It's no secret that South Devon is populated with some incredible beaches, including Bantham, which has earned its rightful place in The Times' 50 best beaches in the UK for 2025. Nestled at the point where the River Avon meets Bigbury Bay, Bantham Beach has roots stretching back to the Neolithic and Bronze Age, with archaeological evidence of a Roman trading port at Bantham Ham.

Even with its unique history and charming look, Bantham is more than just a beach; it's a year-round haven for locals and a summertime favourite for visitors, offering something for everyone who loves the coast. It's easy to see why, with its excellent water quality and golden sand dunes, which are meticulously maintained by the privately managed Bantham Estate. But there are two things that really stand out about this Devon gem.

Whether you're a surfer or a family looking for safe swimming with lifeguard cover, or a dog walker seeking a more scenic route this summer, Bantham delivers.

The beach, located within the South Hams district close to Bigbury-on-Sea and Thurlestone, boasts ample on-site parking and tidy footpaths through the grassy sand dunes. A watersports school on-site offers lessons and rentals, making it easy for beginners and enthusiasts to get stuck into surfing, paddleboarding, and more.

Bantham is fully equipped for a day by the sea with toilets, food and coffee vans, and charming local pubs just a short stroll away. Everything you need is close at hand, without the beach feeling over-commercialised.

But what truly sets Bantham apart, other than its Blue Flag status and Marine Conservation Society Awards, are two standout features, including the views across the Avon Estuary to Bigbury-on-Sea.

Look out from the beach, and you'll see a sweeping panorama of the Avon River mouth, with the iconic Burgh Island sitting just off Bigbury's coast.

While Bigbury is home to pastel buildings and framed by pale sands, Burgh Island is renowned for its iconic Aert Deco hotel and connections to Agatha Christie novels like 'And Then There Were None'.

It's a view that shifts with the tides, with a seemingly floating island visible at high tide and a causeway travelled by the Sea Tractor which transports guests to Burgh Island during low tide.

Bantham beach is the perfect viewing point, and those who enjoy the water can experience the same sights up close while surfing, swimming and bodyboarding.

Step between the impressive golden sand dunes at Bantham and you'll find the quiet harbour nook.

The harbour is a tucked-away inlet where small yachts and working boats float near grassy banks. You can spot the quay as you walk the pathway from the top of the car park to the opening of Bantham Beach, resting behind a dune ridge.

At low tide, the estuary reveals winding stream channels and mudflats, plus plenty of birds.

It's a stark contrast to the expansive beach, which fills up with people enjoying the sand and sea on a summer's day.

But that's another thing about Bantham; even when it's very busy, you can find a slice of quiet to enjoy the impressive views along the sandy shore.

Alternatively, you can enjoy a scenic walk on the coastal path. A popular option is the Bantham to Thurlestone circular walk, a moderate 3.2-mile (5.2 km) trek along the South West Coast Path, featuring coastal views and a glimpse of Thurlestone's thatched cottages.