Plenty of sand at low tide
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Preston Sands Paignton

4.6
·658 reviews·, United Kingdom

Award-winning, flat sandy beach in Paignton, perfect for families and relaxation, featuring colorful huts and a vibrant community mural.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Plenty of sand at low tide

Preston Sands Paignton

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Award-winning, flat sandy beach in Paignton, perfect for families and relaxation, featuring colorful huts and a vibrant community mural.

4.6
(658 reviews)

"A gorgeous place to spend time here, great for unwinding from the stress of daily life."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Tide Times First! :wave:

High tide can cover much of the beach, so plan your visit accordingly for maximum sand space .

Family-Friendly Amenities :child:

Toilets, free running water, and a play park nearby make it great for kids .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Award-Winning Sandy Beach

Award-Winning Sandy Beach

Preston Sands

A long, flat, sandy stretch perfect for unwinding, sunbathing, and leisurely strolls.

Colorful Beach Huts

Colorful Beach Huts

Along the promenade

Iconic, vibrant huts offering a picturesque backdrop and a touch of classic seaside charm.

Community Art Mural

Community Art Mural

Former toilet block

A bold, bright mural celebrating beach life, adding a splash of contemporary art to the area .

TikTok
Calm Waters for Activities

Calm Waters for Activities

Preston Sands

Sheltered waters make it ideal for paddleboarding and enjoying the sea with less choppiness .

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Preston Sands Paignton can get busy, especially during peak season. Consider visiting during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy the award-winning beach more peacefully. High tide can significantly reduce beach space, so check tide times before you go for maximum enjoyment.Reddit

Family Fun and Accessibility

Preston Sands is a fantastic family-friendly spot with calm waters ideal for paddleboarding and younger swimmers.Reddit The beach is largely flat and sandy, making it accessible for wheelchairs.Reddit Nearby amenities include toilets, free running water for washing off sand, and a children's play park just behind the beach.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Early mornings
Why
Enjoy sunrise and calm waters
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons (off-season)
Why
Golden hour light, fewer visitors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#autism #autismawareness #jessicasautismstories #beachday #prestonsands #paignton #fyp #fypシ #fypシ゚viral #fypage
@jessicasautismfamily
1.3K likes • 33.6K views

Check Tide Times First! :wave:

High tide can cover much of the beach, so plan your visit accordingly for maximum sand space.Reddit

Family-Friendly Amenities :child:

Toilets, free running water, and a play park nearby make it great for kids.Reddit

Must see when visting Torbay 🫶🏻 #torquay #torbay #uk #england #paignton #preston #ocean #arcade #beach #travel #traveltok #FamilyFun
@sopiaadventure
225 likes • 31.8K views
Had a little walk around Preston Sands last night, lots of people around, had such a nice feeling. Few people walking the Beach and a surfer waiting for a good set. #paignton #surfsup #surfsupdude #djimini3pro #eveningstroll
homewiththehopwoods
12 likes • 177 views

Accessible for All :wheelchair:

The flat, sandy beach is ideal for wheelchairs and easy walking.Reddit

Capture the Sunrise :sunrise:

Early risers can witness beautiful sunrises over the water.Instagram

A swim with my lovely daughter in law Amber Louise Amer at Preston Sands, Paignton this evening. T’was glorious! 🫶
365swims4rafi
12 likes • 237 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Tide Times First! :wave:

High tide can cover much of the beach, so plan your visit accordingly for maximum sand space.Reddit

Family-Friendly Amenities :child:

Toilets, free running water, and a play park nearby make it great for kids.Reddit

Accessible for All :wheelchair:

The flat, sandy beach is ideal for wheelchairs and easy walking.Reddit

Capture the Sunrise :sunrise:

Early risers can witness beautiful sunrises over the water.Instagram

Explore the Art :art:

Don't miss the vibrant community mural adding a unique artistic touch.TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(658 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Preston Sands for its clean, award-winning sandy beach, making it a relaxing spot to unwind. Families particularly appreciate the calm waters, accessibility for wheelchairs, and nearby amenities like toilets and a play park. Some note that high tide can significantly reduce beach space, so checking tide times is recommended for the best experience.

"Great place to unwind from the stress of daily life. The beach is award winning and the flat sandy beach is lovely to walk along. There are bars/restaurants and places for kids to play near by.There are also toilets and free running water to wash off sand and drink.A gorgeous place to spend time here."

