Plymouth

Plymouth is the gateway to some of the South West's finest coastline, where a proud maritime city meets Dartmoor's wild edges and the Cornish border. Standing on the Hoe with Plymouth Sound spread below, you're minutes from swimming coves, hidden inlets and open moorland. Our collection covers standout beaches, secret hidden gems, freshwater and tidal wild swimming spots, a wider pick of places to visit, and further-flung day trips into Devon and Cornwall, so both quick outings and full-day adventures are easy to plan.

Best Beaches Near Plymouth

Jennycliff over the Sound, Barn Pool and hidden Cellar Beach are among the best beaches near Plymouth, coves ringing one of Britain's finest harbours.

Best Places to Visit Near Plymouth

Around Plymouth Sound where Devon meets Cornwall, the best places to visit near the city include Firestone Bay, Devil's Point tidal pool and Barn Pool Beach.

Best Wild Swimming Spots Near Plymouth

Plymouth pairs saltwater with Dartmoor's rivers for wild swimming, from the Devil's Point tidal pool to Sharrah Pool, Cadover Bridge and Spitchwick Common.

Hidden Gems Near Plymouth

See eight hidden gems near Plymouth on foot, from Tinside Lido and the Devil's Point tidal pool to the Elizabethan Gardens, Mount Wise and the Box museum.

Top Beaches Day Trips from Plymouth

Best beaches near Plymouth gather round Plymouth Sound, from Firestone Bay and Jennycliff to Barn Pool, Sharrow and the quiet, hidden cove at Cellar Beach.

Top Hidden Gems Day Trips from Plymouth

Tinside Lido, the Elizabethan Gardens and Devil's Point tidal pool sit among Plymouth's hidden gems, the maritime city's quieter corners just off the trail.

Where can you go wild swimming near Plymouth?

The area offers both sheltered sea coves and river pools within easy reach, from tidal spots around the Sound to Dartmoor's moorland streams. Our wild swimming guide flags access and safety notes, though you should always check tides and conditions before entering the water.

What are the best beaches near Plymouth?

You'll find sandy bays and rocky coves along the Devon and Cornwall coasts either side of the city, many under an hour away. Our beaches and day-trip guides cover family sands, surf spots and quieter coves to suit every kind of visit.

Is Plymouth a good base for day trips?

Yes. Plymouth sits between Dartmoor National Park and the Cornish coast, so beaches, moorland and hidden villages are all reachable in a day. Our day-trip guides map out the best beaches and hidden gems within a comfortable drive of the city.