Six Coastal Gems Worth Discovering

Sidmouth’s beautiful town beach is one of the highlights of any visit to East Devon, but if you’re prepared to venture a little further, you’ll discover a quieter side to the Jurassic Coast.

Hidden beneath dramatic red cliffs, tucked away at the end of coastal footpaths or concealed beyond rolling countryside, these lesser-known beaches offer a chance to escape the crowds and experience the coastline at its wildest. Some require a little more effort to reach, but that’s exactly what makes them so special.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful picnic spot, a scenic coastal walk or simply somewhere to soak up the beauty of the Jurassic Coast, these hidden gems are all within an hour of the Bedford Hotel.

1. Weston Mouth

If we were recommending just one hidden beach near Sidmouth, this would be it.

Only a few miles east of the town, Weston Mouth is a wonderfully unspoilt stretch of shingle beach backed by towering red sandstone cliffs. There are no cafés, no beach huts and no promenade – just the sound of the waves and one of the most dramatic coastal settings in East Devon.

Reaching the beach is part of the adventure. Follow the South West Coast Path from Weston village or Sidmouth and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views before descending to the shore. Even in the height of summer, it’s often surprisingly peaceful.

Key Info:

• Distance from the Bedford Hotel: Approximately 10 minutes by car, followed by a 20–30 minute walk.
• Best for: Coastal walks, photography, peaceful surroundings.
• Facilities: None – bring everything you need.

2. Littlecombe Shoot

Many people walk the South West Coast Path between Sidmouth and Branscombe without realising that one of the area’s most secluded coves lies just below them.

Littlecombe Shoot is a small, sheltered beach reached via a steep path from the coast path. Its coarse shingle, dramatic cliffs and complete lack of development make it feel wonderfully untouched.

Because it takes a little effort to reach, you’ll often find yourself sharing the beach with only a handful of other visitors, even on warm summer days.

Key Info:

• Distance from the Bedford Hotel: Around 20 minutes by car, followed by a 25-minute walk.
• Best for: Escaping the crowds, quiet picnics and photography.
• Facilities: None.

3. Hooken Beach

Hidden beneath the spectacular Hooken Cliffs, this beach feels like stepping into another world.

The dramatic landslip that created the Hooken Undercliff has produced one of the Jurassic Coast’s most fascinating landscapes. Twisted woodland, unusual rock formations and towering cliffs surround this quiet stretch of shoreline, creating a real sense of adventure.

The walk to Hooken Beach is every bit as memorable as the destination itself, making it a favourite for those looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

Distance from the Bedford Hotel: Around 15 minutes by car, followed by a 30-minute walk.

Best for: Geology, coastal walks and Jurassic Coast scenery.

Key Info:

• Facilities: None.
• Please note: Coastal path diversions can occasionally affect access to Hooken Beach. It’s always worth checking local path information before setting off.

4. Charton Bay

If you’re looking for wide open skies, towering cliffs and a beach that feels wonderfully wild, Charton Bay is well worth the short drive from Sidmouth.

Situated just east of Seaton, this quiet stretch of coastline is often overlooked by visitors heading towards Lyme Regis. The beach is popular with fossil hunters thanks to its Jurassic geology, while walkers appreciate the uninterrupted coastal views.

It’s an ideal place to spend a peaceful afternoon exploring rock pools or simply enjoying the scenery.

Key Info:

• Distance from the Bedford Hotel: Approximately 30 minutes by car.
• Best for: Fossil hunting, walking and spectacular coastal views.
• Facilities: None on the beach.

5. Pinhay Bay

One of East Devon’s true hidden gems, Pinhay Bay rewards those willing to make the journey.

Reached on foot from Lyme Regis or via footpaths through the beautiful Rousdon Estate, this secluded beach sits beneath dramatic cliffs and feels a long way from the bustle of nearby seaside towns.

It’s a favourite with photographers thanks to its ever-changing geology and peaceful atmosphere, while walkers often combine it with a section of the South West Coast Path.

The effort required to reach the beach simply adds to the sense of discovery.

Key Info:

• Distance from the Bedford Hotel: Around 35 minutes by car, followed by a 20–30 minute walk.
• Best for: Photography, peaceful walks and exploring the Jurassic Coast.
• Facilities: None.

6. Cogden Beach

Slightly further afield but still comfortably within an hour of Sidmouth, Cogden Beach is one of Dorset’s best-kept secrets.

Part of the famous Chesil Beach, this National Trust-owned stretch of coastline is much quieter than nearby West Bay or Burton Bradstock. A short walk across open farmland brings you to a vast expanse of shingle with uninterrupted views along the Jurassic Coast.

It’s a wonderfully peaceful place for a long walk, particularly outside the busiest summer weekends.

Key Info:

• Distance from the Bedford Hotel: Around 50 minutes by car, followed by a short walk.
• Best for: Long coastal walks, wildlife and peaceful scenery.
• Facilities: Very limited.

Before You Go

Many of these beaches are intentionally undeveloped, so a little preparation goes a long way.

• Check tide times before setting off, particularly if you’re visiting smaller coves.
• Wear sturdy footwear, as several beaches are reached via uneven coastal paths.
• Take plenty of water and snacks, as most have no nearby facilities.
• Stay well away from the base and edge of cliffs, as rockfalls can occur along the Jurassic Coast.
• Leave nothing behind except footprints, helping to protect this incredible World Heritage coastline for future visitors.

Discover the Jurassic Coast’s Hidden Side

One of the greatest joys of staying in Sidmouth is that some of the Jurassic Coast’s most peaceful beaches are just a short drive away. While the popular seaside towns have their place, these quieter coves offer something altogether different – a chance to slow down, breathe in the sea air and experience the coastline much as nature intended.

The Bedford Hotel makes the perfect base for exploring East Devon’s hidden beaches. After a day discovering secluded coves, dramatic cliffs and breathtaking coastal views, return to Sidmouth for a relaxing evening, a delicious meal in Pynes Bar & Restaurant, and the comfort of your room overlooking the bay.

Who knows… you might even find your new favourite beach.