Saltern Cove
A tranquil, unspoiled cove on the South Devon coast, perfect for rock pooling, snorkeling, and coastal walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for exploring rock pools
Saltern Cove
Best Time
Best for exploring rock pools
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil, unspoiled cove on the South Devon coast, perfect for rock pooling, snorkeling, and coastal walks.
"Beautiful hidden gem of a beach. Dog friendly too!!"
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Steps and rocks can be steep and slippery. Good grip is essential for safe access and exploration. :athletic_shoe:
🌊 Check Tide Times
Low tide is ideal for exploring rock pools and accessing sandy areas. High tide can make access difficult. :ocean:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rock Pools and Marine Life
Saltern Cove
Discover vibrant rock pools teeming with life at low tide. Perfect for crabbing and snorkeling in clear waters.
South West Coastal Path Views
Above Saltern Cove
Enjoy breathtaking coastal vistas and scenic walks along the South West Coastal Path, with views of the sea and surrounding coves.
Fossil Hunting Opportunities
Saltern Cove
Explore the geodiversity of Saltern Cove, known for its fossils. A unique spot for those interested in natural history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Saltern Cove
Accessing This Hidden Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Steps and rocks can be steep and slippery. Good grip is essential for safe access and exploration. :athletic_shoe:
🌊 Check Tide Times
Low tide is ideal for exploring rock pools and accessing sandy areas. High tide can make access difficult. :ocean:
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and observing marine life. :fish:
🐾 Dog-Friendly Beach
Saltern Cove welcomes dogs, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry friend. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Steps and rocks can be steep and slippery. Good grip is essential for safe access and exploration. :athletic_shoe:
🌊 Check Tide Times
Low tide is ideal for exploring rock pools and accessing sandy areas. High tide can make access difficult. :ocean:
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and observing marine life. :fish:
🐾 Dog-Friendly Beach
Saltern Cove welcomes dogs, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry friend. :dog:
🚶♀️ Coastal Path Access
Easily accessible via the South West Coastal Path for stunning views. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Saltern Cove is lauded as a beautiful, unspoiled hidden gem, perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Visitors appreciate its clear waters for snorkeling and the fascinating rock pools revealed at low tide. While access involves steep, slippery steps, the peaceful, 'untouristy' atmosphere and dog-friendly nature make it a rewarding destination.
"Beautiful hidden gem of a beach. Dog friendly too!!"
jon_the_explorer
"A fantastic walk, not many people ventured there on that cold, cold day. Perfection"
Eva Hyatt
"Access is via the steam train bridge and you can easily access Oyster and Saltern Coves via steps. The steps down to Saltern Cove can be slippery and are steep. The beach is mostly rock with some sand. When tide is low you can scramble over the rock but it is extremely slippery so please be careful! A very peaceful location with great fishing spots at high and low tide."
Dominic Squibb
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Saltern Cove is accessible via the South West Coastal Path, often starting from Goodrington Sands or Broadsands. You can also reach it by walking from Goodrington Sands, passing under the steam train bridge. Be aware that the steps down to the cove can be steep and slippery. 
It's considered a hidden gem, tucked between Goodrington and Broadsands. Look for signs for the South West Coastal Path, and you'll likely find it on your route.
There isn't direct car access to Saltern Cove itself. The nearest parking is likely at Goodrington Sands or Broadsands beach car parks, followed by a walk.
Walking the coastal path is highly recommended. You can explore from Goodrington to Broadsands and even further to Brixham for a full day of scenic exploration.
You can take a bus or train to Paignton and then walk or take a local bus towards Goodrington Sands, from where you can access the coastal path.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Saltern Cove is a natural cove and is free to access. There are no admission fees.
Saltern Cove is accessible at all times, as it's a natural outdoor location. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
If you park at nearby Goodrington Sands or Broadsands, there will be parking fees associated with those car parks.
Saltern Cove is a natural, unspoiled cove, so there are no dedicated facilities like toilets or cafes directly on the beach. You'll find these at nearby Goodrington Sands.
Saltern Cove is part of the UNESCO-endorsed English Riviera Geopark, highlighting its geological significance.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The beach is a mix of rock and sand. At low tide, it reveals rock pools perfect for exploring. Be mindful that the rocks can be very slippery.
Yes, the water is often clear and calm, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling, especially when the tide is right.
Popular activities include exploring rock pools, snorkeling, crabbing, photography, sketching, and enjoying peaceful walks along the coast.
It's generally considered a less crowded, 'untouristy' spot compared to larger beaches, especially on weekdays or outside peak season. +1
You might spot various marine life in the rock pools, and the area is known for its birdlife.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning seascapes, the intricate details of rock pools, and the dramatic coastal path views. Sunsets here can also be spectacular.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and flattering light for coastal photography. Low tide also offers unique compositions.
The unique rock formations, the clear water, and the coastal path itself offer great photographic subjects. You might also spot the Dartmouth Steam Railway's 'Braveheart' passing by.
A wide-angle lens is great for seascapes, while a macro lens can capture the details in rock pools. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the sea and sky.
Always check local regulations regarding drone usage in coastal and geopark areas before flying. Respect wildlife and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are no facilities directly at the cove, nearby Goodrington Sands offers amenities like toilets and cafes, making it a good base for a family outing. Packing a picnic and enjoying it with a view of the cove can be a memorable experience. Remember to bring buckets and spades for rock pooling fun!
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
+1 You can easily incorporate it into a longer hike between Paignton and Brixham, or enjoy a shorter, focused exploration of the cove itself. The relatively 'untouristy' nature of the cove means you can often find a quiet spot to simply enjoy the sounds of the sea and the coastal scenery. Be prepared for the access, as the steep steps require a reasonable level of fitness. The opportunity for snorkeling or simply enjoying the tranquility makes it a rewarding destination for those seeking a more independent and nature-focused experience.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog under control, especially near the water and on the potentially slippery steps. Always clean up after your pet to help keep this beautiful spot pristine for everyone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Saltern Cove's Natural Beauty
The surrounding area is part of the English Riviera Geopark, a UNESCO-endorsed site that celebrates the region's unique geological heritage. This means you're exploring an area with significant natural history, including opportunities to discover fossils. The South West Coastal Path runs nearby, offering stunning panoramic views of the coastline and the opportunity to explore neighboring coves like Oyster Cove and Armchair Cove.
+2While it's a peaceful escape, accessing Saltern Cove requires a bit of effort. Visitors often mention the steep and potentially slippery steps leading down to the beach. Therefore, wearing appropriate footwear is crucial for a safe and enjoyable visit. Despite the access challenges, the unspoiled, 'untouristy' nature of Saltern Cove makes it a rewarding destination for those seeking a quieter coastal experience.
The Appeal of Saltern Cove for Photographers and Artists
+1Many visitors enjoy the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere of Saltern Cove, which is conducive to creative pursuits. The lack of large crowds means you can spend time observing and capturing the nuances of the environment without feeling rushed. The geodiversity of the area, with its fossil-rich rocks, adds another layer of interest for those looking to document the natural history of the region.
+1When planning a photography trip, checking the tide times is essential. Low tide reveals the rock pools and allows for closer exploration of the rocky shoreline, offering unique compositions. The steep access means carrying heavier camera gear requires careful planning, but the stunning results are often well worth the effort.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit