Blackpool Sands
England, United Kingdom
Located 15.76 km from South Hams, Blackpool Sands holds a Blue Flag award for its environmental standards, water quality, and visitor safety. The beach is open throughout its operating season, though you should check local safety arrangements before your visit. May, June, and September offer…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Blackpool Sands
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Blackpool Sands?
Located 15.76 km from South Hams, Blackpool Sands holds a Blue Flag award for its environmental standards, water quality, and visitor safety. The beach is open throughout its operating season, though you should check local safety arrangements before your visit. May, June, and September offer the best conditions for a trip. The Blue Flag designation means the beach meets rigorous standards set by the Foundation for Environmental Education, making it a reliable choice for families and those concerned with environmental practices.
It sits alongside certified beaches along England, part of a broader network of certified beaches throughout United Kingdom certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Blackpool Sands faces south toward Atlantic Ocean. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in May, June, September. Direct sun hours follow that facing.
Planning
When to Go: Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 7°C | 4°C | Low |
| Feb | 7°C | 4°C | Low |
| Mar | 8°C | 5°C | Low |
| Apr | 9°C | 6°C | Low |
| May | 12°C | 9°C | Med |
| Jun | 15°C | 12°C | Med |
| Jul | 17°C | 14°C | High |
| Aug | 17°C | 14°C | High |
| Sep | 15°C | 12°C | Med |
| Oct | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
| Nov | 10°C | 7°C | Low |
| Dec | 8°C | 5°C | Low |
The best time to visit Blackpool Sands is May, June, September. Air temperatures peak around 16.7°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 13.7°C in July.
How crowded does Blackpool Sands get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in United Kingdom, Blackpool Sands sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Blackpool Sands open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (typically July–September). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Blackpool Sands
Is Blackpool Sands safe to swim?Blackpool Sands is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. The beach does not have lifeguards stationed on the beach. Swim with appropriate caution.
What is the water temperature at Blackpool Sands?Peak water temperature at Blackpool Sands reaches around 13.7°C in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 7.3°C.
What is the beach like at Blackpool Sands?Blackpool Sands on the England coast of United Kingdom. It meets all Blue Flag criteria for environmental management, water quality, safety, and facilities.
Does Blackpool Sands have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Blackpool Sands meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Parking is available nearby.
Blackpool Sands sits on the Atlantic Ocean: explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Atlantic.
Transport
Getting to Blackpool Sands
How do I get to Blackpool Sands by car?Blackpool Sands is approximately 15.76 km from South Hams. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Blackpool Sands?The nearest airport is London Heathrow Airport (LHR), approximately 256.1 km away.
Can I get to Blackpool Sands by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to South Hams. The nearest recorded bus stop is 82 m from the beach.
Is there a train to Blackpool Sands?Blackpool Sands lists Kingswear as the nearest railway station, 4.23 km away. Check current timetables before travelling.
Nearby
Near Blackpool Sands
Mapped toilets, bus stops, cafés, parking, and shops within about 500 m of Blackpool Sands. Distances are walking-line estimates from the beach pin.
Map loads when you ask. Tiles stay off the first paint.
Map: OpenStreetMap (ODbL)
Bus near Blackpool Sands
- Blackpool beach Bus stop 82 m
- Bus stop Bus stop 98 m
Cafés near Blackpool Sands
- Venus Café Café 31 m
Parking near Blackpool Sands
- Blackpool Beach parking Parking 54 m
- Overflow parking Parking 72 m
- Parking Parking 128 m
Source: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Names and positions come from mapped OSM features. Confirm on site.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free: no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✗ |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Beach Type | Coastal beach |
| Parking | ✓ Available nearby (surface parking) |
| Nearest supermarket | 930 m from the beach |
| Nearest bus stop | 82 m from the beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 50.3194°N, 3.6101°W |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), United Kingdom |
Frequently Asked Questions
Blackpool Sands FAQ
Is Blackpool Sands suitable for children?
Blackpool Sands has a child-friendly score of 1/10. Facilities include parking. It is Blue Flag certified in United Kingdom.
Is Blackpool Sands free to access?
Access to Blackpool Sands is free. There are no entry fees to enter the beach. It is a Blue Flag certified beach in England, United Kingdom, recognised for meeting international standards for water quality and environmental management.
When is the best time to visit Blackpool Sands?
The best time to visit Blackpool Sands is May, June, September. The peak season typically runs High season: July, August, when weather conditions and facilities are at their best. Peak water temperature reaches around 13.7°C in July. Outside peak season, the beach is quieter but some facilities may be reduced.
What is the water quality at Blackpool Sands?
Blackpool Sands is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict EU Bathing Water Directive standards. Blue Flag certification is awarded and reviewed annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Beaches must pass water quality tests throughout the season to retain their status.
How do I get to Blackpool Sands?
Blackpool Sands is located in England, United Kingdom. It is approximately 15.76 km from South Hams. The nearest airport is London Heathrow Airport (LHR), 256.1 km away. By car is the most flexible option. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules to the area.
Is there a bus near Blackpool Sands?
Yes. OpenStreetMap maps a public-transport stop 82 m from Blackpool Sands (Blackpool beach), plus 1 more within about 500 m. Check current timetables before you travel. © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Are there cafés near Blackpool Sands?
Yes. OpenStreetMap lists a café or restaurant near Blackpool Sands, including Venus Café (31 m). Hours and seasonal opening are not verified here. Check on the day. © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Is there parking near Blackpool Sands?
Yes. OpenStreetMap maps parking 54 m from Blackpool Sands (Blackpool Beach parking), with 3 lots or spaces inside about 500 m. Charges and time limits are not recorded here. © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Explore More
Nearby Blue Flag Beaches
Editorial
From the Zeach Blog
Everything you need to know about what makes a beach qualify for Blue Flag status, from water quality to environmental education.
Read moreOur editorial team's pick of the standout Blue Flag beaches in United Kingdom, rated for family friendliness, scenery, and facilities.
Explore United KingdomWhat the flag actually means, how certification works, and why a Blue Flag is a genuinely reliable signal, not just a marketing tool.
Read moreSources
- Foundation for Environmental Education: Blue Flag programme
- FEE site listing for Blackpool Sands
- Keep Britain Tidy / Foundation for Environmental Education
Last verified September 2026. National operator pages and FEE listings are the primary certification sources.