Watersports in Torquay: Boat Trips, Kayaking & Sea Adventures from Cary Arms

Why Torquay is such a strong base for watersports

With its stunning location and naturally sheltered aspect, Torquay is one of the best places for activities and watersports in the South West. Overlooking the glistening sweep of Tor Bay, it offers easy access to some of the county’s most gorgeous coastline. And, protected by the headlands of Hope’s Nose and Berry Head, as well as its own harbour walls, it often enjoys calm conditions for getting out on the water. Making the most of the setting, a variety of local operators lead regular tours from Torquay Harbour, as well as boat trips and equipment hire. That said, if you’re an experienced water enthusiast, you can also set off with a friend and explore the beautiful headlands, quiet coves, and sandy beaches that decorate the coastline yourself.

Boat trips in Torquay for sightseeing and wildlife

The coastline around Torquay is some of the most beautiful in Devon, framed by towering cliffs topped with lush greenery and lapped by crystalline sea. While it’s a delight to explore the coastline on foot, heading out on a boat trip offers a particularly memorable way to absorb the views and enjoy a new perspective of the area. Fortunately, sightseeing cruises and wildlife-watching boat trips regularly depart from Torquay’s marina in season (usually late spring to early autumn) and offer an unmissable take on coastal excursions. Suitable for all generations, they offer an idyllic introduction to the bay, and often reveal sights of seabirds, seals, and even dolphins. Local operators include Torquay Watersports, who offer a range of trips from the marina.

The best places for kayaking in Torquay Bay

With miles of beautiful coastline, Torquay and Tor Bay offer a number of places from which to push off the shore and glide through crystal-clear water. For larger marine vessels, the harbours and marinas of Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham offer the best port of call. However, for smaller vessels for watersports in Torquay and beyond, the area’s coves and beaches promise safer, less congested ways to launch. Oddicombe Beach has a concrete slipway and is often used by local operators; however, the walk from the nearest car park can prove challenging with heavy equipment. The walk to Ansteys is not as far, and this is a popular place for launching kayaks and paddleboards (there’s also a self-serve board inflation station here that can be used for a nominal fee). Other popular beaches for launching include Babbacombe Beach, Meadfoot Beach (Torquay), Paignton Sands, Preston Sands, Goodrington Sands, Broadsands Beach, and Breakwater. 

Paddleboarding and beginner-friendly watersports

Watersports in Torquay are for everyone, and many activities can be easily adjusted to accommodate a range of ages and abilities. To boost confidence and polish skills, it’s always a great idea to sign up with local tour guides. This is particularly beneficial if you’re heading out with beginners or young paddlers. Well-known local guides include Reach Outdoors, Sea Kayak Torbay, and Paddle Devon, all of which run tours from beaches and coves within easy reach of Cary Arms. 

Faster-paced sea adventures for thrill seekers

If you’re looking for something a little more fast-paced, then you are sure to find watersports in Torquay to suit your taste for adventure. Particularly tempting, Torquay Watersports offer a range of boat excursions departing from Torquay Marina. These include high-performance RIB rides aboard their aptly named Raptor. Lasting for half an hour, these exhilarating trips are powered by three V8 300hp Mercury Verado engines and feature hair-blasting outings across the bay for thrill-seekers aged 10 and over. 

Practical tips for planning watersports in Torquay

If you’re considering the best places for watersports activities in Torquay and beyond, then a little planning can go a long way. For the safest way to enjoy watersports in Torquay, it’s a great idea to sign up for guided tours with local experts. That said, if you’d like to enjoy a self-led trip, make sure you head out with at least one friend and let loved ones know your intended route. Research the area before you leave and make sure you are aware of the local sea conditions, weather, and tide times. When in doubt, you can also check in with your local lifeguards or RNLI station for advice. Of course, water, suncream, and snacks are essential, as well as a waterproof phone case and waterproof bag.

Why Cary Arms is a natural base for sea adventures in Torquay

Set on the waterfront above Babbacombe Bay, Cary Arms & Spa couldn’t be more perfectly placed for coastal adventures. Just a stone’s throw from the picturesque shore, our stunning location ensures you’re always in the right place for making the most of the conditions, whilst our gorgeous sea views encourage you to sit back and relax at the start and end of each day. Take a look at our range of luxurious beach huts, cottages, rooms and suites and start planning your dream holiday to Devon, filled with all the paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, and bathing you could possibly wish for. We also have dog-friendly options, too.