Spectacular sands and sea views

So much to do and see - but it’s the golden sands of Exmouth that provide the really big draw for SUE CADE

Although much of the beautiful East Devon coastline is pebbly, Exmouth beach by contrast is a sandy paradise. With around two miles of glorious golden sands, in the summer it’s the province of holidaymakers and local families; in the winter, the best place around to walk the dogs, blow away the cobwebs and breathe in the briny air.

Different sections of the beach offer distinctive delights; youngsters love rockpooling at Maer Rocks whilst further east is Shelley Beach with wonderful views over the Exe Estuary to Dawlish Warren, Starcross and Powderham. The estuary isn’t dredged so there are plenty of sandbanks attracting a huge population of seabirds. If that floats your boat, Stuart Line Cruises runs guided bird watching trips during the autumn and winter months as well as a choice of cruises throughout the summer. Unsurprisingly, I’m most tempted by the cream tea cruise (#creamfirst).