Seaside Breaks: Beach Holidays on the English Riviera

The English Riviera on South Devon’s Beautiful Bay is an award winning coastal location, home to the famous crime writer Agatha Christie and a UNESCO-recognised Global Geopark, offering everything you need for a wonderful break.

Whatever the time of year an unrivalled choice of all weather attractions, glorious sandy beaches, stunning scenery and world-class food and drink await you. There is a vibrant calendar of events and festivals for everyone to enjoy plus a large choice of accommodation to choose from. 2013 is a year of celebration with anniversary events and celebrations taking place across the bay.

Ideas and Inspiration

The English Riviera is home to the birthplace of the world’s most famous crime writer Agatha Christie and is also a UNESCO-recognised Global Geopark with 22 miles of idyllic coastline.

English Riviera on Film

View our series of short films and find out why the English Riviera is the perfect destination for your next holiday.

Last Minute Special Offers

Whether you fancy an action packed break or a leisurely getaway you will find the best offers here.

New Places to Explore

The English Riviera is more than just a resort with Dartmoor National Park and the cities of Exeter and Plymouth close by.

Win holiday prizes!

Enter our competitions for your chance to win cottage breaks, indulgent weekends and much more.

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More Seaside Breaks

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Blackpool

Blackpool is the UK’s favourite seaside resort, and with so much to do there this Spring there has never been a better time to visit!

Bournemouth

There is certainly no shortage of things to do in Bournemouth, with attractions, activities and events to suit all tastes and budgets.

Dorset

Dorset is the perfect destination for a seaside holiday with friends and family – sandy beaches, picturesque harbours…the list goes on!

Things to do

Christie & Geopark
- Agatha Christie’s Riviera
  Agatha Christie was born in Torquay. Follow the literary trail and discover the inspiration for so many of her famous books.
- Greenway - Agatha Christie’s Holiday Home
  For an unforgettable day out, take the vintage bus to Agatha Christie’s holiday home at Greenway.
- Geopark Highlights
  Explore Kents Cavern, a world-famous prehistoric cave system where excavations uncovered the oldest remains of modern man.
- Explore the Global Geopark
  Great outdoor adventures include activities such as coasteering, hiking, canoeing and diving.
Things to Do
- Safe Sandy Beaches
  22 sandy beaches and coves to explore, perfect for swimming and rock pooling.
- Spot of Retail Therapy
  If you are looking for some serious retail therapy we have a range of big-name department stores and smaller independent shops.
- World Class Food and Drink
  With a wide range of fresh tempting local produce you will be spoilt for choice! Seafood is our speciality.
- English Riviera Events and Festivals
  We have one of the most vibrant events and festivals programmes in the South West suitable for all ages.
Attractions
- Paignton Zoo and Animal Wildlife Park
  Spend a day exploring Paignton Zoo, home to 2,000 animals in six animal habitats plus some beautiful themed gardens.
- Babbacombe Model Village
  Marvel at a masterpiece of modelling and see the world in miniature from the past to present day. Witness the special 50th anniversary illuminations.
- Smugglers Story
  Become part of the story based on the experiences of smugglers travelling through time with a local smuggler as your guide.
- Living Coasts
  An award-winning coastal zoo, home to a magnificent array of marine life from around the world. See penguins, puffins, fur seals, otters and much more.
On the Water
- Sailing on the English Riviera
  Whether looking to experience sailing for the first time, undertake an RYA course or enjoy an adventure break, you can enjoy a unique sailing holiday.
- Dive on a Global Geopark
  Shore, wreck and deep dives available with an abundance of marine life to be seen including corals, sponges and sea-horses.
- Heritage Boat Trips around the Bay
  Sit back and enjoy South Devon’s Beautiful Bay aboard one of many boats offering trips across the Bay. If you’re lucky you might even get a glimpse of the wild dolphins and seals.
- Canoe the Coves
  Explore the coastline on canoes and kayaks available for hire and get up close to a range of marine and bird life.
Award Winning
- Award Winning Beaches
  We have over 20 wonderful beaches, with clean and calm waters and winners of Quality Coast and Blue Flag awards.
- Purple Flag Award Winner
  For two years in a row Torquay has been given this coveted award which is only given to UK towns and cities that offer a clean, safe and enjoyable night out.
- Award Winning Festivals
  Includes the popular annual international Agatha Christie Festival held in September every year in Torquay.
- Trip Advisor Travellers Choice Award Winner
  Did you know that Torquay was voted 4th Best UK Destination in the Travellers Choice Awards in 2012.