If you’re starting to plan your 2026 holiday, Exmouth has everything you need for a memorable UK staycation. A long, sandy beach, the perfect mix of coast and countryside, and a vibrant selection of cafés, pubs and restaurants all within easy reach. It’s simple to get here by car or train, and once you arrive, everything is within walking distance – so you can make the most of your days without worrying about any additional travel.
Whether you’re visiting for a short break or a longer stay, Exmouth suits families, couples, groups of friends, or solo travellers. Here’s why Exmouth should be the top of your list when planning your next staycation.
Two Miles of Sand and Seafront
At the heart of any visit is Exmouth’s two-mile stretch of golden sand. It’s perfect for traditional seaside days, early morning walks along the shoreline or relaxed evenings watching the sun go down. The gently shelving sea is ideal for swimming and watersports, while the promenade is lined with cafés, places to eat and plenty of spots to pause and take in the view.
Coastal and Estuary Walks
From Exmouth, the coastline and estuary are right on your doorstep. Follow the South West Coast Path towards Budleigh Salterton for dramatic cliff-top views along the Jurassic Coast. If you’d rather stay closer to home, a stroll out to Orcombe Point offers the perfect vantage for watching the sun set over the sea behind the iconic Geoneedle – a perfect way to end the day. For a longer adventure, you can follow the Exe Estuary Trail along the flat, scenic estuary path, passing the pretty village of Lympstone, the historic riverside town of Topsham, and Starcross on the way to Dawlish Warren, making for a scenic and rewarding day out.
You can read more about Exmouth’s best coastal trails here.
Independent Shops, Cafés and Restaurants
Exmouth’s town centre and seafront are full of independent places that give the town its personality. You might start the morning with coffee and pastries overlooking the marina, spend a few hours browsing local shops for something you won’t find anywhere else, then settle in for fresh seafood at a waterside pub as the light drops over the estuary. By the end of the day, you’ll have sampled local flavours, wandered streets full of character, and experienced a side of the coast you can’t get anywhere else.
Activities for Everyone
Exmouth offers a mix of activities for visitors of all ages. Watersports such as paddleboarding, kayaking or sailing are popular, while cycling trails and guided walks are available for those who prefer land-based activities. Families can make a day of the beach, couples can explore the coastline or estuary, and solo visitors can take long walks or enjoy a quiet café by the water.
The town is easy to navigate, so you can combine activities without spending time commuting or organising logistics.
Exploring Further Afield
If you did want to venture beyond Exmouth, there’s plenty within easy reach. To the east, the Jurassic Coast stretches out with cliff-top walks, dramatic coves, and the charming village of Budleigh Salterton. A short drive or a quick train journey takes you to Exeter, with its historic streets, vibrant shopping scene and wide selection of restaurants. Just along the river, Topsham offers a completely different feel, with its historic waterfront, independent shops and relaxed food scene, making it an easy and worthwhile addition to a stay in Exmouth.
Planning Your 2026 Staycation
Exmouth has something for everyone, whether you want to spend the day on the beach, explore the town’s independent shops and cafés, or take a quick trip further afield. You can easily switch between a relaxed morning by the sea, a leisurely lunch in town, and an afternoon wandering historic streets or scenic paths nearby. With so much on your doorstep, each day can be as busy or as slow-paced as you like, making it simple to plan a break that suits you perfectly. Take a look at the wide range of accommodation available and start planning your 2026 staycation in Exmouth today.
