Anstey's Cove
A hidden cove on the English Riviera, Anstey's Cove boasts crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and excellent climbing. A true natural gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Anstey's Cove
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden cove on the English Riviera, Anstey's Cove boasts crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and excellent climbing. A true natural gem.
"Absolutely stunning location. They call it the English riviera and now I see why."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path down to the cove is steep; good shoes are a must for a safe and comfortable descent.
🏊♀️ Pack for a Swim
The water is crystal clear and inviting for a refreshing dip or snorkeling adventure.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 176 reviews
Type
Beach
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal Clear Waters
The Cove
Invitingly clear water perfect for swimming, paddling, and snorkeling. A true gem of the English Riviera.
Dramatic Coastal Scenery
Surrounding Cliffs
Stunning cliffs and breathtaking vistas along the South West Coast Path. A photographer's dream.
Rock Pooling Adventures
Cove Shoreline
Captivating rock pools teeming with marine life, ideal for curious explorers of all ages.
Challenging Climbing Routes
Coastal Cliffs
Exciting sport and trad climbing routes for experienced climbers, offering steep and pumpy challenges.
+3Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Steep Descent, Rewarding Views
Parking and Facilities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path down to the cove is steep; good shoes are a must for a safe and comfortable descent.
🏊♀️ Pack for a Swim
The water is crystal clear and inviting for a refreshing dip or snorkeling adventure.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for the stunning coastal scenery and unique rock formations.
🧗♂️ Experienced Climbers Welcome
Anstey's Cove offers challenging routes for those looking for a coastal climbing experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path down to the cove is steep; good shoes are a must for a safe and comfortable descent.
🏊♀️ Pack for a Swim
The water is crystal clear and inviting for a refreshing dip or snorkeling adventure.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for the stunning coastal scenery and unique rock formations.
🧗♂️ Experienced Climbers Welcome
Anstey's Cove offers challenging routes for those looking for a coastal climbing experience.
☕ Cafe & Facilities Available
Enjoy refreshments at the cove's cafe and utilize the clean toilet facilities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Anstey's Cove is widely praised as a stunning, unspoiled gem of the English Riviera, with visitors loving its crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and rock pools. The nearby cafe and facilities are a welcome bonus, though the steep walk down is a point of caution for some. It's a highly recommended spot for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
"Absolutely stunning location. They call it the English riviera and now I see why. There is a car park just up the hill with a short walk down to the crystal clean water. Lovely say out in the sun watching the world go by at this location."
Rob Hinson
"This is one of my favourite local places to visit on any day of the week. It’s very unspoilt. They have pay and display parking both on street and a public car park. Absolute gem of a place ❤️"
B
"What a gem Anstey's Cove is! This little haven boasts a fantastic cafe serving delicious food and coffee, plus the welcome addition of clean toilet facilities and plenty of seating. But the real star of the show is the beautiful cove itself, with its invitingly crystal clear water and captivating rock pools. I can just imagine children having an absolute blast here, paddling in the clear water and becoming intrepid explorers amongst the rocks!
We also took the opportunity to walk a section of the South West Coast Path from Anstey's Cove back to Torquay, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. The scenery was utterly breathtaking, with truly spectacular vistas, similar to the stunning view I've included below."
Ian
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Anstey's Cove is located in Torquay. You can reach it by car, with pay and display parking available nearby. It's also accessible via walking trails, including sections of the South West Coast Path.
The walk down to Anstey's Cove is quite steep, which may be challenging for individuals with mobility issues or very young children. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
Yes, you can enjoy a scenic walk along the South West Coast Path from Torquay to Anstey's Cove, offering breathtaking coastal views. +1
There are pay and display parking options available, including on-street parking and a public car park close to the cove.
While direct public transport to the cove itself might be limited, you can take buses to Torquay and then walk or take a taxi to the vicinity of Anstey's Cove.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Anstey's Cove is a natural cove and does not require an entrance ticket. Parking fees may apply.
Anstey's Cove is a natural attraction and is generally accessible at all times. The cafe facilities will have specific operating hours.
There is no entry fee for Anstey's Cove itself. Parking charges may apply in the designated areas.
While the cove is a natural area, visiting at night might be less safe due to the steep paths and lack of lighting. It's best enjoyed during daylight hours.
General public access is permitted. However, it's advisable to check local guidelines for any specific restrictions, especially regarding dogs or fires.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
You can swim, snorkel, explore rock pools, sunbathe, and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery. Experienced climbers can tackle the challenging routes.
Yes, the water is known for being crystal clear and is a popular spot for swimming and wild swimming.
Absolutely! Anstey's Cove boasts a cafe serving food and coffee, as well as clean toilet facilities.
The clear waters and marine life make Anstey's Cove an excellent spot for snorkeling and freediving.
Children can enjoy paddling in the clear water and exploring the rock pools. However, the steep descent requires supervision.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic cliffs, the crystal-clear water, the unique rock formations, and the stunning coastal vistas along the South West Coast Path.
The western-facing aspect can offer beautiful sunset views, especially with the dramatic coastal backdrop.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations and permissions. It's advisable to check with local authorities before flying a drone.
Explore the South West Coast Path for panoramic views, and the rock pools offer macro photography opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a macro lens can capture the details in the rock pools. A polarizing filter can enhance the water and sky.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit