SOUTH SANDS HOTEL | Salcombe ★ Seaside Luxury & Beachfront Bliss

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Key details

About the Hotel

Bolt Head, Salcombe, United Kingdom

Near South Sands Beach

Great

8.8

9.4

/10

4.3

Loved by South Sands Hotel guests

Dog-friendly hotel
Delicious food
Helpful staff
Comfortable room
Amazing views
Perfect location

"Fantastic place for a stay away or holiday, can't beat the beach literally at the doorstep."

Gareth from United Kingdom

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"Attention to every detail was catered for, the wonderful location right on the beach."

Colin P from United Kingdom

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"Hotel positioned right on the sandy beach next to the little ferry which takes you into Salcombe itself."

Susan from United Kingdom

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South Sands Hotel - A beachfront 4-star hotel with sea-view rooms, onsite dining, and marine activities

South Sands Hotel is a 22-bedroom and 5-suite property located directly on South Sands Beach, featuring rooms with sea views, Juliet balconies, and bespoke furnishings. Guests can choose from Dragon rooms with beach views or Yawl rooms with walk-in showers, while Room 7 offers the largest sea-view accommodation. The onsite restaurant serves locally roasted coffee from Devon, and the Ginnel Gallery displays rotating exhibitions of regional artists. Marine activities, supported by Salcombe RNLI, include wild swimming and boat trips via the South Sands Ferry. Nearby landmarks include Overbecks Museum and Garden (0.5 km) and Salcombe Harbour (2 km). Free Wi-Fi is available in rooms, and select ground-floor accommodations offer accessibility features.

Pros

Direct beach access with rooms featuring sea views and Juliet balconies.

Onsite gallery showcasing local artists and a restaurant serving Devon-roasted coffee.

Proximity to Salcombe Harbour and Overbecks Museum, both within 2 km.

Marine activities, including ferry rides and wild swimming, supported by RNLI safety measures.

Cons

Some rooms face inland and lack sea views.

Limited guaranteed availability for twin or pet-friendly rooms-advance confirmation required.

Must-do experiences

Savor fresh crab sandwiches at The Crab Shed just down the road.
Take a scenic ferry ride to the stunning Start Point Lighthouse.
Wander through the Salcombe Artisan Market for local crafts and treats.
Visit the Salcombe Maritime Museum to learn about our seafaring history.
Hike the South West Coast Path for breathtaking coastal views.

Location: Perfect

9.5/10Review score

Hotel on map

Guest Emotional Experience

Away at HomeLike coming home

“Everyone is so friendly and kind and it makes for a very relaxing time for us to just to switch off - it's just like coming home!”

LizzyNB from United Kingdom

Strange & UniqueGenius dog-friendly touch

“There was towels available as you entered to clean the dog and a basket for the dirty ones. Just a genius idea.”

Martin from United Kingdom

Shine on SocialsPicture-perfect views

“The inside seating areas are cosy and inviting, the outdoor terrace is perfectly located on the beach and the restaurant has superb views across the sea.”

Mark from United Kingdom

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Select your room type

Find detailed information on rooms, amenities, and exclusive deals for your ideal beach holiday

Deluxe Double Room Sea View

2 persons

305 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Sea view

Shower

Heating

room details

Superior Double Room

2 persons

220 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Deluxe Double Room Side Sea View

2 persons

220 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Partial View

Shower

Heating

room details

Standard Double Room

2 persons

195 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

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Prices and availability

View real-time room availability and secure the best rate for your travel dates

Facilities

Enjoy modern comforts, from ocean-view suites to family-friendly options with breakfast included

Facilities: Great

8.8/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Free parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Security
Luggage storage
Allergy-free rooms
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

Canoeing
Hiking
Cycling
Golf course
Fishing

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Pet amenities available
Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Babysitting/Child services
Board games
Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

Beach access

Room features

Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Heating
Sitting area
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Washing machine
Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At South Sands Hotel, indulge in the culinary delights of the South Sands Restaurant, where a focus on British flavors meets serene beachfront ambiance. Guests can savor delicious meals while soaking in breathtaking views of the coastline, making it an ideal spot for any occasion.

South Sands Hotel Salcombe Restaurant photo

South Sands Restaurant

British

Ambiance

Perched right on the beach at South Sands, Salcombe, this inviting restaurant boasts a relaxed coastal charm that perfectly complements the stunning seascapes beyond.

Key Offerings

The menu features traditional British fare, complemented by freshly-roasted coffee sourced from a local Devon roastery, ensuring every cup is crafted to perfection. For wine enthusiasts, discover a remarkable selection, including a deeply structured ruby red showcasing the essence of Moroccan blackberries.

Reservation

Recommended

Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and high tea.

South Sands Hotel Location

Bolt Head, Salcombe, United Kingdom

Map view

Bolt Head, Salcombe, United Kingdom

City landmarks

Museum

Overbecks Museum and Garden

2400 ft

Landmark

Salcombe North Sands

2300 ft

Park

National Trust

2800 ft

Bay

Starehole Bay

4400 ft

Gallery

Gallery 5 Salcombe

1.3 mi

Landmark

Salcombe Harbour

1.3 mi

Landmark

Castle Point

4500 ft

Museum

Salcombe Maritime Museum

1.6 mi

Landmark

Salcombe to Gara Rock Walk

1.6 mi

Landmark

East Portlemouth beach

1.3 mi

Harbour

Salcombe Yacht Club Ltd

1.3 mi

Church

Church of the Holy Trinity

1.6 mi

Landmark

Rowbury Gallery Salcombe

1.5 mi

Landmark

East Soar Car Park

1.6 mi

Landmark

Gara Rock beach

1.7 mi

Park

South Devon Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty

2.9 mi

Park

Snapes Point National Trust Car Park

1.7 mi

Beach

Mill Bay

1.9 mi

Beach

Soar Mill Cove

1.9 mi

Landmark

Moor Sand site

2.3 mi

Landmark

Sunny cove beach

2.3 mi

Landmark

Bolberry Down

2.6 mi

Landmark

Macely Cove

2.7 mi

Landmark

Kingsbridge Estuary

2.8 mi

Landmark

Kingsbridge Quay

4.0 mi

Museum

Cookworthy Museum

4.4 mi

Nearby

Beach

South Sands Beach

500 ft

Restaurants

Bo's Beach Cafe

400 ft

South Sands Beach

Explore Salcombe

Explore Bolt Head

Overbecks Museum and Garden

9 minutes' walk

Museum showcasing beautiful gardens and collections, offering stunning views of Salcombe. Special events often held throughout the year.

Salcombe North Sands

9 minutes' walk

A sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and serene beauty.

National Trust

11 minutes' walk

Beautiful coastal habitats preserved by the National Trust, ideal for nature walks and scenic views of the surrounding coastline.

Starehole Bay

16 minutes' walk

A hidden gem featuring rugged cliffs and secluded waters, perfect for a tranquil escape or a scenic hike.

Kayaking at Salcombe Harbour

25 minutes' walk

Thrilling kayaking adventures available for all skill levels. Rentals and guided tours are offered at the harbor.

Explore Coastal Walks

30 minutes' walk

Scenic walks along the South West Coast Path feature breathtaking views. Maps and information available at the hotel.

Yoga at the Beach

2 minutes' walk

Relaxing yoga classes offered on the beach, ideal for all skill levels. Seasonal sessions available.

Bo's Beach Cafe

2 minutes' walk

Casual dining with a focus on local seafood and delicious brunch options. Enjoy beach views with every meal.

The Crab Shed

5 minutes' drive

Quaint seafood restaurant renowned for its crab dishes. Specializes in fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

The Salcombe Bistro

5 minutes' drive

Family-friendly bistro offering a mix of international cuisine and local specials. Reservations recommended.

Salcombe Yacht Club

25 minutes' walk

Social hub for boaters featuring events and activities. Offers stunning views with a vibrant atmosphere during summer evenings.

The Kings Arms

5 minutes' drive

Local pub known for its live music and quiz nights. Family-friendly environment with a great selection of drinks and food.

How to get around?

City Centre

Salcombe15 min · 4000 ft

Airports

Exeter International (EXT)118 min · 48.7 mi

Newquay (NQY)177 min · 73.2 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 10 am

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.

Breakfast

At the hotel South Sands guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Languages

English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Romanian, Polish, Lithuanian

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about South Sands Hotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

South Sands Hotel enjoys a superb location directly on the sandy beach, offering easy access for sea swims and boasting a convenient ferry service to Salcombe town right next door. The terrace provides magnificent sea views, enhancing the dining experience.

