About Islandeering
Hi and welcome to Islandeering Islandeering is for people who want adventure in Britain’s wild blue spaces – our rivers, coast, lakes, canals and islands. You will find amazing walks, paddles and swims in the UK’s most special places, those recognised for outstanding natural beauty, incredible geology or special and abundant wildlife.
More About UsWe continuously find new islands, rivers, lochs, canals and coast to walk, SUP and swim in and meet plenty of great folks along the way. Join our community to get new routes and adventures, latest blogs and news by using the email box below. Tune in also to our Facebook and Instagram pages to see where we are going next.
Devon, with its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant outdoor scene, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. In this guide, we’ll uncover the best spots for paddleboarding in Devon, explore its stunning coastal paths, and reveal the secrets to unforgettable adventures on Devon’s islands.
Paddleboarding in Devon
Paddleboarding in Devon is a thrilling experience, with its picturesque coastline, tranquil estuaries, and serene lakes providing a range of options for all skill levels. North Devon offers exceptional coastal paddling opportunities. Lee Bay and Coombe Martin are popular spots with stunning geology and beaches. The Taw and Torridge Estuaries near Barnstaple and Bideford are excellent for exploring tidal waters surrounded by wildlife. South Devon is equally spectacular. The English Riviera, including Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham, has incredible coastal geology to explore within the UNESCO Global Geopark. Dartmouth’s beautiful River Dart offers a chance to paddle past quaint villages, wooded valleys, and the historic Dartmouth Castle. Salcombe, with its crystal-clear estuary, provides numerous paddling routes and secluded beaches such as Sunny Cove and Mill Bay. The sheltered waters of the Exe Estuary, near Exeter, are another highlight, perfect for beginners and experienced paddleboarders alike.
East Devon features the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with awe-inspiring cliffs and rock formations. Sidmouth and Beer are great places to launch, with opportunities to paddle beneath dramatic cliffs and explore sea caves. Plymouth offers access to circumnavigate Drake’s Island, or explore the tidal creeks nearby. Inland, Devon boasts serene lakes such as Roadford Lake and Wimbleball Lake, both excellent for beginner paddleboarders and those looking for a relaxing day on the water.
Islands off the Devon Coast
Devon is home to enchanting islands, which are great for walking and exploring.
- Lundy Island, situated in the Bristol Channel, is a must-visit for its rugged beauty and abundant wildlife. Accessible by ferry from Ilfracombe or Bideford, it offers excellent opportunities for walking, wildlife spotting, and paddleboarding along its crystal-clear waters.
- Drakes Island, situated in Plymouth Sound, is a historic and picturesque island that boasts a rich maritime heritage, stunning views of the surrounding waters, and opportunities to explore its fascinating fortifications and natural beauty.
- Burgh Island, near Bigbury-on-Sea, is a unique tidal island connected to the mainland by a sandbar at low tide. A paddleboarding excursion around Burgh Island reveals its secluded beaches and striking cliffs.
Walking Devon’s Coastal Paths
The South West Coast Path in Devon offers unparalleled views and access to some of the county’s hidden gems.
- North Devon’s Coast: Explore the dramatic Hartland Peninsula with its rugged cliffs and remote beauty. Morte Point, near Woolacombe, offers a chance to see seals basking on the rocks.
- South Devon’s Coast: The Salcombe to Hope Cove walk is a favorite, combining picturesque beaches, charming villages, and panoramic views of the sea.
- East Devon’s Jurassic Coast: Walk from Beer to Branscombe for stunning vistas and fascinating geology, or hike the Sidmouth to Budleigh Salterton path for a mix of coastal and countryside scenery.
Wild Swimming and Island Adventures
For wild swimming enthusiasts, Devon offers stunning locations such as Sharrah Pool on Dartmoor, the River Dart’s clear waters, and the secluded bays near Salcombe and Torquay. For a unique adventure, consider a swim around Burgh Island or in the sheltered coves of Lundy.
For outdoor adventurers seeking to explore Devon’s paddle boarding spots, swims, coastal walks, and island-hopping opportunities, this enchanting county has it all. Find your next outdoor adventure in Devon by using these guides for inspiration and to plan ahead, checking local weather and tide information, and ensuring you have the right equipment for a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re looking for a solo paddle board session at sunset or an island-hopping adventure Devon’s outdoor activities will exceed your expectations.
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Where to go Paddleboarding in Devon
We have shared some of our favourite routes below but more can be found in our book “Paddleboarding South West” or on our Routes Map
Top 5 Places to Paddle in Devon
The county of Devon has some wonderful blue space with plenty of amazing places to SUP. From wild coastlines and secluded beaches to estuaries, lakes [...]
Lee Bay Devon | SUP Route of the Week
A beautiful bay hugged by soaring cliffs with numerous rock gullies and secluded coves for family adventures. Located between busy Ilfracombe and Woolacombe and once [...]
Porlock Weir Paddle | SUP Route of the Week
Sheltered paddling in the ancient harbour of this highly picturesque coastal hamlet with scenic trips in the bay and high tide exploration of beautiful salt [...]
Salcombe to Southpool | SUP Route of the Week
Leave behind the bustle of Salcombe and the busy main Kingsbridge Estuary and escape up tranquil Southpool Creek with its hidden inn. This is route [...]
Plymouth Mount Batten | SUP Route of the Week
Explore caves, forts, and wooded cliffs at the eastern edge of Plymouth Sound after launching from the fortified Mount Batten peninsula. This is route 45/107 [...]
Paddleboarding-Whitford to Seaton
Long, gentle paddle, following the reed-edged and willow-lined river Axe down to a fishing hamlet and the sea
Paddleboarding-Exeter Canal and River Exe Loop
Paddle the Exeter Canal Loop – a gentle route linking the Exeter Ship Canal and River Exe, with historic quays, water meadows, locks and riverside [...]
Paddleboarding-Birmingham Kings Norton
Cruise between chocolate heaven and this city’s industrial heart along the Worcester & Birmingham Canal and BCN Old Main Line where brick wharves and the [...]
Walks in Devon
We have shared some of our favourite routes below but more can be found in our on our Routes Map
