Devon is the only English county with two separate coastlines, and both are superb for coasteering. The rugged, surf-exposed cliffs of North Devon around Croyde and Ilfracombe offer dramatic, swell-influenced adventures, while the sheltered red-rock coves of South Devon around Torbay and Salcombe provide warmer, calmer conditions ideal for families and first-timers. Between them, Devon can offer good coasteering in almost any weather — guides simply choose the coast that's working best on the day.
North Devon and South Devon
North Devon's Atlantic coast delivers the bigger, bolder coasteering: powerful water, exposed cliffs and a wilder feel, best suited to those who want a genuine adrenaline hit. South Devon's coast — the English Riviera and the South Hams — is more sheltered, with clear water, accessible coves and a gentler character that works beautifully for introductory and family sessions. Both coasts combine the core coasteering ingredients of swimming, scrambling, traversing and optional cliff jumps.
What to expect
A typical session runs two to three hours, with wetsuit, helmet and buoyancy aid provided. You need to swim and be comfortable in the sea; jumps are always optional. Many Devon operators keep group sizes small for a more personal experience, and several include photos of your session.
Adventuro centres in Devon
- Rock Solid Coasteering — Just outside Torquay, offering a blend of climbing, swimming, jumping and caving along the South Devon coast for all abilities, with equipment, hot drinks and professional photos included.
- North Devon Coasteering — The area's dedicated coasteering specialist, capping public sessions at just six people and offering bespoke routes at Croyde Bay and Hele Bay for a personal, immersive experience.
- Coastal Adventures — Josh's North Devon operation is all about making the stunning local coast accessible, sharing a genuine passion for the ocean with friends, families and groups.
- Adventure South — Founded by childhood friends Scott and Chris in Salcombe, offering coasteering alongside paddleboarding, climbing and unique challenges across the beautiful South Hams.
- Rock and Rapid Adventures — North Devon's largest climbing centre near South Molton, also a leading outdoor adventure centre running coasteering alongside climbing, kayaking and more.
- Surfing Croyde Bay — A Croyde-based operation offering coasteering alongside surfing on North Devon's premier surf beach.