The Best Wild Swimming Spots in Devon

Wild swimming is becoming an increasingly popular sport, there is something exciting about leaving your wet suit at home and entering open water with just a swimming costume on. Immersing yourself into cold water provides a sense of elation and relaxation, soothes muscle aches, relieves depression and boosts the immune system. All wild-dippers know the natural endorphin high that raises mood, creates an addictive urge to dive back in and definitely starts the day off to a fantastic start.

Wild swimming around Devon is extremely popular because of all the stunning coastline and magical countryside. Here are our favourite wild swimming spots in Devon:

Spitchwick Common, Dartmoor

Spitchwick has been a wild swimming destination for locals and visitors to South Devon. The area has a couple of parking spaces throughout and is a great place for families as it has a beautiful stretch of grass right by the water.

Sugary Cove, Dartmouth

Sugary Cove is a small hidden cove which is just around the corner from Dartmouth Castle. It is a secluded spot that is perfect for wild swimming. The beach offers a quiet location to enjoy a peaceful swim surrounded by stunning scenery.

Cowsic Waterfall Pools, Dartmoor

Cowsic Waterfall Pools is another deluded spot on Dartmoor. It can be found on the Cowsic River, just before it meets the West Dart. This swimming spot consists of small plunge pools which are ideal for taking a dip. Getting down to this spot can be difficult for young swimmers as the footpath is tricky.

Salmon Leaps, Teign, Chagford

Right beneath Castle Drogo, the woods shelter a long river pool on the River Teign. Here is a great spot for wild swimming although the current can be strong so not recommended for young swimmers or less able swimmers.

Sharrah Pool, Dartmoor

This peaceful swimming spot can be found by parking at New Bridge and then heading through Holne Woods. It has a large open pool backed by an enchanting woodland, theres also some sandy spots and flat stones which make it perfect for a quiet swim and relax.

Elberry Cove, Paignton

Elberry Cove is another fantastic beach for a swim, it is easily accessed across the cliff top from nearby Broadsands Beach and is popular among locals for its crystal clear waters.

Soar Mill Cove Beach, Salcombe

This beach is a wonderful sheltered bay which is perfect for wild swimming in South Devon. The path to get down to the beach is quite steep so not suitable for those with limited mobility. The scenery is staggering so definitely worth the effort.

We hope our list of the best wild swimming locations in Devon is helpful and you have found somewhere you’ll enjoy! Please remember to be careful, watch tides and currents, be aware of rocks and foreign items in murky waters. Why not keep all your belongings safe and dry in our Ultra Dry Bags? We have lots to choose from so head over to our shop and have a look!