Beach trips from Plymouth

BEACHES NEAR PLYMOUTH

Two South Devon beaches that are normally reachable from central Plymouth in around half an hour or less.

Plan the drive

The closest useful beach options from Plymouth

Wembury is the straightforward short hop. Mothecombe is close to the limit and needs more planning because access is privately managed and the final roads are rural.

Times are approximate, not a promise. These are normal off-peak estimates from Royal Parade, Plymouth, reviewed in August 2026. Summer traffic, roadworks, narrow lanes and finding a parking space can push the journey beyond 30 minutes. Open the route planner before setting off.

2 nearby options

Beaches within about 30 minutes

About 20 minutes off-peak

Wembury Beach

A National Trust beach known for rock pools, wildlife and coast walks around Wembury Point and the Great Mewstone.

Starting point: Royal Parade, Plymouth
Destination: Wembury Beach car park, PL9 0HP
Beach information: Official National Trust information

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About 28 minutes off-peak

Mothecombe

A quiet River Erme beach with limited public access arrangements. Check the current access days and tide before leaving Plymouth.

Starting point: Royal Parade, Plymouth
Destination: Mothecombe Beach car park, PL8 1LW
Beach information: Read the Beach Notes guide

Check the drive