Things To Do
in Exmouth

Exmouth is a scenic seaside town on Devon’s Jurassic Coast, where the River Exe meets the sea and wide sandy beaches stretch along the Esplanade. It offers a friendly, family-oriented vibe with seafood restaurants, pubs, and easy access to coastal walks and wildlife watching. The town serves as a gateway for exploring the South West coast, with a relaxed pace and plenty of outdoor activities.

With picturesque views, Victorian charm, and a welcoming atmosphere, Exmouth blends outdoor adventure with seaside relaxation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Exmouth Museum, where you can discover the rich maritime history of the area. After immersing yourself in local history, take a leisurely stroll along the charming streets lined with quaint shops and cafes. Don’t forget to grab a traditional English breakfast at a local cafe to fuel your day ahead.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the beautiful Exmouth Beach for some sun and sand. You can try your hand at beach volleyball or simply relax with a good book while soaking up the coastal views. As the afternoon progresses, take a walk along the seafront promenade and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, find a cozy restaurant with a view of the sea for dinner, sampling fresh seafood caught from the local waters. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the beach, enjoying the sound of the waves and the beautiful twilight sky. End your evening with a visit to a local pub to experience the friendly atmosphere and perhaps enjoy some live music.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Kick off your day with a thrilling session of paddleboarding or kayaking on the Exe Estuary, where you can experience the beauty of the coastline from the water. Many rental shops offer equipment and lessons, making it accessible for all skill levels. The morning sun glistens on the water, creating the perfect backdrop for your aquatic adventure.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a beachside café, embark on a thrilling jet-ski adventure or try windsurfing, both popular water sports in Exmouth. You’ll find plenty of spots along the beach where you can rent equipment and receive instruction. Spend the afternoon enjoying the refreshing sea breeze and the excitement of riding the waves.

evening
:

After a day of water sports, unwind with a relaxed dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can indulge in local cuisine. Enjoy the picturesque views of the sunset over the water while savoring your meal. Conclude your evening with a peaceful walk along the shore, listening to the gentle sounds of the ocean.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee$2-5
🚆Public transit ride$3-6
🍺Beer at bar$5-8
🏨Budget hotel per night$70-130

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Relaxed seaside town with family-friendly beaches
  • Gateway to the Jurassic Coast and wildlife watching
  • Good value accommodation and dining options
  • Pleasant promenade for strolls and sunset views
  • Seasonal crowds in the summer
  • Smaller nightlife scene compared with larger cities
  • Limited indoor attractions in bad weather
  • Parking and traffic can be tight near the seafront in peak season

Places to Visit in Exmouth

Visit one of these nice places.

Orcombe Point and the Jurassic Coast viewpoint

Iconic cliffs and sea views marking the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast; excellent for sunrise photography.

Exmouth Esplanade at sunrise

Long, sandy promenade with golden light reflections on calm water and people strolling along the coast.

Exmouth Marina and harbour

Colorful boats, reflections on water, and activity scenes—great for nautical photos.

Beacon Hill viewpoint

Panoramic inland and estuary views offering sweeping townscape and coastlines for wide-angle shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Exmouth

Exmouth sits on the Devon coast and features seafood-forward cuisine, classic British pub fare, and traditional cream tea culture, with many places offering vegetarian options and locally sourced ingredients.

Exmouth Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Devon Cream Tea

A traditional scone served with clotted cream and jam, best enjoyed in a seaside teahouse with a pot of tea.

Must-Try!

Devon Fish and Chips

Freshly battered fish with chunky chips, mushy peas, and tartar sauce—classic seaside fare.

Crab or Lobster specials

Seasonal seafood dishes featuring locally caught crab or lobster, often served grilled or as part of a seafood platter.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Exmouth Farmers Market

Weekly market offering local produce, seafood, baked goods, and artisanal snacks; great for sampling regional treats.

