On the water
The coast here is shingle plus sand under red cliffs, which makes for clear water rather than the murk you get off a sandy shelf. Swimming, paddling, rock pools at low tide, then boats out of Exmouth if you would rather stay dry.
One thing worth knowing: the sea in September is often warmer than it is at midsummer. Autumn swimming here is a genuine pleasure rather than an endurance test.
Beaches and boats
Sidmouth
Sand plus shingle below the esplanade, with the town behind you. Twenty minutes on the 899 from our gates.
Weston Mouth
A remote shingle cove reached down the coast path, with a stream running across it. One of the most peaceful spots on this stretch.
Stuart Line Cruises, Exmouth
Running from Exmouth Marina since 1968, along the Jurassic Coast plus up the River Exe. Dogs travel free. Thirty-five minutes from the park.
Sea Fest, Sidmouth
A day given over to the sea plus the people who work on it, held in May.
Stay by the coast
Three miles from Sidmouth, with the Jurassic Coast on the doorstep.