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Mattiscombe Sands

Beach

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Cliffs

Walking, Photography, Wildlife Watching, Climbing

Year round

Photo: Chris Andrews via Geograph.org.uk

Mattiscombe Sands, also called Great Mattiscombe Sand, is a remote sandy cove near Start Point on the South Devon coast, backed by cliffs with rock flats and caves that spread out at low tide. There is no direct access: visitors park at Start Point and walk about a mile along the South West Coast Pa...

10

Parking nearby

0

Food Spots nearby

0

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

8 day, 2 overnight

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Mattiscombe Sands?
South Devon’s coastline holds this secluded spot near Start Point Lighthouse. Walkers on the coastal path can access the sand via a steep downhill trail.

What type of place is Mattiscombe Sands?
Mattiscombe Sands is a sand and rock beach in South Devon.

When is the best time to visit Mattiscombe Sands?
Year round entry means you can enjoy the shifting coastal scenery in any season. Low tide periods offer the safest opportunity to explore the rock flats.

What can you do at Mattiscombe Sands?
People typically enjoy exploring deep rock pools or looking out for the resident grey seal colony. Active individuals can also try bouldering across the unique rock structures.

How long should I spend at Mattiscombe Sands?
Allocating around two hours gives you plenty of time to complete the walk from the car park and explore the sand. A longer stay works well if you want to pack a picnic and watch the wildlife.

Where do I park at Mattiscombe Sands?
Vehicles can use the ten available spaces nearby, which include eight day and two overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Mattiscombe Sands?
There are no food spots recorded immediately near Mattiscombe Sands, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

Where can I stay near Mattiscombe Sands?
There are no staycation spots recorded immediately near Mattiscombe Sands, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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