Colin Shingler

"Brilliant clean and lovely beach toilets 30p each visit disabled free water lovely and clean speed boats in the water 💧 fun had by all on a lovely sunny 🌞 day"

Matthew Brookes

"Love the relaxing sound of the waves of the see. Great place to visit once a while..."

Syed Ali Zafar Hossain

What People Like

Clean, award-winning sand
Calm waters for families
Accessible for wheelchairs

What People Dislike

Beach reduced at high tide

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Preston Sands is easily accessible by car, with parking available along the road or in a larger public car park at the end of a cul-de-sac.Reddit Public transport options include local buses that serve the Paignton area. Many visitors arrive as part of exploring the wider Torbay region.TikTok

Yes, there is parking available along the road adjacent to the beach. A larger public car park is also located just off the main road at the end of a cul-de-sac.Reddit Parking fees may apply during peak season.

Preston Sands is located a short distance north of Paignton town centre. It's a pleasant walk along the coast, or you can take a local bus service for a quicker journey.

Preston Sands is well-signposted within Paignton. If using GPS, 'Preston Sands, Paignton' should guide you directly to the area. It's a prominent feature of the coastline.

Paignton is well-connected by train, with a station in the town centre. From there, you can take a bus or enjoy a walk to Preston Sands. Driving is also a popular option, with routes from major UK cities.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Preston Sands is a public beach and there is no entrance fee to access it. You can enjoy the sand and sea freely.TikTok

Preston Sands is open 24/7, as it is a public beach. However, amenities like cafes and toilets will have specific operating hours, especially outside of peak season.

No booking is required for general access to Preston Sands. If you wish to hire beach huts, it's advisable to inquire about availability and booking procedures, especially during busy periods.

Yes, the public toilets at Preston Sands are payable, with a small fee per visit. Disabled access toilets are available and are free to use.Reddit

Dog restrictions may apply during certain times of the year, particularly during the main summer season. It's best to check local signage or council information for the most up-to-date dog access policies.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Preston Sands is perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, and walking along the flat sandy beach.Reddit The calm waters are great for paddleboarding,Reddit swimming, and building sandcastles. You can also enjoy the nearby arcade and food market.TikTok+1

Absolutely! The beach is family-friendly with calm, sheltered waters suitable for paddling.Reddit There's also a children's play park located on the field behind the beach, and plenty of space for kids to play.

Yes, there are public toilets available (payable) and free running water to wash off sand.Reddit Showers are not typically available, but the water taps are very useful for rinsing off.

Preston Sands features a long stretch of flat, golden sand, making it comfortable for walking and relaxing. It's an award-winning beach known for its clean and pleasant sandy surface.Reddit

Yes, colorful beach huts are available for hire along the promenade at Preston Sands. They offer a charming spot to relax and store your belongings, providing a classic seaside experience.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are bars and restaurants located near Preston Sands, especially in high season.Reddit You can also find options at the nearby Preston Food Market,TikTok offering a variety of refreshments and snacks.

During the high season, there's a bar next to the beach that serves refreshments.Reddit Local shops and cafes are also within easy walking distance, providing a range of options.

While there isn't a cafe directly on the sand, there are establishments located along the promenade and nearby that offer food and drinks. The Preston Food Market is also a great spot for quick bites.TikTok

You can expect typical seaside fare like fish and chips, ice cream, and snacks from local eateries. The Preston Food Market offers a diverse range of options, from street food to local produce.

While there are no designated picnic areas, the beach itself is a perfect spot for a picnic. You can also find benches along the promenade for a more relaxed dining experience.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the colorful beach huts, the expansive sandy beach, and the serene sea views.Instagram Sunrises offer a magical light,Instagram and the community art mural provides a unique, vibrant subject.TikTok

Early mornings for sunrise shots Instagram and golden hour in the late afternoon offer beautiful lighting. Weekday mornings can also provide clearer shots without large crowds.TikTok

The row of colorful beach huts is a classic subject. The recently painted community art mural on the former toilet block is also a striking and unique photo opportunity.TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the beach and sea. A telephoto lens can be useful for details like surfers or distant boats. A drone can offer stunning aerial perspectives.Instagram

