Hollicombe Beach - Image 1
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Hollicombe Beach

4.5
·184 reviews·, United Kingdom

A secluded haven with striking red cliffs, Hollicombe Beach offers a peaceful escape with sandy shores and rocky pools.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Low tide

Best for rock pools & beachcombing

CrowdLow
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Hollicombe Beach - Image 1

Hollicombe Beach

Best Time

Low tide

Best for rock pools & beachcombing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A secluded haven with striking red cliffs, Hollicombe Beach offers a peaceful escape with sandy shores and rocky pools.

4.5
(184 reviews)

"This scenic locale offers a red-sand beach & rocky shoreline, perfect for escaping the crowds."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌊 Access via Tunnel

Reach the beach through a charming tunnel, adding a unique element to your visit.

🐚 Sea Glass Hunting

Hollicombe is a great spot for finding sea glass, especially at low tide.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Striking Red Cliffs

Striking Red Cliffs

Entire beach

Dramatic red cliffs provide a stunning backdrop to the golden sands and blue sea.

Secluded Sandy Shores

Secluded Sandy Shores

Main beach area

Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere on this less commercialized stretch of sand, perfect for relaxation.

Rock Pools and Beachcombing

Rock Pools and Beachcombing

Rocky shoreline

Discover marine life and treasures at low tide among the interesting rock formations.

Scenic Coastal Walks

Scenic Coastal Walks

South West Coast Path access

Connect to the South West Coast Path for breathtaking views of the bay and coastline.

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Planning Your Visit

Escape the Crowds at Hollicombe Beach

Hollicombe Beach offers a tranquil escape from the usual tourist bustle. Its secluded nature means you can often enjoy the red sands and rocky shores with fewer people around, especially outside peak season. Plan your visit around low tide for the best beachcombing and exploring rock pools.

Pack Smart for a Peaceful Day

As a more natural and unspoiled beach, Hollicombe has limited facilities. Bring your own snacks, drinks, and any beach essentials you might need for a relaxing day. The access via a tunnel adds a unique charm, so be prepared for a short walk through it to reach the sands.

Best Times

When
Low tide
Why
Best for rock pools & beachcombing
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays outside school holidays
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset
Why
Spectacular views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

What a beautiful sight of our impressive steam train gliding by the colourful beach huts from Goodrington Beach, Paignton. 🚂🚂 What’s your favourite train memory? #SteamTrainAdventure #SouthDevonCoast #steamtrainsofbritain #train #trains #coast #coastal #steamengine #beach #broadsands #railway #railways #locomotive #fyp #escapeyoureveryday #fypage #torbay #torquay #paignton #brixham #englishrivier...
@theenglishriviera
716 likes • 63.4K views

🌊 Access via Tunnel

Reach the beach through a charming tunnel, adding a unique element to your visit. Instagram

🐚 Sea Glass Hunting

Hollicombe is a great spot for finding sea glass, especially at low tide. Instagram

📍Paignton beach #devon #paignton #Paigntonbeach #travels
@g_travels_
338 likes • 3.1K views
Tourist season is over, so we are back on our favourite beach. We had the whole beach to ourselves 🧡 #redfoxlab #redfoxlabrador #redfoxlabsofintagram #redfoxlabradorsofinstagram #foxredlab #foxredlabrador #foxredlabradorsofinstagram #puppylove #ilovemydog #ilovemylabrador #handsomedog #happydog #happydoggo #instadog #instadogs #instagramdog #dogfluencer #healthydog #labradorlove #lablove #dogsof...
bear_the_fox
35 likes • 347 views

🚶‍♀️ Coastal Path Access

Easily accessible from the South West Coast Path for scenic walks. Instagram

🐶 Dog-Friendly Charm

A lovely beach for dogs, with plenty of space to explore. InstagramReddit

Volume Up! 🔊🔊 Nothing beats the soothing sound of the sea. 🌊🌊 📍Hollicombe Beach …. #spring #coast #nature #sea #beach #calm #seabreeze #nature #landscape #sea #waves #unesco #geopark #southwestcoastpath #views #torbay #torquay #englishriviera #southdevon #devon #lovedevon
myriviera
84 likes • 2.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌊 Access via Tunnel

Reach the beach through a charming tunnel, adding a unique element to your visit. Instagram

🐚 Sea Glass Hunting

Hollicombe is a great spot for finding sea glass, especially at low tide. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Coastal Path Access

Easily accessible from the South West Coast Path for scenic walks. Instagram

🐶 Dog-Friendly Charm

A lovely beach for dogs, with plenty of space to explore. InstagramReddit

🧺 Pack Your Essentials

Limited facilities mean bringing your own food and drinks is recommended. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(184 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Hollicombe Beach is widely praised as a peaceful, scenic hidden gem with striking red cliffs and a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors appreciate its secluded nature, making it ideal for relaxing walks, beachcombing, and enjoying nature away from crowds. While facilities are limited, its natural beauty and unique access via a tunnel are significant draws.

"Tucked away between Paignton and Torquay, Hollicombe Beach is a peaceful hidden gem that's perfect if you're looking to escape the crowds. The striking red cliffs and golden sand make it incredibly scenic, especially at sunset. Access is easy via a sloped path, and there's a tunnel that adds a bit of character to the entrance.

It's ideal for relaxing walks, beachcombing, or a quiet picnic. Not overly commercialized, so it feels more natural and unspoiled. There are no major facilities on the beach itself, so it's worth bringing what you need for the day.

Great for families, couples, or solo visitors who appreciate a calmer beach vibe. Just be mindful of the tide, as it can come in quite far. Definitely worth a visit if you're in the Paignton area!"

AsabaYT

"Hallicombe Beach in Torquay is an absolute gem! The stunning red cliffs create a breathtaking backdrop against the clear blue waters, making it a perfect spot for relaxing and soaking up the scenery. The beach is clean, well-maintained, and ideal for both sunbathing and leisurely strolls along the shore. The calm, shallow waters are great for swimming, and it’s a peaceful escape from the busier nearby beaches. Whether you're looking for tranquility or a picturesque spot to enjoy with family and friends, Hallicombe Beach is a must-visit!"

Ganith Malage (Sakaarson)

"I can't believe I've never been here before. It's not the biggest of beaches, but there is sand. Awesome views of the coastline and out to sea. Apparantly it's dog friendly too which is handy to some. Perfect for kids who want to collect shells. Seems to be a pill box/army bunker in the hills looking oit to sea(i maybe wrong).Perfect location for sun all day long! I really do recommend this place. And to get here you go through some beautiful well maintained gardens/park."

jon_the_explorer

What People Like

Beautiful red cliffs
Peaceful and secluded
Great for beachcombing

What People Dislike

Limited facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hollicombe Beach is located between Paignton and Torquay. Access is often described as being through a tunnel from Hollicombe Park or via the South West Coast Path. Instagram+1 Some visitors mention it's a short walk from nearby parking areas.

While specific parking details can vary, visitors often access the beach via nearby parks or coastal paths, suggesting parking might be available in adjacent areas like Hollicombe Park or along the coast road. Instagram

Information on direct public transport to the beach is limited, but it's likely accessible via bus routes serving Paignton and Torquay, followed by a walk or short taxi ride. TikTok

Yes, Hollicombe Beach is perfect for walking, especially along the sandy shores or connecting to the South West Coast Path for more extensive coastal exploration. Instagram+1

The beach features a mix of sand and rocky areas, with striking red cliffs. Access is generally via a sloped path and a tunnel. InstagramReddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Hollicombe Beach is a public beach and does not typically have an entrance fee. Enjoying the natural beauty is free of charge. Instagram

As a natural beach, Hollicombe is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment. Instagram

Hollicombe Beach is known for being less commercialized, meaning facilities are limited. It's advisable to bring your own provisions. Reddit

No advance booking is necessary for visiting Hollicombe Beach as it's a public access area. Instagram

Access is via a sloped path and a tunnel, which may present challenges for some individuals with mobility issues. It's best to assess the terrain upon arrival. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy relaxing walks, beachcombing, exploring rock pools, sunbathing, and picnicking. It's also a great spot for photography due to the scenic red cliffs. InstagramReddit+1

The calm, shallow waters are often described as great for swimming, making it a pleasant experience for visitors. Reddit

Yes, Hollicombe Beach is dog-friendly, making it a great destination for pet owners. InstagramReddit

Visiting during low tide is ideal for exploring rock pools and beachcombing. Sunsets are also spectacular, offering beautiful views. InstagramReddit

Its striking red cliffs, secluded atmosphere, and access via a tunnel make Hollicombe Beach a unique and memorable destination. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The red cliffs, golden sand, and the sea provide stunning photographic subjects. Sunrises and sunsets offer particularly dramatic light. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely. The combination of cliffs, coastline, and sea makes it a prime location for landscape photographers. Instagram+1

Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the red cliffs still offer great contrast. TikTok

Drone regulations can vary. It's always best to check local bylaws and guidelines before flying a drone over any beach or coastal area. TikTok

The rock pools at low tide, sea glass, and shells offer excellent opportunities for macro and detail photography. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hollicombe Beach is a wonderful choice for families seeking a calmer beach experience. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for younger children to paddle and play safely. At low tide, the rock pools offer a fantastic opportunity for kids to discover small sea creatures, making for an engaging and educational outing. The sandy areas are perfect for building sandcastles. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are minimal. Reddit+1

The unique access through a tunnel can be an exciting part of the adventure for children. The beach's less crowded nature means parents can relax a bit more, keeping an eye on their little ones without the overwhelming presence of large crowds. It’s a great spot for a peaceful picnic and a day of simple seaside fun. Instagram

🐶 Dog Lovers

Hollicombe Beach is a fantastic destination for dog owners, as it's dog-friendly year-round. Your furry friends will love the freedom to run and play on the sandy shores and explore the coastline. The secluded nature of the beach means dogs can often have plenty of space to themselves, especially outside of peak times. InstagramReddit

It's a perfect spot for a long walk with your dog, either along the beach itself or by connecting to the South West Coast Path. The varied terrain, from sand to rocks, provides interesting exploration opportunities for your canine companion. Just be mindful of other beachgoers and ensure your dog is under control, especially near the water. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers

For solo travelers or anyone seeking tranquility, Hollicombe Beach is an absolute gem. Its secluded location and peaceful atmosphere make it the ideal place to unwind, reflect, and enjoy the natural beauty of the coast. You can often find yourself with large stretches of the beach to yourself, offering a true sense of escape. InstagramReddit

Spend your time beachcombing, reading a book, or simply listening to the waves. The scenic views of the red cliffs and the sea are incredibly calming. Connecting to the South West Coast Path offers opportunities for invigorating solo walks with breathtaking coastal vistas. It’s a place to recharge and enjoy your own company in a beautiful setting. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Hollicombe Beach: A Natural Haven

Hollicombe Beach is celebrated for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, setting it apart from more developed tourist spots. The most striking feature is its vibrant red cliffs, which create a dramatic contrast against the golden sand and the blue of the sea. This unique geological backdrop makes it a photographer's dream and a visually captivating destination for all visitors. The beach itself offers a mix of sandy stretches and rocky areas, particularly noticeable at low tide when rock pools become exposed, teeming with small marine life. InstagramReddit

Accessing Hollicombe Beach is part of its charm. Many visitors mention entering via a tunnel, adding an element of adventure and discovery. This secluded feel is a major draw for those seeking to escape the crowds. It's an ideal spot for leisurely walks, beachcombing for shells and sea glass, or simply relaxing and enjoying the soothing sound of the waves. The beach is also connected to the renowned South West Coast Path, offering opportunities for longer hikes with panoramic views of the bay. Instagram+2

While the lack of extensive facilities contributes to its unspoiled character, it means visitors should come prepared. Bringing your own food, drinks, and beach essentials is highly recommended for a comfortable day out. The beach is also dog-friendly, making it a popular choice for pet owners looking for a scenic spot to explore with their companions. InstagramReddit

The Charm of the English Riviera's Hidden Gems

Hollicombe Beach is a prime example of the hidden gems that make the English Riviera so special. While Paignton and Torquay are well-known destinations, Hollicombe offers a more peaceful and intimate beach experience. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and connect with nature, away from the hustle and bustle of larger seaside towns. The scenic beauty is consistently praised, with many reviewers highlighting the picturesque views and the calming effect of the sea. InstagramReddit

This beach is particularly appealing to those who appreciate a less commercialized environment. Instead of rows of shops and amusements, visitors find a more natural landscape. The red cliffs are a recurring theme in descriptions, providing a unique visual identity. The calm and shallow waters make it suitable for a gentle swim, and the rocky sections are perfect for exploring at low tide. It’s a destination that appeals to a wide range of visitors, from families looking for a quiet day out to couples seeking a romantic spot. Reddit+1

The access via a tunnel is often mentioned as a quirky and memorable feature, adding to the sense of discovery. For those who enjoy walking, its connection to the South West Coast Path is a significant advantage, allowing for exploration of the stunning Devon coastline. Hollicombe Beach embodies the essence of a tranquil seaside escape, offering a refreshing alternative to more crowded tourist hotspots. Instagram+1

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