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Our Top Spots to eat and enjoy the first of the Spring sunshine
- Harriet Taylor
- Mar 5
- 3 min read
As the first warm days of Spring arrive and the town shakes off the last of winter, there’s nothing better than dining al fresco, soaking up the sunshine, and enjoying fresh, local flavours with a sea view. Whether it’s a leisurely lunch by the water, a quick bite to take to the beach, or an ice cream enjoyed along the harbour, Salcombe has plenty of spots to make the most of the sunshine. Here are some of our favourites.
The Winking Prawn – Beachside BBQ & Laid-Back Vibes
A Salcombe institution, The Winking Prawn is the perfect place for a laid-back meal with a view. Just steps from North Sands Beach, it’s ideal for a post-swim breakfast, a leisurely seafood lunch, or even just a coffee and cake. The outdoor seating area is a sun trap, and there’s a relaxed, beachy vibe that makes you feel like you’re on holiday—even if you’re only here for the day.
The Crab Shed – Fresh Seafood with an Estuary View
For seafood lovers, The Crab Shed is a must. Tucked beside the fish quay, this little gem serves up the freshest Salcombe crab, lobster, and locally caught fish. The suntrap terrace is the perfect spot to linger over a seafood platter or a crab sandwich while watching the boats come and go.
The Wardroom – Coffee, Brunch & Light Bites Overlooking the Harbour
If you’re after a relaxed spot for a coffee, brunch, or a light lunch, The Wardroom is just the place. Sitting right on the water’s edge, it has one of the best views in town—perfect for watching the comings and goings of the harbour with a cappuccino in hand. Whether it’s a freshly baked pastry, a crisp salad, or a classic crab sandwich, this casual café is a great place to soak up the sunshine.
South Sands Hotel – Beachfront Drinks & Dining
For those who love a touch of luxury in a relaxed setting, South Sands Hotel is the perfect spot. This stylish yet unpretentious beachside hotel has a terrace right on the sands, making it an unbeatable location for a long, lazy lunch or afternoon drinks with a view. Their wine list is excellent, the service is effortlessly polished, and the whole place has a breezy, elegant charm that makes you want to settle in for the day.
Grab & Go: Salcombe Deli or The Bake House – Picnic Perfection
Sometimes, the best way to enjoy the sunshine is with a picnic on the beach. Swing by Salcombe Deli or The Bake House to pick up a freshly made sandwich, a sausage roll, or a pasty before hopping on the ferry over to East Portlemouth Beach. With soft sands and stunning views back towards Salcombe, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed lunch by the sea.
The Ferry Inn – A Pint with a View
A true Salcombe classic, The Ferry Inn is one of the best places to enjoy a relaxed pint and a bite to eat in the sun. The terrace overlooks the water, and it’s the perfect place to watch the world go by. Whether you fancy a casual pub lunch or just a quick drink, it’s a must-visit when the sun is shining.
Gara Rock – Wild Clifftop Views & Indulgent Dining
For a breathtaking meal with a view, Gara Rock is hard to beat. Perched on the cliffs beyond East Portlemouth, this stylish hideaway has a sun-drenched terrace perfect for long lunches or sunset drinks, with a menu celebrating fresh, local produce. The best part? You can make a day of it with a stunning coastal walk from Salcombe, following the South West Coast Path before rewarding yourself with a delicious meal and a sea breeze.
Salcombe Dairy Ice Cream – The Sweetest Taste of Spring
No sunny day in Salcombe is complete without an ice cream from Salcombe Dairy. Made just up the road in Devon, their ice cream is as rich and creamy as it gets. Whether you go for classic vanilla, indulgent honeycomb, or a scoop of locally Salcombe mud (chocolate), it’s the perfect treat for a stroll along the harbour.
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