands is a sandy beach beside Salcombe in the South Hams. It is a separate beach from North Sands, and a passenger ferry links it with Whitestrand Quay in Salcombe.
- Are dogs allowed on South Sands?
- No dogs are allowed on the beach at any time of day from 1 May to 30 September inclusive.
- Is South Sands lifeguarded?
- No. There is no lifeguard at South Sands, so supervise children closely and swim only when conditions are calm.
- Where do I park at South Sands?
- Parking at the beach is limited and privately owned. Many visitors take the passenger ferry from Whitestrand Quay in the summer months or walk.