When you think of seaside breaks in Devon, Paignton often makes the shortlist. And for good reason. This stretch of the English Riviera has sandy beaches, family attractions, and classic holiday entertainment. If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Paignton, don’t fret: there’s plenty here to keep the whole family entertained. From paddling at Paignton Sands to exploring the famous Paignton zoo, there’s something here for all ages and budgets too.
This guide walks through the highlights, keeping things practical, straightforward, and designed to help you plan without the guesswork.
Beaches and seafront attractions
Paignton is built around its beaches, and most visitors head straight for the seafront. Paignton Sands is the most famous: a long golden sweep with safe, shallow water that makes it perfect for families. Hire a deckchair, grab an ice cream, and let the day run at an easy pace.
If you want somewhere quieter, Goodrington Sands is just south of the main town below Roundham. It’s split into North and South Sands, with colourful beach huts lining the shore. South Sands is dog-friendly year-round, which is useful if you’re travelling with pets.
For something a little different, there’s Broadsands Beach between Paignton and Brixham. With its wide, flat sand and views across Torbay, it’s a popular spot for paddleboarding and beach cricket.
On the seafront itself, traditional amusements still thrive. The Paignton Pier is filled with arcade games and fairground rides. Families will also enjoy the nearby Geoplay Park, a free, dinosaur-themed adventure playground built on Paignton’s geological heritage. Everything’s right by the beach, so it’s easy to combine with a paddle.
Family-friendly experiences
Families don’t run out of Paignton things to do. Beyond the sandcastles and arcades, the town has several attractions that have kept generations of children entertained.
Paignton Zoo Environmental Park is the big one. Home to over 2,500 animals, it’s more than a fantastic day out that includes an education in conservation. The park is large, so pace yourself, but kids will love spotting everything from giraffes to crocodiles.
Another family favourite is the Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway, which runs from Paignton to Kingswear. The vintage carriages and coastal views make it a nostalgic trip for adults and an adventure for children. You can link the ride with a ferry to Dartmouth for a full day out.
Pirates Bay Adventure Golf is an 18-hole, pirate-themed crazy golf course with a pirate ship, cannons, water features, and rope bridges.
And, if you’re visiting in summer, the Splashdown Quaywest Waterpark at Goodrington offers slides, flumes, and pools with sea views. It’s a brilliant day out for the whole family.
Nature and wildlife activities
One of the most appealing things to do Paignton is simply to enjoy its natural setting. The town is close to countryside, cliffs, and nature reserves, so you don’t need to travel far to feel outdoorsy.
The standout is, of course, the Paignton Zoo Environmental Park, but that’s just the start. The nearby Clennon Valley Lakes are great for birdwatching and peaceful walks. Pack binoculars if you want to spot kingfishers and herons.
Head south and you’ll find Occombe Farm, a working farm and nature trail that’s ideal for younger children. There’s a play barn, farm animals, and a café that makes a good stop for lunch.
Walkers can pick up sections of the South West Coast Path from Paignton. The stretch to Brixham via Broadsands is scenic but not too demanding, with sea views all the way. If you’re wondering what to do in Paignton on a sunny afternoon, this walk is one of the simplest options.
Dining and local shops
Seaside towns live and die by their food, and Paignton covers all the bases. Expect a mix of casual fish and chip shops, mid-range pubs, and a handful of more refined options.
For a straightforward bite, grab fish and chips from the seafront and eat them on the pier. If you’d like a sit-down meal, Cantina Kitchen & Bar near Goodrington Sands is a local, dog-friendly favourite, serving everything from breakfasts to seafood specials. Families often head to The Spinning Wheel Inn, a traditional pub close to the harbour with live music in the evenings. If you feel like splashing out a bit, The Local Gastro Bar And Grill is known for its freshly-caught seafood dishes and locally-sourced meats.
If you want something a bit different, Paignton also has Indian, Italian, and Thai restaurants dotted around the centre, so you’re not short of variety.
Shopping in Paignton is a mix of high street names and independent spots. The town centre has the usual fashion and gift shops, but wander further and you’ll find small galleries, seaside souvenir shops, and a growing number of local food outlets. These are good places to pick up Devon fudge, cream teas, or cider to take home.
Nearby day-trip ideas
Paignton works well as a base for exploring the rest of Torbay and South Devon. When you’ve ticked off the things to do at Paignton, there are plenty of easy day-trips.
- Torquay is just a short, 15-minute drive or bus ride away, with its larger harbour, Torre Abbey Sands, and nightlife. Our full Torquay guide covers more detail.
- Brixham offers a working harbour and some of the best seafood in Devon.
- Inland, Totnes is worth a wander for its independent shops and historic high street.
- For beaches, Blackpool Sands and Slapton Sands are both within reach and offer completely different atmospheres.
- And if you fancy a bigger adventure, Dartmoor National Park is about 40 minutes away.
All are simple to reach by car, and many are served by local buses and trains, meaning you don’t have to drive if you’d rather leave the car behind.
Paignton is worth a visit
Paignton may be smaller than its Riviera neighbours, but it more than holds its own. Beaches, a zoo, a steam railway, crazy golf, and enough family attractions to keep children busy for a week — it’s easy to see why so many visitors return year after year. Whether you’re planning a short break or a full summer holiday, there are plenty of things to do in Paignton that suit all ages and budgets.
To make the most of it, you’ll want a comfortable base. Fresh Escapes offers everything from seaside apartments within walking distance of the pier to larger holiday homes with gardens and hot tubs. Whichever you choose, you’ll be close to the coast and perfectly placed to explore Paignton and beyond.
Book your stay with Fresh Escapes and start planning your South Devon getaway today.
