Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton

Experience the enchanting charm of the Jurassic Coast on this stretch of the South West Coast Path, traversing from the vibrant seaside town of Exmouth to the tranquil beauty of Budleigh Salterton. This section boasts stunning panoramas, unique geology and charming seaside towns. Prepare for an unforgettable journey across 6.6 miles (10.6 km) of Devon’s captivating coastline.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Starting Point: Exmouth

Your journey begins at Exmouth, a bustling town renowned for its two miles of sandy beach and lively marina. Before you set out on your walk, you might want to explore the town or perhaps enjoy a hearty breakfast at one of the many cafes.

Orcombe Point (1 mile from Exmouth)

Leaving Exmouth behind, you'll soon reach Orcombe Point, the official start of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. Here, you'll find the Geoneedle, an impressive monument unveiled by HRH The Prince of Wales in 2002 to celebrate the World Heritage Site designation. The Geoneedle is made from a variety of rocks, each representing a different geological time period along the Jurassic Coast.

Straight Point (3 miles from Exmouth)

Continuing along the coast path, your next stop is Straight Point, a Ministry of Defence firing range. Keep an eye out for the red flags - if they're flying, it means firing is taking place. The path may be temporarily closed during these times, but an alternative route is always available. Despite its military use, the area is remarkably beautiful, with dramatic cliffs and stunning sea views.

Facilities: None at Straight Point. Ensure you have adequate supplies before leaving Exmouth.

Sandy Bay (4 miles from Exmouth)

As you progress, you'll come across the holiday resort of Sandy Bay with its private beach. The path here offers fantastic views out to sea and, on a clear day, you can even see as far as Portland Bill in Dorset.

Facilities: Public toilets are available at Sandy Bay. Refreshments can be found at the holiday park, but access may be restricted to guests only.

West Down Beacon (5.6 miles from Exmouth)

The path then takes you up to West Down Beacon, a high vantage point offering spectacular views of the surrounding cliffs and sea. It's the perfect place for a picnic or a rest, but be aware that there are no facilities available here.

Final Stretch: Arrival in Budleigh Salterton (6.6 miles)

Continuing along the coast path, you'll finally arrive in Budleigh Salterton, a charming and tranquil seaside town with a pebble beach. The town is a perfect place to end your journey, with plenty of cafes, pubs and shops to explore. And don't forget to take a moment to appreciate the beautiful River Otter estuary, a haven for birdwatchers.

Facilities: Budleigh Salterton has several amenities including cafes, pubs, public toilets and shops.

Points to Remember

Terrain: This section has a mix of sandy beaches and cliff-top paths, with some moderate ascents and descents. Good walking shoes are recommended.

Facilities: Limited between Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton, so carry water, snacks, and any essentials you may need.

Weather: Coastal weather can change quickly – bring layers and a waterproof jacket.

Seasonal Refreshments: Available in both Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton throughout the year.