Torquay
Torquay is one of the best places to stay in Devon if you want a mix of traditional seaside charm and lively town atmosphere. There are plenty of things to do in Torquay, like spending a day on the glorious Torre Abbey Sands beach, having a picnic in Abbey Park or enjoying an evening in the Torquay Theatre.
Accommodation ranges from beachfront apartments where you can watch the sunrise over the bay, to tucked-away holiday homes a short walk from the marina. Many holiday homes also welcome dogs, and a handful come with hot tubs for unwinding under the stars.
Teignmouth
Teignmouth sits at the mouth of the River Teign, making it one of the best places to stay in Devon for a gentler seaside pace. Many properties lie within a five-minute walk of Teignmouth Beach, so you can pop out for a dawn paddle or dog walk before breakfast. Wander along the historic pier at low tide, then refuel at one of the many fantastic Teignmouth restaurants.
Accommodation in Teignmouth includes riverside apartments, cosy cottages, and even some of the best places to stay in Devon with hot tub—perfect for some relaxation after a day of coastal walks.
Exeter
Historic Exeter serves as both a cultural hub and a gateway to the wider county, making it one of the best places to stay in Devon. Stroll through the medieval lanes toward the cathedral, enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafés, or consider a coastal day trip from Exeter to Torquay. If you're travelling with a furry friend and have worked up an appetite, check out restaurants like The Fat Pig and Cosy Club.
Accommodation options range from stylish city-centre apartments to riverside cottages overlooking the Exe. Whether you want to explore independent shops by day or unwind in a loft apartment by night, Exeter delivers.
Dartmouth
Nestled on the banks of the River Dart, Dartmouth easily ranks among the best places to stay in Devon for couples. Amble down the riverside, stop for a coffee on a terrace, or savour fresh seafood in waterfront restaurants before slipping back to your accommodation. When you're not sipping coffee at a café on the quay, you can take a ferry ride upstream to Dittisham or head across to Greenway, Agatha Christie's former holiday home.
Properties here range from elegant townhouses with harbour views to contemporary apartments a stone's throw from busy quay-side pubs. If a sunset paddle or a lazy morning on a riverside balcony appeals, Dartmouth is your spot.
Salcombe
Salcombe's sparkling waters and pastel façades make it a standout among places to stay in Devon by the sea. Spend mornings wandering the winding high street, browsing boutiques, then catch the ferry to North Sands. The Kingsbridge Estuary is perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding or, if you prefer sticking to dry land, the South West Coast Path is perfect for hiking.
Accommodation ranges from sleek harbour-view apartments to cosy cottages near South Sands and North Sands beaches. If romance is your goal, Salcombe remains one of the best places to stay in Devon for couples, with endless coastal views.
Lustleigh
Venture inland to Lustleigh, a picture-postcard village on the edge of Dartmoor and a top pick among places to stay in Devon for those craving countryside tranquillity. Explore ancient woodlands and rolling meadows, all while enjoying fresh countryside air. For walkers and cyclists, Dartmoor's trails start almost on your doorstep. The Cleave Inn is a dog-friendly local pub that serves delicious, locally sourced food. The Primrose Tea Rooms are also dog-friendly and serve scones and cakes that are out of this world.
After a day out discovering Lustleigh, imagine returning to a charming cottage complete with oak beams and wood-burning stove. If you wish to swap coastal breezes for rural stillness, Lustleigh offers the perfect retreat.
Why Devon Is the Ideal Destination for Your Next Trip
Devon's mix of endless coastline, rolling hills, and historic towns gives every visitor a chance to find their ideal base. From Torquay's seaside apartments to Lustleigh's cosy cottages, you'll discover places to stay in Devon that cater to every kind of getaway—whether that's a couple's retreat, a family-friendly hideaway, or a dog-friendly adventure.
At Fresh Escapes, our curated collection of holiday homes offers modern comforts, character features, and thoughtful extras you won't find in a standard hotel. Pick your perfect property, pack your bags, and get ready to uncover the Devon getaway you've been dreaming of.