Outdoor Activities

Adventure awaits - from world-class water sports to scenic coastal trails and wildlife watching

Outdoor Paradise

Exmouth is an outdoor paradise offering everything from gentle beach walks to adrenaline-pumping water sports. The combination of sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and the tranquil Exe Estuary creates endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

Water Sports

Exmouth is recognized as one of the UK's best locations for kitesurfing and windsurfing, with consistent winds and safe conditions. Numerous water sports centers offer lessons and equipment hire for all abilities.

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Kitesurfing

Exmouth's reliable winds and safe waters make it ideal for beginners and experts alike. Multiple schools offer lessons and equipment hire with experienced instructors.

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Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Explore the calm estuary waters on a SUP. Perfect for families and beginners, with equipment hire readily available along the seafront.

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Kayaking

Guided tours and hire available for estuary and coastal exploration. Discover hidden coves and get close to local wildlife from the water.

Sailing

Multiple sailing clubs welcome visitors and offer courses for all levels. The sheltered estuary provides excellent learning conditions.

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Swimming

Blue Flag beach with lifeguards on duty during summer. Two miles of clean, safe waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

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Surfing

While not a surf hotspot, there are occasional rideable waves. Better suited to bodyboarding when conditions are right.

Cycling

Exe Estuary Trail

The Exe Estuary Trail is a flat, traffic-free route perfect for families. Cycle from Exmouth along the estuary to Exeter (11 miles), or take the seasonal ferry across to Starcross and continue to Dawlish Warren. The route offers excellent birdwatching opportunities and stunning views.

Bike hire is readily available near the seafront - perfect for exploring the trail at your own pace

Family-Friendly

Flat, traffic-free paths suitable for all ages and abilities. Stop for picnics and wildlife watching along the way.

Scenic Routes

Follow the estuary with constantly changing views, spot sailing boats, and enjoy peaceful countryside.

Wildlife Spotting

The trail passes through important wildlife habitats - bring binoculars for birdwatching.

Beaches & Coastal Walks

South West Coast Path

Walk the full length of Exmouth's two-mile beach at low tide, explore rock pools teeming with sea life, or tackle a section of the South West Coast Path. The walk from Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton via Orcombe Point offers stunning views and is achievable for most fitness levels (approximately 3 hours).

Beach Walking

Beach Walking

Two miles of golden sand perfect for leisurely strolls, rock pooling at low tide, and enjoying the fresh sea air.

Orcombe Point

Orcombe Point Walk

Follow the coastal path to the dramatic red cliffs marking the start of the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Coastal Trail

Budleigh Salterton Route

3-hour coastal walk with breathtaking views, geological wonders, and charming villages along the way.

Wildlife & Nature

Exe Estuary Birdwatching

The Exe Estuary is internationally important for wading birds and wildfowl. Visit during autumn and winter to see thousands of avocets, dunlin, and wigeon. The Exmouth Local Nature Reserve at Maer Road provides excellent viewing points with information boards and hides.

Nearby Nature Spots

Orcombe Point

Red sandstone cliffs marking the western end of the Jurassic Coast. Spectacular views and excellent for photography, especially at sunrise.

Maer Nature Reserve

Coastal grassland supporting rare butterflies and wildflowers. Easy walking paths with stunning coastal views.

Dawlish Warren

Sand spit with nature reserve, unique flora, and seal spotting opportunities. Accessible via ferry or cycle trail.

Seagrass Meadows

The seagrass meadows visible at low tide in the estuary are internationally rare habitats - look but don't touch!

Boat Trips & Cruises

Stuart Line Cruises

Stuart Line Cruises operates ferry services and scenic cruises along the Exe Estuary and to nearby coastal towns. Available from May to December, these trips offer unique perspectives of the coastline and excellent wildlife watching opportunities.

Popular Trips:

  • Exmouth to Starcross Ferry - Quick crossing with great estuary views
  • Exeter Canal Cruises - Historic waterway with commentary
  • Coastal Excursions - Seasonal trips exploring the Jurassic Coast
  • Wildlife Watching - Spot seals, dolphins, and seabirds

Start Your Adventure

From water sports to wildlife watching, Exmouth offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure

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