Saltern Cove is one of the Sites of Special Scientific Interest designated in the English Riviera Geopark Opens in a new window and a local nature reserve. Uniquely in Britain, this nature reserve extends underwater to a point of 376 metres beyond the low water mark.
The beach is made up of sand, shingle and rocks, and at low tide there are many rock pools to explore.
The beach is located along the South West Coast Path Opens in a new window to the South of Goodrington Sands and is accessed down a set of steps from the coast path above. It is one of the coves which make up the local area known as ‘Three Beaches'.
"From Goodrington, South Sands around to Saltern Cove this beautiful stretch of sheltered coves and exposed cliffs not only boasts fantastic geology but also supports diverse communities of intertidal life.
As a result, in addition to its geological SSSI designation, it is also the only underwater SSSI in the country and a marine local nature reserve. It is here that one of the most important Upper Devonian stratigraphic localities in Britain is exposed whilst close by the unconformable contact between the Lower Devonian and the overlying Permian beds is clear. Additionally, an abundance of fossil burrows found nearby are evidence of life within the Permian desert. Theories regarding the resident of the burrows have ranged from giant sandworms to small reptiles, with the current favourite being giant millipedes."
Credit to: English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark
Information about toilets, cafés and beach facilities at Saltern Cove
Facilities at Saltern Cove
Guidance for visitors with accessibility needs.
Accessibility information
Details of nearby car parks and Blue Badge parking.
Car parking near Saltern Cove
Delivering Harbour, Beach and Marine Services for Torbay Council.
