This year’s sailing season is in full swing, with sail boats, speed boats and personal watercrafts already making a splash in the River Tamar and Plymouth Sound. With the weather finally looking up, now is the perfect time to start planning more days out on the water as we move closer to summer.
King Point Marina is perfectly situated to explore the best cruising grounds in the South West, with the River Tamar and River Yealm right on your doorstep, leading to a spectacular array of seaside towns and beauty spots.
Destinations along the Devon and Cornwall coastline offer superb lunchtime spots, ice cream shops and places to stay when sailing further afield – here are some of our favourites:
A SPOT OF LUNCH
Where better to have a bite to eat than in a seaside town with a breath-taking view? Luckily for us, there are plenty to choose from in the South of England, and all within a short sail from Plymouth.
Barn Pool
To the west of Drake’s Island, Barn Pool is a sheltered, peaceful bay which offers easy access to the Mount Edgcumbe Country Park estate. Here, you can explore the gorgeous grounds, take a tour of the historic house and enjoy a meal at The Orangery restaurant or at The Edgcumbe Arms just outside the estate. This destination is a short sail from the marina and is an ideal spot for a day out and midday meal.
Cawsand Bay
A beautiful location alongside the twin villages of Kingsand and Cawsand and west of Plymouth Breakwater, Cawsand Bay is a popular destination with atmospheric local pubs and independent corner shops on hand. The bay looks over Plymouth Sound and is a safe area for swimming, kayaking and paddle boarding. Cawsand is an idyllic location and great for families.
Noss Mayo & Newton Ferrers
Along the River Yealm are the villages of Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers. The villages lie within the South Devon Area of Outstanding National Beauty and are surrounded by countryside walks with local pubs including, The Ship Inn (Noss Mayo), The Swan Inn (Noss Mayo) and The Dolphin Inn (Newton Ferrers).
Looe
One of the most popular seaside towns in Cornwall, Looe is lined with pubs, restaurants and cafés as well as clothing and gift shops. East and West Looe stand either side of a tidal river and is a great spot for a family day out. The town has a large, attractive beach and hosts events throughout the year.
GOING FURTHER AFIELD
If you don’t want to stay close to home, sail further along the Cornish coastline for a longer day’s sailing or an overnight stay.
Fowey
At the mouth of the River Fowey, this small town has a large, deep water harbour which is accessible 24 hours a day and is used frequently by commercial vessels. Fowey has a vast array of independent shops as well as restaurants, cafés and bistros, many offering local produce. The town is set in an Area of Outstanding Beauty and has attractions including the Fowey Museum and Fowey Aquarium.
Falmouth
Falmouth is well-known for its deep natural harbour, coastal culture and extensive maritime history. The town hosts numerous events, such as Falmouth Regatta and the Pendennis Cup, and is a great location for water sports. As well as a variety of pubs, restaurants and cafés, Falmouth also offers attractions including the multi-award winning National Maritime Museum Cornwall, Pendennis Castle and Falmouth Art Gallery.
Penzance
Located 65 nautical miles from King Point Marina, Penzance is a popular Cornish holiday destination with a wide range of eateries, shops and attractions. Entrance to the harbour is easily accessible through dock gates which are open from two hours before high tide and until one hour after. When the tide is out, you can walk across the beach to the famous St Michael’s Mount.
Isles of Scilly
The Isles of Scilly lie 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall with five inhabited islands, the largest of which is St Mary’s. This tropical paradise feels a world away from mainland Britain however, with stunning views and luxurious beaches. The islands have a variety of local shops, restaurant and pubs as well as attractions such as the Tresco Abbey Garden and St Martin’s Vineyard.
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