Family fun, fresh sea air, and unforgettable coastal adventures await!
Looking for the perfect UK family getaway this May Half Term? With the spring sunshine, a bonus Bank Holiday weekend and everything in full swing for the season, South Devon is bursting with reasons to escape. If you’re considering a May Half Term stay in South Devon, exciting attractions and golden beaches to scenic walks and cosy seaside pubs, there’s no better time to enjoy a break with the whole family.
At Saltwater Escapes, we have a handpicked collection of stunning family-friendly holiday homes available this May Half Term — perfect for recharging, reconnecting, and making memories.
Explore South Devon’s Coastline This May Half Term
South Devon is famous for its award-winning beaches, rugged cliffs and the sparkling waters of the English Riviera. Furthermore, in May, everything starts to bloom and the coast comes alive with colour and energy — it’s ideal for:
- Paddleboarding, rockpooling and beach games on family-friendly sandy shores like Goodrington Sands, Broadsands and Blackpool Sands
- Walking the South West Coast Path, with panoramic views and picnic stops along the way
- Boat trips from Brixham or Dartmouth where you can spot both seals, seabirds and maybe even dolphins!
- Sunshine-filled beach days without the summer crowds
- Exploring charming coastal towns and villages like Dartmouth, Salcombe and Kingswear before the peak summer season.
- Enjoying quieter visits to popular attractions such as Paignton Zoo, Babbacombe Model Village and Dartmoor National Park.
Top May Half Term Attractions for Families
May is the perfect time to dive into South Devon’s most popular attractions — all open and buzzing with half-term activities!
- Splashdown Quaywest – The UK’s largest outdoor waterpark! Located in Paignton, it’s packed with both water slides and splash zones — ideal for thrill-seeking families on sunny days.
- Paignton Zoo – Home to over 2,000 animals, from giraffes to gorillas. Educational, interactive, and full of fun for all ages.
- Dartmouth Steam Railway – Ride a vintage steam train along the stunning coast from Paignton to Dartmouth, then hop on a river boat for a full day of adventure.
- Babbacombe Model Village – Wander through miniature worlds and intricate scenes, a charming attraction enjoyed by all generations.
- Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves – Explore fascinating underground caverns and learn about the ancient history of the region.
- Pennywell Farm – Experience hands-on animal encounters, tractor rides, and a variety of farm activities perfect for younger children.
- Dartmoor National Park – Explore the rugged beauty of the moorland, go for hikes, spot wild ponies, and enjoy the vast open spaces.
- Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery (RAMM) – Discover fascinating exhibits spanning natural history, world cultures, and fine art. RAMM often hosts family-friendly activities and trails, making learning engaging for all ages.
- Exeter Cathedral – Explore this magnificent cathedral with its stunning architecture and rich history. Children can often participate in guided tours or activity sheets designed for younger visitors.
Step Into History and Adventure
South Devon is rich in heritage, with plenty of immersive experiences for curious young minds and grown-ups alike:
- Dartmouth Castle – A riverside fortress where imaginations run wild. Kids will love exploring the towers and cannons.
- Torre Abbey – Discover 800 years of history, beautiful gardens, and half-term family trails in the heart of Torquay.
- Greenway – Visit Agatha Christie’s holiday home and explore magical woodland trails with views over the River Dart.
- Berry Pomeroy Castle: Explore the atmospheric ruins of a Tudor mansion within the walls of an Iron Age hillfort, steeped in legend and mystery.
- Totnes Museum: Discover the fascinating history of this unique town, from its medieval origins to its alternative present.
- Coleton Fishacre: Step back in time at this elegant Art Deco house and its enchanting coastal gardens, once home to the D’Oyly Carte family.
Rainy Day & Relaxed Activities
Even if the clouds decide to make an appearance, there’s no shortage of ways to keep the little ones entertained. Many local attractions, such as Occombe Farm and Torre Abbey, often host engaging craft workshops during half-term. For those needing to burn off some energy indoors, there are fantastic indoor play centres like Bear Feet in Newton Abbot, The Play Café in Torquay, and Brixham Soft Play. Alternatively, a visit to one of the region’s wonderful farm shops and markets offers the chance to pick up delicious local treats and unique handmade goodies to enjoy back at your comfortable holiday home.
Delicious Local Food & Family Dining in South Devon
When it’s time to refuel after your South Devon adventures, you’ll find a delightful array of options to satisfy every craving. Picture enjoying fresh fish and chips right by the harbour wall, indulging in a traditional pub roast with stunning sea views at a cosy family-friendly pub (often with dedicated kids’ menus), or savouring the finest local catch at a seafood restaurant. For a delightful afternoon treat, charming villages offer inviting cream teas and tempting cake stops. Alternatively, the region’s fantastic farm shops provide a wealth of ready-to-cook local produce, perfect for creating relaxed and delicious dinners in the comfort of your holiday home.
Your Perfect May Half Term Stay
Our Saltwater Escapes holiday homes are made for family breaks — stylish, comfortable and located close to South Devon’s best beaches and attractions.
- Stylish and comfortable family homes: Enjoy well-designed and comfortable spaces perfect for family relaxation.
- Prime locations near beaches & attractions: Our homes are situated close to South Devon’s best beaches and popular family attractions.
- Freedom and flexibility of self-catering: Benefit from fully equipped kitchens for preparing family meals at your own pace.
- Outside spaces to enjoy: Many properties offer safe, enclosed gardens for kids to play and for adults to partake in some al fresco dining.
- Pet-friendly options available: Bring the whole family along – some of our homes welcome well-behaved pets.
- Ideal base for May Half Term adventures: Conveniently located for accessing all that the region has to offer during the school holidays.
Book Your May Half Term Getaway Today
This May Half Term, treat your family to fresh air, freedom and fun on the beautiful South Devon coast. With a bonus Bank Holiday weekend and a packed calendar of things to do, now’s the time to book your escape before availability disappears! Contact us and book your stay today and start looking forward to a week of adventure, fun and relaxation.
We can’t wait to welcome you!
