BIGBURY ON SEA - beautiful beach on the South Devon coast, places to eat, things to do, attractions

Bigbury On Sea is located in south Devon in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and on the South West Coastal Path. It is a very popular family beach destination due to its large flat expanse of soft golden sands and shallow bathing and endless rock pools. It is one of the greatest beaches in South Devon for surfing, kite surfing, paddle boarding, wind surfing and kayaking and is home to the Discovery Surf School (one of the best surf schools in Devon) where you can take lessons, with the added advantage of being able to hire all necessary equipment. Lifeguards are present between May and September and there is also a first aid room and toilets.

BURGH ISLAND HOTEL

This little coastal resort is well known for being the home of the iconic art deco landmark of Burgh Island Hotel which sits on its own tidal island, completely cut off at high tide. The hotel was recently restored to its' 1930's glamour where you can step back in time. The hotel has a rich history from wild parties in the roaring twenties to hosting famous guests such as Agatha Christie, Noel Coward and Winston Churchill. The hotel is open for lunch and dinner to non-residents.

BURGH ISLAND

Burgh Island has wonderful walks where from the top the views are absolutely stunning. The island is steeped in smuggling history and Tom Crocker, leader of a band of vicious pirates in the 14th Century, is thought to have hidden his hoards on the island and inhabited the islands southern caves. His ghost is said to wander the island adding to the mystery and intrigue. The stone shelter at the top of the island was built as a lookout over Bigbury Bay for the fishermen to watch for shoals of pilchard approaching.

THE PILCHARD INN

The 14th century Pilchard Inn is located on Burgh Island where you can enjoy a drink overlooking the beach. Enjoy a cosy fire in the cooler months and an excellent menu in the evening.

THE SEA TRACTOR

When the tide cuts off the hotel from the mainland, those who come to Bigbury On Sea may be lucky enough to take a ride on the one of a kind, third generation hydraulic Sea Tractor to reach the other side. The Sea Tractor runs for guests of Burgh Island Hotel, but members of the public can join the ride for £2.00 each way.

DISCOVERY SURF SCHOOL

Discovery Surf School, one of the best surf schools in Devon is located on Bigbury Beach. Learn how to surf or paddle board, no matter how much or little experience you have. All equipment can be hired.

THE VENUS CAFÉ

The Venus Café is located next to the Discovery Surf School and offer a delicious menu of snacks, meals and drinks.

BIGBURY BEACH SHOP

The Bigbury Beach Shop is located in the public car park at Bigbury on Sea and offers a wide selection of beach related items for sale from beach toys to sun cream.