Paignton is a seaside town in south Devon, located on the central section of Tor Bay between Torquay and Brixham. It developed as a traditional holiday resort during the Victorian period and remains focused on tourism. The town is known for its long sandy beach, promenade and family-oriented attractions.
About Paignton
Paignton is arranged along a relatively flat coastal area, with the seafront forming the main focus. The town centre sits just behind the promenade, with shops, accommodation and services concentrated within walking distance of the beach. Unlike nearby Brixham, Paignton does not have a working harbour, although there is a small pier extending into the bay.
The seafront includes a promenade, green spaces and leisure facilities, creating a typical resort layout. The town is known for its accessibility and family-oriented environment. Nearby areas include Torquay to the north, which offers a larger town centre, and Brixham to the south, known for its harbour and fishing industry.
Beaches in Paignton
Paignton has several sandy beaches along Tor Bay, generally sheltered and suitable for swimming and family use.
Paignton Sands – Long sandy beach along the seafront, gently sloping and sheltered, widely used for swimming and family activities.
Preston Sands – Sandy beach north of Paignton, backed by a promenade, suitable for walking, swimming and general seaside use.
Goodrington Sands – Series of sandy beaches south of the town, partly sheltered, with areas suitable for families and water sports.
Hollicombe Beach – Smaller sandy and shingle beach between Paignton and Torquay, more enclosed and quieter than main beaches.
Things to Do in Paignton
The town offers a range of traditional seaside attractions and nearby coastal activities.
Paignton Pier – Seafront pier with amusement arcades and views across Tor Bay, forming a central attraction along the promenade.
Paignton Zoo – Large zoo located inland, housing a wide range of species and set within landscaped grounds.
Dartmouth Steam Railway – Heritage railway running from Paignton to Kingswear, offering coastal views and access to Dartmouth.
Goodrington Park – Seafront park with open green space, boating lake and recreational facilities near the beach.
South West Coast Path – Walking route linking the town with Torquay and Brixham, passing through coastal sections and viewpoints.
Visiting Paignton
The town is easily accessible by road via the A380 and A385, with direct routes into the town centre. It also has a railway station with regular services to Exeter and beyond, making it one of the more accessible coastal towns in Devon. Parking is available in several car parks near the seafront and town centre.
Facilities are extensive, including accommodation, shops, cafes and family attractions. The flat layout makes it easier to navigate than steeper coastal towns, with most areas accessible on foot.
The best time to visit is between late spring and early autumn, when weather conditions are suitable for beach use. During peak summer periods, the seafront and main attractions can become busy. The sheltered nature of Tor Bay generally provides calmer sea conditions compared to more exposed parts of the Devon coast.