Strete Gate Beach

Strete Gate is a section of the Slapton Sands shingle bar at its northern end, below the village of Strete and the cliffs that rise steeply above the coast road. The setting is straightforward: a wide shingle beach directly accessible from a car park off the A379, with toilets at the entrance and a food wagon serving hot drinks and snacks on most days during the season. The bar stretches away south towards Torcross with nothing to interrupt the walk, and the views out to Start Point on clear days are exceptional. It is less visited than the Torcross end and tends to be quieter, which suits those looking for a no-fuss beach walk rather than a full day out.

Dogs are welcome at Strete Gate all year with no restrictions, and the flat, wide shingle walk is one of the easier dog-friendly beach options in the South Hams regardless of season. The beach is accessible at all tide states and the shingle bar does not disappear at high water. The car park charges apply but the access from vehicle to beach is genuinely immediate, which makes it useful for a quick stop as well as a longer visit. The Cafe By The Sea food wagon is a welcome addition on cooler days when something warm to drink makes the difference.