From sandy toes and rock pooling to farm animals, woodland walks and rainy day play, South Devon is made for little explorers.
Here’s our guide to baby- and toddler-friendly days out for curious minds and busy feet.
Beach Days, Boats and Rock Pools
A beach day is hard to beat for little ones; all you need is a bucket and spade and somewhere to paddle. The Blue Flag beach at Dawlish Warren is ideal for sandcastle building and paddling at the water’s edge. With cafes, amusements and facilities close at hand, it’s an easy choice for families with babies and toddlers.
In nearby Dawlish, little ones can watch the famous black swans before heading to Coryton Cove. This small sand-and-shingle beach is a little quieter than Dawlish Warren with rock pools to explore when the tide is out.
Teignmouth is another relaxed option with a wide beach, promenade and traditional pier-side fun. If your toddler loves anything that moves, the Teignmouth to Shaldon ferry is a mini adventure in itself. On the other side, explore Shaldon’s pretty village then search the shore for crabs and tiny sea creatures at low tide.
Elsewhere along the South Devon coast, Broadsands, Goodrington North, Paignton Sands, and Blackpool Sands all offer plenty of scope for a family beach day. Whether you’re looking for sandcastles, paddling, a promenade stroll or somewhere to stop for an ice cream, there’s a beach to suit every kind of little explorer.
Animals, Rides and Farmyard Fun
A short loop around Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve offers plenty to inspire nature-loving toddlers, from dunes and grasses to shells and animal tracks.
At World of Country Life in Exmouth, families can meet farm animals, explore indoor and outdoor play areas, and join daily activities. The deer train safari and chance to walk a pygmy goat are likely to be holiday highlights for animal-loving little ones.
Crealy Theme Park and Resort near Exeter has toddler-friendly rides, animals, indoor play and shows. Sooty Land, Atlantis and the Adventure Zone are great options for pre-schoolers, while older brothers and sisters will find plenty to keep them busy too.
For more traditional farm days, Pennywell Farm and Totnes Rare Breeds Farm offer opportunities to pet, feed and cuddle friendly farm animals. Paignton Zoo offers a different kind of animal adventure, with plenty of species to spot along buggy-friendly paths. If a smaller zoo feels more manageable, Shaldon Zoo is a lovely alternative.
Parks, Trains and Woodland Adventures
South Devon has plenty of space for toddlers to let off steam. Decoy Country Park in Newton Abbot has lakeside paths, play areas and open grass for a picnic, game of ball or relaxed afternoon outdoors.
For a woodland wander, Haldon Forest Park has family-friendly trails where little ones can look for leaves, bugs and birds along the way. Choose a shorter route and allow plenty of time for snack stops and puddle jumping.
Trains are often a world of wonder for toddlers, so a heritage steam train ride on the South Devon Railway is sure to excite. Or take the coastal railway to Exeter and enjoy a buggy-friendly stroll along the Quayside, where little ones can watch the boats and families can stop for lunch or an ice cream.
For a shorter rail adventure, the line between Dawlish Warren and Teignmouth offers sea views and the excitement of travelling by train.
Rainy-Day Play and Indoor Adventures
A little rain doesn’t have to put an end to the fun. Crealy Theme Park and Resort has indoor attractions and soft-play areas, while the Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM) in Exeter offers creative, sensory and story-led activities for under-fives.
When little ones need space to climb, crawl and burn off some energy, soft play is often the answer. Tumbling Ted’s Playhouse in Newton Abbot, Wonderland Play in Newton Abbot and Exeter, and Play Cafe all offer indoor fun designed with babies and toddlers in mind.
Make Welcome Family Your Little Explorer HQ
Welcome Family Holiday Park makes a brilliant base for baby- and toddler-friendly adventures in South Devon. Little ones can splash in the heated indoor pools, enjoy the playground and make new friends in the Kids Zone.
The park’s location is a big bonus too, with Dawlish Warren Beach and National Nature Reserve just a short walk away. It also means you’re within easy reach of every beach, farm, park, train ride and rainy-day activity in this guide.
Check out our range of accommodation and book your baby- and toddler-friendly holiday in South Devon today.