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Review score

Based on 388 verified reviews

8.9/10

Great

92%

Recommend

Breakfast

9.7/10

Location

9.5/10

Value for money

8.1/10

Paid Wi-Fi

8.3/10

Pros

Beach location

Friendly staff

Clean rooms

Dog-friendly hotel

Cons

Cold cheese

No air conditioning

Pricy stay

Variable shower

Jock from United Kingdom

Couple

Deluxe Double Room Sea View

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:February 09, 2026

9/10

Really good stay!

convenient accesshelpful car parkexcellent proximity

The hotel provided convenient access to a nearby sea ferry. It also included a connecting tractor that takes guests to a nearby area. The hotel's own car park was REALLY helpful. The location provided excellent proximity to the sandy beach.

Some staff members could have been more cute. I felt a bit overlooked at times.

Service

9/10

The staff was very helpful and pleasant . I received quick responses to my inquiries and felt well-cared for throughout the visit, THAT was nice.

0 Helpful

Show less

Jason from Canada

Couple

Deluxe Double Room Sea View

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 27, 2026

9.8/10

Heavenly Stay on the Coast!

sandy beachferry serviceterrace diningsea view

The location directly on the sandy beach provided very nice ease for sea swims. A ferry service to town was conveniently next to the hotel. Dining on the terrace was magnificent, upgraded with the fine sea views. The food was AMAZING!!!

Dining

10/10

Breakfast included excellent choices and a wonderful sea view. I dined three evenings, the staff catered to every request. The food was of high-quality!!!

Facilities

9/10

Parking was ample and very convenient. The hotel offered direct beach access making swims accessible. A nearby kayak rental service added to the recreational choices.

Location

10/10

The hotel's setting right on the beach was fabulous. The views overlooking the water provided a fine backdrop. A ferry service offered easy access to town.

Service

10/10

Staff were friendly and very accommodating to my needs. Their attention was great and efficient. They always handled every request with a smile.

0 Helpful

Amelia from United Kingdom

Couple

Deluxe Double Room Sea View

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed:October 24, 2025

9.3/10

Wonderful Seaside Stay!

perfect locationeasy accesseasy parkingloud music

I found the hotel location perfect because it is right on the water. I loved easy access to a boat to town for only £4.75. I enjoyed a beautiful walk back. I appreciated super easy parking after a long day. The rooms were well appointed too.

Some staff did not seem cute. As a result, I reminded me of I was in the way at times. the music was too loud in the public areas, so it was hard to have conversations. The hotel should improve the atmosphere.

Service

9/10

Almost every staff member. I thought the staff were very great. The housekeeping service ensured cleanliness.

Rooms

9/10

I had a lovely sized room with a side sea view, aligning perfectly with expectations. My room was bright and newly furnished to a high standard. I also found it super clean everywhere.

Facilities

10/10

The hotel offers cosy indoor seating areas and an outdoor terrace that is great location. The restaurant boasts superb sea views. I enjoyed excellent meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner .

0 Helpful

Cameron from United Kingdom

Family with children

Deluxe Double Room Sea View

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed:September 28, 2025

8.8/10

good spot right on the water

beach locationon-site parkingsea viewpoor service

This hotel sit right on the beach. parking was easy on site. the breakfast had lots choices and hot items were cooked fresh. upgrading to a sea view room was worth it. The view made waking up a treat.

the customer service was not great. staff seemed focused more on prepping for the new season after the holidays. it was like they forgot i was a guest.

Rooms

9/10

the room had a walk in shower, this was a plus. a sea view room is worth it as it offers great views to wake up to and feels very close to the water.

Facilities

8/10

parking is available on site, this is convenient. the hotel is dog friendly, with dogs allowed in the restaurant, that shows that the hotel is very accomodating.

Service

9/10

the staff was polite, i can say that they nothing was too much trouble for them. they are friendly and provide a good level of service.

Dining

9/10

breakfast had lots of choices, that's a fact. hot food was freshly cooked. the fish at dinner was good quality, so i like it.

0 Helpful

Jack from United Kingdom

Couple

Standard Double Room

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed:September 12, 2025

9.0/10

Wonderful Beachfront Hotel!

easy beach accessthoughtful dog treatsfantastic sea views

The location is right on the beach! made beach access super easy. The hotel provided dog towels and treats. This was a lovely touch. The restaurant has great views. I enjoyed looking at the sea during my meals.

Service

9/10

Staff members were friendly and helpful all the time. They acted quickly when you needed something. Nothing was too much to ask from the staff. The hotel's team gave efficient service.

Rooms

9/10

My room had large windows. It had views of the sea to the side. The bathroom was a good size and very clean. It featured both a separate bath and a walk-in shower.

Dining

9/10

The restaurant's food was delicious for both dinner and breakfast. There was a great choice of food! The restaurant looks out to the sea. The food was high quality and full of flavour.

0 Helpful