Devon, England, United Kingdom

Saltern Cove

Saltern Cove is a hidden gem of a beach located in an unspoilt and untouristy area. The beach is known for its natural beauty and tranquility, making it a perfect spot for those seeking peace and quiet. The beach is mostly rocky with some sand, and the water is clear, making it ideal for activities such as crabbing and snorkeling. The cove is also a popular spot for fishing at both high and low tide.

Access to Saltern Cove is via the steam train bridge, and it is also easily accessible from Oyster Cove via steps. However, visitors should be aware that the steps down to Saltern Cove can be slippery and steep. When the tide is low, it is possible to scramble over the rocks, but caution is advised as the rocks can be extremely slippery.

Discover places to stay near Saltern Cove and enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem.

Despite its beauty, Saltern Cove is not typically crowded, perhaps due to its somewhat hidden location and the physical effort required to reach it. The beach is also dog-friendly, making it a great choice for pet owners. However, visitors should be prepared for a lack of amenities, as the area is largely uncommercialized.

What to do at Saltern Cove?

Restaurants

Best restaurants near Saltern Cove include Waterside Inn, The Sea Shack, Waterside Grill, The Frying Scotsman, Brewers Fayre Inn On The Quay and Broadsands Bistro.

Visitor Reviews

Visitor reviews highlight the serene and unspoiled nature of the beach, with its clear waters perfect for activities like crabbing and snorkeling. The beach's secluded location and dog-friendly policy are also appreciated by visitors. However, some visitors express concerns about the steep and slippery steps leading to the beach, which can pose a challenge to access.

Where to Stay near Saltern Cove?

Visitors to Saltern Cove often stay in the nearby town of Paignton, which is known for its family-friendly attractions and proximity to other beaches along the English Riviera. Some choose to stay in Goodrington, a neighborhood within walking distance to Saltern Cove, which offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere ideal for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the area.

The following map shows available accommodations and their prices. See the full list of accommodation options here.

Where is Saltern Cove?

Latitude: 50.416139 / Longitude: -3.5568907

Saltern Cove is located in Devon. The following map of Saltern Cove shows the exact location.

Saltern Cove: Weather Today

📅 Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Today is an underwhelming day for a trip to Saltern Cove, as conditions are not ideal for a pleasant outing. You should expect light, persistent mist throughout the day, and the thick cloud cover will keep the beach feeling quite cool with a maximum air temperature of 19.1 °C. The breeze is quite blustery, which will likely make sitting on the sand uncomfortable. With the sea temperature sitting at 16.4 °C, the water is far too cold for swimming. Additionally, the moderate waves rolling in further discourage any time in the water. Given the combination of damp weather, brisk winds, and chilly sea temperatures, it is better to plan your visit for another day when conditions are much brighter and calmer.
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Air

Low / High13.9°C/19.1°C
Feels Like (High)17.7°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature16.4 °C
Wave Height1.0 m
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Rain

Rain Chance90%
Rainfall0.7 mm
Rain Duration9 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset05:08/21:29
Sunshine Hours6.8 hrs
UV Index4
Cloud Cover87%
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Wind

Speed21.2 km/h
Gusts35.6 km/h
DirectionSW

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