South Devon beach guide
Goodrington
A broad sandy beach in Paignton with family facilities, watersports and different dog rules on its north and south sections.
Plan a visit to Goodrington
A year in the South Devon sea
SOUTH DEVON'S SEA TEMPERATURE CYCLE
Twelve monthly averages from Salcombe. One slow seasonal rise and fall.
The Atlantic through the year
The sea takes its time
Around Salcombe, the long-term average is coolest in March and warmest in August.
The water keeps cooling after the shortest days, then holds onto summer warmth into September. It is a slow, smooth cycle rather than a switch between seasons.
7.1°C
average seasonal rise
March 10.4° to August 17.5°
Average monthly sea temperature
A year in the water
Cool blue winter water gradually gives way to warmer teal through summer, before the curve eases back down.
Cooler
Warmer
- Jan 11.3°C
- Feb 10.7°C
- Mar 10.4°C
- Apr 10.9°C
- May 12.4°C
- Jun 15.0°C
- Jul 17.2°C
- Aug 17.5°C
- Sep 16.2°C
- Oct 15.2°C
- Nov 13.9°C
- Dec 12.5°C
Use the averages
Turn the curve into a beach day
Temperature is only one part of the plan. Check the tide, access, lifeguards and local notes for these South Devon beaches.
South Devon beach guide
Broadsands
A sheltered sandy beach with a long promenade, a large nearby car park and useful facilities for a straightforward beach day.
Plan a visit to Broadsands
South Devon beach guide
Elberry Cove
A quiet shingle cove reached by a coast-path walk from Broadsands, with year-round dog access and no toilets or refreshments.
Plan a visit to Elberry Cove