Taking the kids away and keeping them entertained during the summer holidays can be a bit daunting! Praying that they behave and have a good time can seem like an almost impossible task, but, with My Brixham Holiday, we’ll help you have the most fun and relaxing holiday in the beautiful Brixham and surrounding areas. From crabbing to waterparks, and boat trips to beaches, there’s something for every family to create lasting memories!
Crabbing
Crabbing in Brixham is a fantastic, low-cost activity for young families, offering hours of fun by the water while creating special holiday memories. The best spots for crabbing are Brixham Harbour and Prince William Quay, where little ones can safely dangle their lines over the edge and wait for the excitement of a catch!
To get started, all you need is a simple crabbing kit, available at local shops like Brixham Bait & Tackle, plus some bait. Crabs love smelly food, so bacon, fish heads, or squid work best! Drop your line in, be patient, and when you feel a little tug, slowly pull it up and scoop your crab into a bucket of seawater.
Remember to handle the crabs gently and release them back into the water after you’ve had a good look. It’s a great way to introduce kids to local marine life while having a fun, screen-free adventure by the seaside!
Top Tips:
- Timing: The optimal time for crabbing is just after the tide begins to rise, as crabs are less likely to be buried in the mud and more accessible.
- Technique: Allow the bait to reach the bottom and avoid areas with dense seaweed. Hold the line loosely and wait patiently for a tug, indicating a crab has taken the bait. Slowly and steadily reel in the line, keeping the net ready to scoop up the crab just before it reaches the surface.
- Handling: Once caught, gently place the crab in a bucket filled halfway with sea water and some seaweed for shade. Remember, shore crabs are not edible, so it’s best to release them back into the water after observing them.
Visit Our Beautiful Beaches
- Breakwater Beach
Tucked beside the entrance of Brixham Harbour, Breakwater Beach offers some of the most picturesque views of Torbay nestled within South Devon’s beautiful bay. Recognised with a Blue Flag award and praised by the Good Beach Guide, it’s a favourite for visitors who enjoy coastal walks, fresh sea air, and taking in the scenery. With smooth pebbles underfoot, it’s an ideal spot to pause for a hot chocolate or ice cream from the nearby cafés while soaking up the harbour’s charm. With disabled access and convenient parking close by, it’s a scenic and accessible stop for all.
Breakwater Beach is especially popular among scuba diving enthusiasts. With some of the UK’s warmest and calmest waters, it’s the perfect place to take the plunge, whether you’re a beginner or looking to earn your Open Water Certificate. Several local dive schools operate in the area, offering guided experiences where you can explore rare seagrass beds, spot seahorses and fish, and even discover historic shipwrecks beneath the waves. Which is fantastic if you want to relax in the sun whilst your kids have a blast in the sea!
- Fishcombe Cove
Fishcombe Cove is the perfect spot for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful seaside retreat. Tucked away along the coast from Brixham, this small, secluded shingle beach is surrounded by dramatic red cliffs, creating a sheltered and tranquil setting. The calm waters make it a great spot for swimming, though you might have a few curious onlookers, as boats and yachts often moor nearby, and you may even spot a friendly seal popping up to say hello!
Dogs are welcome all year round, making it a fantastic place for a scenic coastal walk with your four-legged friend. However, access can be a little tricky, especially for families with prams or those with limited mobility, as the path leading down to the cove is steep. But for those who make the journey, Fishcombe Cove offers a hidden gem of unspoiled beauty and serenity.
- Shoalstone Pool
For a fun-filled family day out, head to Shoalstone Pool, Brixham’s unique 53-metre outdoor seawater swimming pool! Built into a natural rock pool, this historic spot has been a favourite for swimming since Victorian times. With shallow and deep areas, it’s perfect for children to splash around while parents relax by the water.
The large open space around the pool is ideal for sunbathing or setting up a picnic, and there’s even a café with stunning views across Torbay. Lifeguards are on duty during peak seasons, ensuring a safe swim, and facilities like first aid, warning flags, and lifebuoys provide extra peace of mind. While prams and buggies may find access tricky due to steps, the nearby promenade has a disabled ramp for easier entry.
