Christmas Day swims in South Devon have been tradition for locals forever. If you are looking to make unique memories this year on your festive holiday to our beautiful county, this is the perfect thing! Bring drinks and nibbles down to the beach, perhaps a hot water bottle or two, and let your pooch join in the fun. Up for the challenge? Check out our Christmas Day swim recommendations in South Devon. Make sure to wear your Santa’s hat!
1. Blackpool Sands
This is a relaxed non-official event. Locals gather in their Christmas Day groups for drinks and nibbles on the beach. And, for those of us who are brave enough, take a dip in the ocean. The water gets deep quickly here. So, make sure you are a strong enough swimmer if you choose to join in the fun!
2. Preston Beach
This one is actually a Boxing Day tradition at 12, midday. The Annual Walk into the Sea event raises funds for local causes. Each year hundreds of fundraisers don optional fancy dress and, at the starter’s command, swiftly walk into the sea, where the fun starts. This popular event is watched by many, who shiver and laugh at the spectacle whilst applauding those who take part for charity. This is a ticketed event, with registration starting at 10am.
3. South Milton Sands
This beautiful sandy beach is a popular spot for a Christmas Day dip. You won’t be alone during your brave plunge into the ocean with many locals taking part in the annual tradition. Enjoy the iconic Thurlestone rock arch just out to sea as you brave the cold dip. The Beach House café is a great place for a warming drink after your swim but do check their opening times.
4. Bigbury Beach
One of the region’s much-loved sandy beaches and a popular choice for a Christmas Day dip in South Devon. Backed by rolling countryside and rocky cliffs, the views are second to none. There is ample beachside parking here too, making it a convenient Christmas Day swimming spot. It’s easy to see why so many people choose this beach to take a festive plunge!
5. Torcross Beach
Torcross Beach is a beautiful shingle beach, part of the three-mile long Slapton Sands. This beach is a popular choice for a Christmas Day dip with the locals. The beach has a steep shelf upon entering the water. Be prepared for full immersion upon entry! There is no hanging around! A haven for wildlife, you may be joined by a seal or two. So don’t be surprised if they pop up to say hello.
6. Exmouth Beach
On Christmas Day, people will congregate in front of Exmouth’s clock tower and beach at 10:45am. The swim begins at 11am, after the crowd has sung a rendition of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”. The whole spectacle lasts for roughly an hour before swimmers head back home for a well-earned festive feast.
7. Broadsands Beach
The perfect spot for a Christmas Day dip. Enjoy views across Tor Bay as you take a refreshing plunge in the English Channel. Just be sure to check the tide times because there is essentially no beach when the tide is in!
Safety Tips
- Be mindful that there are NO lifeguards present on any of these beaches at this time of year!
- Bring lots of layers to wrap up in afterwards!
- Make sure you are a confident swimmer before joining in the fun.
- Bring a hot water bottle (or two) to warm yourself up after your dip.
- NEVER go alone! Or if you do, make sure someone knows where you are going and what time you will be back.
- Don’t let children stay in for too long.
For more ideas for what to do on Your Devon Escape, why not check out our journal for recommendations. Or make us all jealous by sharing your adventures with #yourdevonescape. Tag us on Facebook @YourDevonEscape, on Instagram @your_devon_escape or TikTok @yourdevonescapeltd.