Short answer: Meadfoot east of the harbour is the locals' beach and much quieter than the main sands — but the parking goes by nine. Babbacombe is reached by cliff railway or a steep road. Maidencombe is the quietest, down a long flight of steps.
Torre Abbey Sands is central, flat, sandy and has plenty of parking along the front — all the reasons it is the first place people go and the first place that fills. It is the cleanest part of central Torquay and it is not where you go for space.
East of the harbour and the locals' choice. Reviewers describe a true hidden gem with a peaceful, relaxed vibe, perfect if you are looking to escape the crowds — mixed sand and pebble with rocky outcrops, beach huts, a café and calm clean water.
The catch is unambiguous: parking is very limited, the on-street spaces are gone by nine in the morning, and there is no overflow. This is a beach you go to early or not at all.
Small shingle beach below the cliffs with unusually clear water and rock pools, and reviewers repeatedly describe it as much quieter than Torquay town centre with a more relaxed feel. The road down is steep with sharp bends — park on Babbacombe Downs and take the cliff railway instead.
Note that dogs are not allowed on Oddicombe, the neighbouring beach at the bottom of the railway, at any time of year.
The quietest of the four, north of Torquay. A secluded cove down a long flight of steep steps that rules it out for many people — which is exactly what keeps it empty. Reviewers describe it as a lovely hidden-away beach, better for adults and teenagers than small children, and dramatic out of season when the sea is rough.
Small clifftop car park at around £8 a day, so arrive early. Seasonal café, paddleboard hire, and a good pub within walking distance.
The general rule on this coast: ten minutes of walking removes ninety per cent of people. Almost every crowded Devon beach empties out within a short walk of the car park, because most visitors will not carry a windbreak further than they have to.
If the beaches are all full, Cockington Country Park is free, inland, and has enough acreage to absorb a crowd — a thatched village, woodland walks, lakes and two tea rooms.
See the full Torquay guide, filtered by who's with you.
Plan your day near Torquay →