Man Sands Beach

You’ll find zero facilities at the secluded Man Sands beach and with access by foot only, it’s a real hidden gem to explore.

Man Sands Beach is a stunning location located in the picturesque coastal town of Devon, England. With its golden sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, it is the perfect spot for a summer day out or a relaxing weekend getaway.

A popular but secluded destination, Man Sands Beach has plenty to offer visitors of all ages. From swimming and sunbathing to kayaking and paddleboarding, there are many fun activities to enjoy on the beach, but you’ll find zero facilities here so you need to bring your own equipment. The beach is also ideal for family picnics and romantic walks, and forming part of the South Devon coast path there are several scenic trails nearby for those who enjoy hiking.

Be sure to explore the Man Sands caves at low tide

The caves at Man Sands Beach are a breathtaking natural wonder carved into the limestone cliffs and offer a unique and mysterious environment that is both fascinating and awe-inspiring, but only accessible at low tide. The caves themselves are dark and damp, with rough walls that are carved into strange and intricate patterns by centuries of erosion. Exploring the caves is an adventure in itself, with winding tunnels and hidden chambers to discover. In some places, sunlight filters through narrow crevices in the rocks, casting a magical glow over the cave walls. In other places, the caves are pitch black, with only the sound of dripping water and the occasional flutter of bat wings to break the silence.

Despite their natural beauty, the caves at Man Sands Beach also have a dark and mysterious history. Rumors of smugglers and pirates using the caves as hiding places have circulated for centuries, and visitors may find themselves wondering what secrets lie hidden within the depths of these ancient caverns.

You'll find breathtaking cliffs and rock formations around Man Sands beach, Devon

Man Sands Beach is well-known for its natural beauty, which is why it attracts thousands of tourists every year, although it never seems to be busy here. Access to the beach is by foot only and the reason why it never seems crowded, but take note those with poor mobility as this beach may not be suitable. The beach is surrounded by breathtaking cliffs and rock formations, which make it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The beach is also a great place to spot wildlife, including seabirds, dolphins, and seals.

One of the things that sets Man Sands Beach apart from other beaches in the area is its secluded location. The beach is tucked away in a quiet cove, which makes it a peaceful and serene spot to relax and unwind. The lack of crowds and noise also makes it a great place for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Looking down on Man Sands from the South West Coast Path - note the wetland to the right, a twitcher's paradise

In recent years, there have been significant changes to the area under the management of the National Trust. Previously, the shingle beach was protected by sea defences, which were removed to allow the sea to advance further inland. As a result, a wetland has formed with standing water and reedbeds. Additionally, the old temporary bird hide, which was once a simple "blind," has been replaced with a permanent structure. Furthermore, in 2019, a causeway was constructed across the reserve, effectively splitting it into two sections.

In conclusion, Man Sands Beach is a hidden gem on the Devon coast that offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience, it’s one of our favorite beaches and we often walk here from Brixham along the coast path. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, explore the natural beauty of the area, or simply relax in peace and quiet, this stunning beach is the perfect destination. So pack your bags and head to Man Sands Beach for an unforgettable adventure!