Bigbury On Sea

The causeway here at Bigbury is what draws people in - a proper tidal road that vanishes under water twice a day, connecting the mainland to Burgh Island with its white art deco hotel perched on top. Walk it at low tide and you've got maybe two hours before the sea reclaims it, which adds a genuine edge to what's otherwise a gentle beach stroll. The island itself is small, takes twenty minutes to circuit, but the views back across Bigbury Bay are excellent and the beach on the mainland side is sandy and sheltered, good for families who want something less wild than Bantham or Thurlestone to the east.

Kingsbridge sits just inland, which makes this a natural addition to a wider South Devon coast run. The village is quiet - there's a pub and a cafe, nothing fancy - and you'll want to time your visit around the tides, which are posted locally. Low tide in summer gives you the longest window. Two hours minimum, though most people linger over coffee and a walk round the island.

Family groups with older children will enjoy the slight adventure of it, and the beach itself keeps small kids occupied. The causeway walk is easy, flat, no scrambling. It's free and always open, though obviously impassable at high water. Camping at South Devon Camping just over at Lower Terawhiti Farm is barely two miles away - stay there and you can time your beach morning perfectly. Worth the short drive from Kingsbridge, especially if you're already exploring this corner of the coast.