Before you set off
Today's snapshot
Thurlestone is at its best a couple of hours either side of low tide, when the sand opens right up and the rockpools around the arch are exposed for exploring.
Plan your visit
Getting there
The National Trust car park is close to Thurlestone beach. An overflow field opens during busy summer periods, but spaces can still fill quickly on sunny days.
- Parking: Use the National Trust car park. The nearby golf club car park is reserved for members and guests.
- Dog rules: Dogs welcome all year at both Thurlestone Sands and the National Trust-managed South Milton Sands section. No seasonal ban.
- Accessibility: The approach from the car park is fairly flat, though the beach is soft sand and uneven around the rocks.
Stay nearby
Where to stay
There are places to stay in Thurlestone village within walking distance of the beach.
Thurlestone Hotel
A family-run hotel above the beach with a spa, swimming pools and golf course.
Seaview House
A small bed and breakfast in the village, a short walk from the beach and pub.
Get in the water
Hire & lessons
Surf and paddle equipment is available from businesses a short drive from Thurlestone.
Discovery Surf School
Based at nearby Bigbury-on-Sea, offering lessons and kit hire around the South Hams coast.
Triocean Surf
Board and wetsuit hire, repairs and surf gear nearby in Churchstow.
After the beach
Eat & drink
You can walk into Thurlestone village for the pub or follow the coast to South Milton Sands for a beachfront meal.
The Village Inn
A village pub near the Thurlestone Hotel, serving food a short walk from the beach.
Beachhouse
A beachfront café and restaurant at South Milton Sands, good for brunch or sunset seafood.
Local perspective
Local notes
The tide changes the Thurlestone visit substantially. At low water a broad stretch of sand and the rockpools around the arch are exposed; at high water the beach narrows and the rock sits farther offshore.
The traditional Devon village sits behind the beach, and the coast path is worth following if you have the energy - Bantham in one direction, South Milton Sands and Beachhouse in the other. Parking can be tight on a sunny Saturday, so arrive before mid-morning for a full day.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Is Thurlestone beach dog friendly?
Dogs welcome all year at both Thurlestone Sands and the National Trust-managed South Milton Sands section. No seasonal ban.
What's the best tide for Thurlestone?
Low to mid tide is best. The beach is at its widest and the rockpools around Thurlestone Rock are exposed for exploring.
What is Thurlestone Rock?
It's a natural sandstone arch standing just offshore and visible at most tide states. The arch is the feature most closely associated with the beach.
Is it safe to swim at Thurlestone today?
Check the Environment Agency Swimfo profile and Safer Seas & Rivers Service before swimming for the latest water-quality information.
Where is the nearest parking?
The National Trust car park at Thurlestone is a short walk from the sand, with an overflow field used during busy summer periods.
Can you hire surfboards or paddleboards nearby?
Yes. Discovery Surf School and Triocean Surf both operate nearby and offer equipment hire as well as lessons.
Is Thurlestone beach pram or buggy friendly?
The approach from the National Trust car park is fairly flat, so getting there with a pram is fine. The beach is soft sand and uneven around the rocks, which is harder work on wheels.
What facilities are available at Thurlestone?
Thurlestone's nearest public toilets, including accessible facilities, are at South Milton Sands, around a 5 to 10-minute walk away, where there is also a café and shop.
Keep exploring
Nearby beaches
- Bantham
- Bigbury-on-Sea
- South Milton Sands
- Hope Cove