Seafront Street Food Stalls

Seasonal stalls along the seafront offering quick bites like fish wraps, pies, and sweet treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Exmouth has a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers. Rain can occur year-round, with wetter periods typically in autumn and winter. Sea breezes help keep temperatures comfortable on hot days, while coastal fog or mist can appear in spring. Overall, it enjoys a relatively favorable coastal climate for outdoor activities most of the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Queueing and politeness

Queue patiently in shops and on public transport; use polite phrases like please and thank you.

Pubs and noise

Pubs are social spaces; keep noise considerate, especially in the evenings and near residential areas.

Respect for nature

Avoid disturbing wildlife, especially along the estuary and protected coastal areas; take litter home.

Safety Guide

Safety

Water safety is essential on the coast; follow lifeguard guidance on Exmouth Beach during peak season. Be mindful of slippery rocks near the estuary and coastal paths, and secure valuables in busy tourist areas. In peak season, traffic and parking around the seafront can be challenging; stay aware of cyclists and pedestrians on shared routes.

Tipping in Exmouth

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is discretionary in the UK; rounding up a bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common in restaurants and pubs.

Payment Methods

Cash and card payments are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some small venues may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long days, warm sea air, and peak beach activity; expect crowds but abundant outdoor events and water sports opportunities.

Autumn

Milder weather and quieter beaches; migratory birds along the estuary create good wildlife photography opportunities.

Winter

Stormier seas and dramatic skies; some attractions may have reduced hours, but the coastline offers powerful seascapes.

Spring

Wildflowers along coastal trails; improving daylight for walks and potential whale/dolphin sightings along nearby routes.

Nightlife Guide

Exmouth at Night

Exmouth offers a laid-back nightlife with traditional pubs, seaside bars, and occasional live music at venues along the seafront and at the Exmouth Pavilion. The scene is family-friendly and revolves around alcohol-free family events, quiz nights, and acoustic evenings rather than late-night clubbing. Seasonal festivals and events bring extra entertainment in summer, with some venues hosting live performances and cinema screenings at the pavilion.

Hiking in Exmouth

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Jurassic Coast Path (Orcombe Point to Sidmouth)

World Heritage coastline with fossils, dramatic cliffs, and sweeping sea views.

Orcombe Point Coastal Walk

Access point to the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast, suitable for shorter hikes and great photo opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Exmouth by plane.

Exeter International Airport (EXT)

Nearest airport with domestic and some international flights; about 1-2 hours by road from Exmouth.

Bristol Airport (BRS)

Major regional hub offering multiple national and international flights; several hours by car or train from Exmouth.

Newquay Cornwall Airport (NQY)

Smaller airport serving regional routes; further from Exmouth but an option for certain travel itineraries.

Getting Around

Walkability

Exmouth is highly walkable along the Esplanade and town center, with easy access to beaches. The compact center makes most sights reachable on foot, though parking can be tricky at peak times. Pedestrian-friendly paths connect to the Jurassic Coast trail and the Orcombe Point viewpoint.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many visitors come with children; family-friendly facilities and safe beaches are common.

Retirees

Quieter neighborhoods and a relaxed pace attract retirees seeking coastal living.

Couples and Individuals

Popular for weekend getaways and coastal day trips.

International Visitors

Tourists from across the UK and beyond explore the Jurassic Coast and local cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Surfing

Coastal waves at nearby beaches make surfing popular with visitors.

Sailing and Kayaking

Paddling and sailing along the River Exe Estuary and coast.

Cricket and Football

Local clubs and friendly matches during the summer season.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light to moderate, with heavier flows during peak tourist season and near the seafront. The Avocet Line railway connects to Exeter and Barnstaple, while local bus services provide alternatives. Parking near the Esplanade fills quickly in summer, so plan ahead.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Exmouth.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most venues offer vegetarian options; look for veggie pies, pasta dishes, soups, salads, and plant-based mains. When in doubt, ask for meat-free versions of local classics.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Exmouth includes local GP practices and pharmacies; the nearest major hospital is Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital in Exeter, with minor injuries units at nearby facilities. For urgent care or emergencies, dial 999; NHS 111 provides medical information and guidance. Pharmacy services are widely available around the town center.

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