Torquay situated in south-west coastal region of Devon has been a popular beach attraction since Victorian times but also boasts one of the earliest inhabitants dating back 40,000 years as well. So clearly the secret is out about Torquay.
The Victorians loved to travel to the French Riviera enjoying the different landscaping, tree life and European ambiance. This was sadly missing at the time in Torquay and so they set out to change all that. Many palm trees and other tree species were planted all around the Torquay area to change the look of the town over the coming years.
There are many excellent hotels in Torquay suitable for singles, couples looking for a romantic weekend away and families with kids who need a little more space.
Arriving in the English Riviera, as Torquay has been nicknamed, you'll immediately feel right at home with the swaying Torquay palm trees, warm to moderate weather for a longer holiday season and the gentle ocean breezes which makes life pleasant in the hotter months. It is like the Mediterranean has come to southern Devon.
Torquay Harbour
The Torquay Harbour is not huge, but is able to accommodate quite a few yachts. Behind the harbour is the steep red stone cliff face that is common in the area and to the left of the harbour is a stretch of sand that is good to play beach sports during the daytime and for taking long romantic walks in the evening.
Beach Introduction
The beaches in the Torquay area have won many prestigious awards in the last few years for their cleanliness. Many have flown the Blue Flag which has become synonymous with quality beach standards in the UK. Locals are understandably proud of this status and do much to keep it that way.
Whilst Torquay does attract its mix of teenagers looking for summer escapism, families also flock to the area because of the family friendly facilities which are some of the best in the south coast. The sandy beaches and wide open areas make it easier to keep a keen eye on the little ones as they run around or work feverishly on their sand castle creations.
Torre Abbey Sands Beach
Torre Abbey Sands is one of the best large beaches for families to head out to. It has many family-focused amenities which make it possible to head down to the beach for the day and not need to make a trip back to the hotel in town to pick up more supplies.
For families who are keen on their ice cream then the local Devon ice cream is some of the best that they'll ever have tasted.
Corbyn Head
If the popularity of the Torre Abbey Sands makes this beach location a bit too crowded for you, then try Corbyn Head instead. Corbyn Head beach is dotted with a pretty, colourful beach huts the type that one sees in beach photos and wonders where they can still be found. Well they’re found there.
Corbyn Head also has some good local facilities particularly for families with younger children. The water as sheltered which makes it good for small kids just learning to paddle for the first time with their mother’s or father’s capable guidance.
Beacon Cove
Beacon Cove is a short distance along the coast. It enjoys a little more peaceful beach life away from the crowds. Especially popular with couples who enjoy spending a quiet time together lying on the beach under the shade provided by a beach umbrella or taking a romantic stroll along the sandy edge with the tide lapping their feet. Beacon Cove definitely has its own unique attractions for romantic souls.
This beach was also popular with the late mystery author Agatha Christie who is known to have spent time here and grew up in the Torquay area. There are markers in Torquay relating to the works of this author.
Beach-based Activities
For the more active amongst you there are plenty of water-based sports that happen every year on many of the beaches in Torquay.
Kayaking is a popular activity to get out along the waters, past the bays, rock formations and on to the water-bound caves.
Coasteering is common here where participants use the beach as a starting point and follow the rocky coastline on foot and by water as far they wish to go. This activity is performed without boats or other water-based craft.
Diving is also popular for those interested in some PADI diving in the waters in and around Torquay. Visitors can also get certified or re-certified as a world-recognised PADI diver if they are staying in the area long enough.
