Exmouth is a seaside town in east Devon, located where the River Exe meets the English Channel. It developed as a port and later became one of Devon’s earliest seaside resorts. The town is known for its long sandy beach, estuary setting and access to the Jurassic Coast.
About Exmouth
Exmouth is arranged along a wide seafront, with a promenade running parallel to the beach and a town centre set slightly inland. The layout is relatively open and flat compared to other Devon coastal towns. The marina and dock area are located near the estuary, where leisure boats and small vessels are moored.
The River Exe estuary shapes much of the town’s character, providing sheltered water conditions alongside the more exposed open coast. Exmouth is known for water sports, including sailing, windsurfing and paddleboarding. Across the estuary lies Dawlish Warren, while the town of Budleigh Salterton is located further east along the coast.
Beaches in Exmouth
Exmouth has a long stretch of sandy coastline, with both sheltered estuary areas and more exposed sea-facing sections.
Exmouth Beach – Long sandy beach extending from the town centre, gently sloping and suitable for families, swimming and walking.
Dawlish Warren Beach – Sandy spit across the estuary, backed by dunes, sheltered in parts and used for walking and wildlife observation.
Orcombe Point – Pebble and rock shoreline marking the start of the Jurassic Coast, more exposed and used for walking rather than swimming.
Sandy Bay – Sandy beach east of Exmouth, partially sheltered by cliffs, accessed via steps and popular for quieter visits.
Things to Do in Exmouth
The town offers a mix of beach activities, estuary-based recreation and access to coastal and natural areas.
Exmouth Seafront and Promenade – Main coastal area with open space, walking routes and access to the beach and facilities.
Exmouth Marina – Dock and marina area with moorings, waterside views and access to boat trips and sailing activities.
Water Sports on the Exe Estuary – Activities including sailing, windsurfing and paddleboarding, supported by local clubs and hire centres.
South West Coast Path – Walking route passing through Exmouth, continuing along the Jurassic Coast towards Budleigh Salterton.
Exe Estuary Trails – Network of walking and cycling routes following the estuary, linking Exmouth with Topsham and Exeter.
Visiting Exmouth
The town is easily accessible by road via the A376 from Exeter and has a railway station with regular services to Exeter and connections beyond. Parking is available in several car parks near the seafront and town centre, with additional spaces during peak periods.
Facilities are well developed, including accommodation, shops, cafes and leisure services. The town is relatively easy to navigate due to its flat layout and open streets.
The best time to visit is between late spring and early autumn, when conditions are suitable for beach use and water sports. During summer, the seafront and main car parks can become busy. The open coastal location means weather conditions can be changeable, particularly outside settled periods.