8 Beautiful Family-Friendly Coastal Trails in Exmouth You Truly Need To See
If you’ve been daydreaming about a coastal escape that’s easy on the kids, full of fresh sea air, and sprinkled with Instagram-worthy views, Exmouth is calling your name. Nestled in the heart of Devon’s Jurassic Coast, this charming seaside town is a playground for families who want to stretch their legs, explore nature, and maybe even have a sandy snack or two along the way. From cliffs that make you gasp to hidden coves that feel like a secret, there’s something for everyone.
Let me show you how I make family outings not just bearable but genuinely fun—even for the kids who usually consider a five-minute walk an endurance challenge. Based on my overall experience, the best family coastal trails strike a balance between adventure, safety, and accessibility, so you can enjoy your trip without constantly worrying about little feet, slippery rocks, or an impromptu sea plunge.
Here are eight of the most beautiful family-friendly coastal trails in Exmouth that you truly need to see. Buckle up, pack your walking shoes, and maybe a little patience too—nature doesn’t mind if you’re slightly out of breath or carrying a backpack full of snacks.
1. Orcombe Point Trail
Orcombe Point is where the Jurassic Coast begins, so it’s basically the VIP entrance to millions of years of history. The trail here is relatively short, about two miles, and features stunning panoramic views of the coastline. You’ll see the cliffs roll dramatically into the sea, with fossils occasionally peeking out if you’re lucky—or if your kids are digging under rocks in the most distracting way possible.
What makes this trail family-friendly is its flatness and clear paths. You won’t have to scale steep cliffs or tiptoe over jagged rocks. Along the route, there are plenty of benches and grassy patches for a picnic or a mid-hike snack. From my own personal experience, even toddlers will enjoy toddling along, especially if you make it a mini treasure hunt for shells, feathers, or weirdly shaped stones.
Pro tip: Go at low tide if you want to explore a little beach area at the end of the trail. It’s perfect for letting the kids splash around while you pretend you’re casually taking photos but secretly chasing a runaway child in wellies.
2. Exmouth to Dawlish Warren Trail
This trail is a classic for families because it’s a combination of natural beauty and practical convenience. Stretching about five miles one way, you can choose to walk as far as your little legs allow, then turn back. The path is mostly paved, with occasional sandy patches, so it’s stroller-friendly if you have young children.
The views along the estuary and sand dunes are breathtaking. You’ll spot wildlife including swans, herons, and occasionally a cheeky seal if you’re lucky. For families, the best part is Dawlish Warren itself—a nature reserve with a sandy beach and calm waters, perfect for paddling and building epic sandcastles.
Here’s a trick: time your visit for the early morning or late afternoon. Not only is it cooler, but the wildlife is more active, and the soft sunlight makes every photo look like it belongs on a travel magazine cover. Based on my overall experience, even if your kids complain about the distance, there’s enough entertainment along the way to keep everyone happy.
3. Littleham Cove Trail
Littleham Cove is like Exmouth’s best-kept secret. It’s a small, sheltered beach area, perfect for families who want the sea without the chaos of a busy main beach. The trail is short, under two miles, and winds gently along grassy cliffs and wooded paths.
Families will love this trail because it’s shaded in parts, which is a blessing on sunny days. You can stop midway for a snack, take in the views, and even have a mini nature scavenger hunt for the kids. The cove at the end is perfect for paddling or a quick dip.
From my own personal experience, this trail is where you realize that short walks often leave the best memories. Kids can run freely, dogs (if allowed) can splash, and adults can enjoy a rare moment of peace before someone inevitably asks, “Are we there yet?”
4. Sandy Bay Trail
Sandy Bay is ideal if your family loves variety. The trail combines sandy paths, rugged cliffs, and grassy knolls. It’s about three miles round trip, and while slightly more challenging than Orcombe Point or Littleham Cove, it’s still very manageable for kids aged 6 and up.
The views are spectacular—cliffs rising dramatically from golden sands, waves rolling in with a rhythmic cadence that almost hypnotizes you. The area also has plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities. Seabirds swoop above, crabs scuttle along rock pools, and if you’re lucky, you might see a seal or two basking on the rocks.
One of the highlights for families is the beach itself. Even if your children are not the most adventurous walkers, the promise of sand and water at the end makes the journey feel shorter. Humor works wonders here: let the kids race you to the water or invent imaginative games along the way. It transforms a simple trail into a story they’ll want to retell over and over.
5. Peak Hill Trail
Peak Hill might sound intimidating, but it’s one of the most rewarding trails in Exmouth for families. The ascent is gradual, making it kid-friendly, and the view from the top is nothing short of cinematic. On a clear day, you can see across the estuary, the surrounding cliffs, and out to the English Channel.
The trail itself is versatile. You’ll find grassy paths, rocky stretches, and some wooded areas that offer shade and shelter. Wildlife spotting is excellent—rabbits, foxes, and birds of prey are common, so pack a pair of binoculars if your kids are into that kind of thing.
From my own personal experience, giving kids a simple map or a fun “mission” for the hike adds a layer of excitement. Let them mark landmarks, spot different animals, or count certain colored flowers. It keeps them engaged and adds a subtle educational twist without anyone realizing they’re learning while having fun.
6. Jurassic Cliffs Trail
This is the trail for the adventurous family that wants a mix of history, geology, and scenery. The Jurassic Cliffs Trail runs along Exmouth’s dramatic cliffside paths, offering panoramic views and fascinating geological formations. You’ll see layers of rock that date back millions of years—a perfect conversation starter for curious kids who like weird facts.
Safety is key here. The trail is suitable for children, but keep a close eye on them near the edges. The paths are wide enough in most places, and the views are worth every careful step. There are benches along the route where you can pause and take in the vistas while the kids explore nearby rock formations.
From my own personal experience, a little humor goes a long way. Turn rock shapes into creatures, invent stories about pirates or dinosaurs, or challenge the kids to spot the “funniest rock formation.” It keeps the mood light, even if someone inevitably complains about the uphill sections.
7. Exmouth Seafront to Sandy Bay Circular Trail
If you want a trail that mixes a casual stroll with a bit of a scenic adventure, this circular trail is perfect. Starting at Exmouth Seafront, you’ll walk past traditional beach huts, lively cafés, and wide-open promenades before winding toward Sandy Bay and looping back.
Families appreciate this trail because it combines the charm of the town with natural beauty. There are plenty of rest stops, ice cream opportunities, and spaces where children can run freely without worry. The route is about three miles, making it manageable even for younger walkers.
Based on my overall experience, this trail works best when you let the kids set the pace. Stop for photo ops, collect shells, and take occasional breaks on the benches along the way. By the time you loop back to the seafront, everyone feels accomplished—and no one’s arguing about being too tired to finish.
8. Sandy Bay to Orcombe Point Coastal Loop
For families who want a bit more distance without venturing into overly challenging terrain, the Sandy Bay to Orcombe Point loop is ideal. This trail offers a mix of sandy beaches, cliffside paths, and grassy hills. You’ll see sweeping coastal views, diverse wildlife, and plenty of spots for spontaneous picnics or sandcastle competitions.
The loop nature of the trail means you don’t have to backtrack, which is a psychological win for kids who feel like they’re constantly retracing steps. Plus, it provides a natural rhythm—walk, explore, snack, repeat.
From my own personal experience, trails like this one are where family memories really form. Everyone contributes in small ways—one person spots wildlife, another collects shells, and someone always forgets to take off their shoes before wading into the water. These little moments are the magic of family adventures.
Final Thoughts on Family-Friendly Coastal Trails in Exmouth
Exmouth is more than a seaside town—it’s a playground for families who want to combine the best of nature, history, and adventure in one outing. From cliffs to coves, estuaries to beaches, the area’s trails offer a variety of experiences that are manageable, enjoyable, and downright memorable.
If there’s one thing to remember when exploring these trails with your family, it’s this: the journey matters as much as the destination. Let the kids lead when they want to, explore quirky finds, and embrace the occasional slowdown—it’s all part of the adventure.
Pack wisely: water, snacks, sunscreen, hats, and a sense of humor are non-negotiable. And don’t forget a camera or two because, trust me, these views are not something you’ll want to forget.
Whether it’s a short stroll to Littleham Cove or a full-day adventure along the Jurassic Cliffs, these eight family-friendly coastal trails in Exmouth are treasures waiting to be explored. You’ll truly love every step, every view, and every moment of sandy, salty joy.