Sandy Bay Beach is located on the South Devon coast to the east of Exmouth, near Orcombe Point and the start of the Jurassic Coast. It lies below high red sandstone cliffs and forms part of a relatively undeveloped stretch of coastline. The beach is situated close to a holiday park, which influences access, but retains a quieter character than the main Exmouth seafront.
The beach is mainly sandy with some areas of pebbles and rock, particularly towards the edges and at higher tide levels. It is moderately sized and becomes wider at low tide when more sand is exposed. The cliffs behind the beach are a notable feature, forming part of the Jurassic Coast and displaying visible layers of sediment. The beach is known for its natural setting and geological interest rather than for extensive facilities.
Access is more limited than at nearby beaches. The main route is via the holiday park, with restricted public access and parking options. Some visitors reach the beach on foot via coastal paths from Exmouth or nearby areas, though these routes can be uneven and involve gradients. There are limited facilities available, primarily associated with the holiday park, and visitors should be prepared for a more basic level of service if accessing independently.
Sandy Bay Beach is best suited to walking, exploring and visiting as part of a coastal walk. It can be used for swimming in calm conditions, though there is no lifeguard cover and the open position means conditions can change. It is not a primary surfing beach and offers limited space for traditional beach activities at high tide. The beach is most usable at low tide when the sandy area is at its widest. It can be visited throughout the year, with conditions influenced by weather and access limitations.