Beach

Dawlish Warren

Reviews

5.0

(3 reviews)

Plenty of beach and surf for everyone, even on the busiest weekends. The more popular areas of the beach are no go areas for dogs in the summer months, but the northern part is dog friendly. We go two or three times a month and love it. Occasionally there are rip currents to deal with, but I've not experienced anything that would worry a strong swimmer.

Cucharilla

4y ago

Calm shallow water between the groins with a couple of lifeguard stations and a safe swimming area. Great spot to relax on a sandy beach and have a quick swim.

Lizziemozzy

4y ago

Exeter Univeristy Open Water Swimming Society swim here every sunday morning. It is very safe even when there are waves. Velo Shack cafe by the landward car park is great for a post-swim coffee.

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About

Dawlish Warren is on the south coast of Devon and is a long sand spit extending across the mouth of the Exe Estuary. The beach resort is approximately 950 metres wide, and is backed by sand dunes, and a nature reserve designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

Location

Accessibility

There is a ramp allowing wheelchair access to the beach by the first groyne. The other groynes, have only step access. The train station is not wheelchair accessible. A wheelchair could access the beach from both the seaward and landward car parks.

What swimmers say

Facilities

Nearby parking Toilets Train access

Activities

Picnic Swimming

Landscape

Gentle slope Has a beach Easy to walk to

Help verify this spot

Plan your swim

Before you go

Check tide times before entering. Incoming tides can cut off escape routes.
Watch for rip currents, especially near groynes and headlands
Cold water shock is real. Enter slowly and control your breathing.
Always swim with others or tell someone your plan
A tow float makes you visible to boats and other water users

Conditions change fast. Always check the latest data, read recent community reports, and swim within your ability.

Been here recently?

Share conditions, tips, or hazards to help other swimmers plan their visit to Dawlish Warren.

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Frequently asked questions

Is this beach safe for swimming?

Check the Conditions tab for current wave height, swell and wind. Review the Quality tab for the latest Environment Agency classification. Always read recent community reports for local knowledge.

When is the best time to swim here?

Check the Tides tab for today's high and low times. Many coastal spots are best around high tide when there's enough water depth, or during slack water when currents are weakest.

What should I bring?

A tow float for visibility, warm layers for after, and footwear for rocky entries. In colder months, consider a wetsuit, gloves, and a swim cap.