Real, curated ideas for Bigbury-on-Sea — the sea tractor, Burgh Island, the sands and where to eat, filtered by who's actually with you.
Bigbury-on-Sea exists because of what sits just offshore. Burgh Island is joined to the mainland by a sandbar that covers at high tide, and when it does, a sea tractor — a genuinely strange vehicle on stilts — carries people across through the water. For about two pounds it is the most memorable few minutes available anywhere on this coast with children.
The beach itself is properly good: wide flat sand with a shallow incline, RNLI lifeguards, an accessible ramp down, toilets, a café and a large paid car park. Two sections allow dogs. It faces west, which makes it one of the best sunset beaches in Devon.
Two practical warnings. Phone signal is poor and the car park pays by app, which catches people out constantly — bring cash or expect a fight. And check the tide times before you walk over to the island, because the two tides meeting cut the causeway off faster than people expect.
Listings last checked: September 2026
Wide flat sand with a shallow incline, RNLI lifeguards, an accessible ramp, toilets and a café — and the sandbar out to Burgh Island at low tide. Dogs allowed on two sections. West-facing, so the sunsets are the best in the South Hams. Paid parking, app only, and the signal is poor.
The wider bay and clifftop viewpoint, with grey cliffs west and Burgh Island in front — the highest-rated spot in the area. Sheltered sections of the bay are safe for swimming with lifeguards on standby. Large paid car park directly above.
A 14th-century pub on Burgh Island itself, and the reason most people cross. Quirky interior, good beer, and a garden watching the sea tractor come and go. Outdoor drinks come in branded plastic with a £2 deposit, and it is priced for the location.
The beach café in the lower car park, with sea views, plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and a varied menu including a well-liked vegetarian cooked breakfast. Careful with allergies. It is a beach café rather than a restaurant, and service slows when busy.
Over at Hope Cove, fifteen minutes down the coast — burgers, crab focaccia, pizza and a good IPA list across two floors with sea views. Relaxed surf-shack feel, dog friendly, open until midnight. Much better out of season when it is not rammed.
At Challaborough, next door to the holiday park, with a beach-front position and a large menu. Reviews are polarised — the grills and steaks come out well, much of the rest does not. Convenient rather than a destination; check what is actually available before ordering.