Switch off at these 7 beautiful beaches in Devon

Found on the north Devon coast (near Combe Martin), Wild Pear Beach’s luscious green cliffs provide Wild Pear Beach with natural cover, giving it an isolated feel and an appearance that looks more like Hawaii than England.

With its sweeping crescent-shaped beach and gently lapping waves, Blackpool Sands in south Devon feels as if it’s a million miles away from England. Why not try your hand at some exhilarating water sports whilst you’re there?

This beach isn’t easy to access but if want a little slice of Thailand on home turf, it’s well worth the hike. Located near the South West Coast Path in north Devon, it feels distinctly exotic with its turquoise sea and hidden caves. Be sure to check tide times before you explore.

Accessible from Bideford or Ilfracombe by boat, enjoy true isolation while exploring the bays, caves and beaches of this other-worldly island. Expect panoramic views of bright blue seas teeming with seals and dolphins.

Looks can be deceiving at Lannacombe Beach; this stretch of coastline may look like it’s been plucked straight from the Mediterranean, but it’s definitely the bracing English sea! One of South Devon’s most picturesque spots, Lannacombe Beach is less than an hour’s drive from Plymouth, Torquay and Paignton.

It isn’t just Barricane’s sandy beach and crystal clear waters which are reminiscent of the Caribbean; locals say that the sea shells and cowries that wash up on its shores have travelled thousands of miles across the Atlantic from distant islands. Soak up sea views from this far-reaching beach and see if you can find an exotic treasure of your own.

With its long sandy beach and breaking waves, Bantham Beach is a surfers’ paradise. You don’t need to be a pro to enjoy Bantham though; try your hand on the smaller waves, or simply kick back and watch others attempt to conquer the sea. Make sure to take a sea tractor ride to nearby Burgh Island too; it was said to have inspired some of Agatha Christie’s work!