Just a short walk from the centre of Brixham, Shoalstone Pool is a fantastic, free-to-use spot where families can enjoy the fresh sea air, safe swimming, and unforgettable coastal views!
- St Mary’s Bay
St Mary’s Bay is a beautiful hidden beach that’s perfect for a family adventure. Nestled beneath dramatic cliffs and reached by a scenic walk and steep steps, it feels like your very own secret spot. With soft sand, fascinating rock pools, and space to explore, kids will love discovering what the tide has left behind. The views from the South West Coast Path above are spectacular, and just a short stroll away is Berry Head National Nature Reserve—great for a nature walk and a stop at the family-friendly Guardhouse Café. Dogs are welcome all year round, and parking is available nearby at Sharkham Point.
Explore the sea
Returns £8.00 for children and £10.00 for adults
For those looking for something more leisurely, if you have smaller children, consider a Dartmouth Day Cruise that departs regularly from Brixham Harbour. These cruises offer a perfect opportunity to explore the stunning coast, providing spectacular views of Berry Head and the surrounding bay. This is an all-day excursion cruising along the South Devon coastline taking in views of Berry Head and Coleton Fishacre before passing the Daymark at Kingswear and entering the River Dart to land at the port of Dartmouth with its fascinating shops and variety of restaurants and cafés (a favourite spot for spotting dolphins). Plenty of time for exploring before your afternoon return sailing! Perfect for families and dogs, who would like a relaxing day with breathtaking views of the coast.
You can also get a water taxi which operates from Brixham Harbour with Paignton Pleasure Cruises they run a regular Brixham to Torquay ferry service which is great value for money! Check out their website to find out all the other services they run.
2. Torquay Coastal RIB Seafari
From £35.00 per person
For an exhilarating way to explore the stunning Devon coastline, consider the Torquay Coastal RIB Seafari. This high-speed boat tour offers a thrilling ride along the English Riviera, providing unique views of hidden coves, dramatic cliffs, and secluded beaches. Along the journey, there’s a good chance of spotting local wildlife, including seals and dolphins, making for an unforgettable experience that’s well worth the money!
Led by experienced skippers who share insights about the area’s history and geology, this adventure combines excitement with education. Whether you’re an adrenaline enthusiast or a nature lover, the Torquay Coastal RIB Seafari promises a memorable addition to your Devon visit. This also comes with a 24-hour refund policy, giving you peace of mind knowing that your money is protected if anything unexpected comes up.
3. Guided Wildlife and Sea Cave Kayak Safari in English Riviera
From £55.00 per person
For those families seeking an adventurous exploration of Torbay, a Guided Wildlife and Sea Cave Kayak Safari offers a unique perspective of this stunning coastline. Participants can paddle through crystal-clear waters, discover hidden sea caves and observe local wildlife in their natural habitats. This immersive experience not only provides an intimate connection with nature but also offers the thrill of navigating through secluded coastal features.
This 3-hour adventure, suitable for participants aged 4 to 85, accommodates groups of up to 24 people. Designed for both beginners and seasoned kayakers, the tour is led by experienced guides who ensure safety while sharing insights about the region’s ecology and geology. It’s an ideal activity for those looking to combine physical activity with the serene beauty of the Bay. It’s also free to cancel up to 24 hours before because we know how unpredictable family life can be!
Splashdown Quay West
From £15.00 per person
If you fancy venturing slightly further, then a trip to Goodrington for a splashtastic family day out at the UK’s biggest outdoor waterpark! Splashdown Quaywest is now even bigger and better, with exciting new attractions for all ages. Little ones will love Shipwreck Island, a pirate-themed splash zone packed with mini rides, interactive water features, and a giant tipping bucket for endless fun.
Thrill-seekers can race headfirst down 3Fall, a fast three-lane slide, or take on wild river rapids and twisting flumes. When it’s time to relax, families can enjoy the swimming areas, soak up the sun, or grab a bite at the on-site cafés.
Keeping the kids entertained during the summer holidays doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether it’s exploring beautiful beaches, setting off on exciting boat trips, or enjoying thrilling waterparks, there’s something for everyone. Let us help you create unforgettable memories in Brixham and its stunning surroundings! Don’t forget to book with My Brixham Holiday to ensure that after an exciting day out, you can come back to a comfortable retreat!