Drone photography is possible, offering unique aerial views of the beach and coastline.Instagram Always ensure you are aware of and comply with any local drone regulations and privacy considerations.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Preston Sands is a top choice for families thanks to its calm, shallow waters perfect for little ones to paddle in safely.Reddit The flat, sandy beach is ideal for building sandcastles and easy to navigate with strollers. You'll find convenient toilets and free running water for rinsing off, plus a children's play park just behind the beach for extra fun.Reddit The colorful beach huts add a cheerful atmosphere, and nearby arcades and food stalls offer plenty of entertainment options.TikTok+1

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Relaxation Seekers

For those seeking a peaceful escape, Preston Sands offers a tranquil atmosphere, especially during weekdays or early mornings.TikTok The award-winning sandy beach is perfect for unwinding, reading a book, or simply enjoying the soothing sound of the waves.Reddit Its accessibility means you can enjoy a leisurely stroll without strenuous effort,Reddit and the nearby amenities ensure comfort during your solo visit.

🏄‍♀️ Watersports Enthusiasts

The sheltered waters of Preston Sands make it an excellent spot for watersports like paddleboarding.Reddit The calm conditions are ideal for beginners and those looking for a relaxed session on the water. While not a major surf spot, the sea can offer gentle waves, and the beach provides ample space to launch and land your equipment. Surfers can sometimes be seen waiting for a good set.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Preston Sands: A Family Favorite

Preston Sands in Paignton is renowned as a fantastic destination for families, offering a safe and enjoyable beach experience. The beach's award-winning status speaks to its cleanliness and appeal. Its flat, sandy expanse makes it ideal for children to play, build sandcastles, and for easy access for strollers and wheelchairs.Reddit The waters here are often calmer due to the sheltered nature of the bay, making them perfect for paddling and introducing younger children to the sea.Reddit

Beyond the sand and sea, families will appreciate the convenient amenities located nearby. Public toilets are available (for a small fee), and crucially, there's free running water for rinsing off sand – a lifesaver for parents! Just behind the beach, a children's play park provides an additional area for kids to burn off energy. The presence of colorful beach huts adds a charming visual element and can provide a shaded spot for families to gather.

Many visitors highlight the relaxing atmosphere of Preston Sands, making it a great spot to unwind. While it can get busy during peak times, visiting during weekdays or early mornings can offer a more tranquil experience. The nearby arcade and food market also add to the entertainment options, ensuring a full day of fun for everyone.TikTok+1

Accessibility and Inclusivity at Preston Sands

Preston Sands is celebrated for its excellent accessibility, making it a welcoming destination for all visitors, including those with mobility challenges. The beach boasts a flat, sandy terrain that is particularly well-suited for wheelchair users, allowing for easy movement along the shoreline.Reddit This gentle gradient also makes it comfortable for elderly visitors and those with young children in pushchairs.

Beyond the beach surface, the provision of accessible facilities further enhances the inclusive nature of Preston Sands. While standard toilets are payable, there are dedicated disabled facilities that are free to use.Reddit The availability of free running water taps is also a practical benefit, allowing visitors to easily wash off sand from themselves, equipment, or pets.

This focus on accessibility means that more people can enjoy the simple pleasures of a day at the seaside. Whether it's a leisurely stroll, a spot of sunbathing, or simply enjoying the sound of the waves, Preston Sands strives to be a beach that everyone can experience and appreciate.Reddit

The Artistic Transformation of Preston Sands

A unique and vibrant addition to Preston Sands is the community art mural that now adorns the former toilet block. This project, spearheaded by artists like Szabotage, has transformed a previously uninspiring structure into a colorful focal point.TikTok The design is a celebration of the local seaside spirit, featuring elements like sandcastles and surfboards, directly reflecting the fun and activities associated with Preston Sands.

The mural's aesthetic is intentionally bold and bright, using stencil techniques to create a striking visual impact. The artists have also paid attention to the surrounding environment, with the beach huts depicted in the artwork aligning with the actual beach huts nearby. This thoughtful integration ensures the art feels like a natural extension of the seaside landscape, adding character and a modern artistic flair.

This artistic intervention not only beautifies the area but also serves as a testament to community engagement and creativity. It provides a fantastic photo opportunity and adds another layer of interest for visitors exploring Preston Sands, making it more than just a beach but a canvas for local expression.TikTok

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