Opening Times
Months Open
Open all year round
Sugary Cove is a small sandy and shingle cove at the mouth of the River Dart overlooked by Dartmouth castle.
A remote, quiet beach of shingle and rocks, backed by cliffs, rocks and trees.
It can be easy to miss because the beach is hidden by trees until visitors are almost on top of it and there are no signposts.
The beach is about a mile south of the town of Dartmouth. The closest parking is at Dartmouth Castle, about 100 metres from the beach. The castle is a historic fortress overlooking the River Dart estuary and across to Kingswear Castle on the other side. There are toilets and a café at the castle.
From the castle car park, access to the beach is a 5/10 minute walk down a steep path with steps. It is not really suitable for pushchairs or those with mobility problems.
Along the path that leads from the castle there are a few other coves: Castle Cove, Deadmans Cove, and Ladies Cove, all adding to the excitement for would-be-explorers.
The small beach disappears during high tide, so remember to plan your trip around this. Dogs are currently welcome on the beach all year round.
Local Facilities
There is a lovely open grass area with three picnic benches 50m above the cove back up the footpath.
Although there are no sports hire facilities here, you are welcome to bring your own equipment, surf boards, canoes etc.
Other facilities: Picturesque ferry trips from Dartmouth Castle to Dartmouth quay and town centre make a wonderful extra activity.
How to get to Sugary Cove
Access is via the A379 from Dartmouth. The last stretch of road has some narrow sections which coaches wouldn’t manage. The beach is 200m from road down along the coast path followed by 70 steep rock steps. Disabled access is not possible to this beach.
Parking for Sugary Cove
Parking on Castle Road is free. Dartmouth Castle car park pay and display
This beach is completely cut off at high water so be aware of high water time before visit and exit the beach in plenty of time.