The Ultimate Guide to Dawlish Warren: Beaches, Nature & Family Fun

Why Dawlish Warren Is Perfect for a Devon Family Holiday

Dawlish Warren is the perfect location for your next family getaway. Offering all the attractions of a traditional seaside resort in an outstanding natural environment, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

The award-winning Blue Flag beach offers clean golden sands and safe shallow waters, while the amusement arcades, mini golf, go-karts, and family-friendly cafés create a fun and welcoming environment for all ages. 

Nature lovers can also explore the stunning Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve, where coastal walks, sand dunes, and birdwatching add another dimension to your stay. 

For guests at Hazelwood Holiday Park, Dawlish Warren is even more appealing thanks to its easy access, allowing families to leave the car behind and enjoy the beach and attractions just moments away.

Dawlish Warren Beach - One of Devon’s Best Family Beaches

One of the main draws for families visiting Dawlish is its award-winning beach. Known for its long stretch of golden sand and safe, shallow waters, Dawlish Warren Beach has had Blue Flag status for more than 20 years. This means you can relax knowing that the beach and water meet strict cleanliness criteria. 

Plus, with a regular lifeguard on patrol during peak season, families with young children get extra reassurance.

Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve - A Haven for Wildlife Lovers

Perfect for birdwatchers, keen photographers, or those seeking just seeking some peace, Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve is one of Devon’s most remarkable natural attractions. 

The dunes, grasslands and mud flats are home to over 600 flowering plant species. And thanks to its position within the Exe Estuary Special Protection Area, it is a sanctuary for migratory birds throughout the year.

The on-site visitor centre offers everyone the chance to learn more about the incredible flora and fauna at the reserve. While guided walks offer you the chance to hear firsthand about the area from the wardens. 

Family Fun & Attractions in Dawlish Warren

One of the best things to do in Dawlish for families is visit the famous Dawlish Warren fun park - Funder Park Funfair. Sitting on the beachfront, the pirate-themed amusement park offers the perfect mix of classic fairground attractions and outdoor games. So, it’s sure to keep you and your little ones entertained.

Another big draw for those looking for traditional seaside amusement is Pavilion Amusements. With coin pushers, claw machines and other classic games, young and old can enjoy competing for tickets which can then be exchanged for prizes. 

For something a little different, visitors may enjoy visiting The Paint Hub pottery studio. You can have a go at painting your very own pottery or even create your own bear. Plus, as there’s no need to book in advance, you can pop down and have a go whenever it takes your fancy. 

Dawlish Warren Beach Library also hosts regular events, so it’s worth checking out if you’re looking for a rainy-day activity or a break from the beach. 

Things to Do in Dawlish Town

The great thing about Dawlish is that it’s not all about the beach; there are plenty of things to see and do in the town.

In the centre of town, you’ll discover The Lawn, an area of open, well-maintained parkland. Here you can enjoy a gentle stroll, take a picnic or kick a ball around. 

A gentle stream known as The Brook meanders through The Lawn and is home to stunning black swans. Native to Australia, the swans were first brought over to Devon in 1906 and have been a hit with tourists ever since.  

For culture lovers, Dawlish Museum is a must-visit destination. Best known for its display of Piper Bill Millins’ D-Day bagpipes played on Sword Beach during the D-Day landings. It is also packed with other local artefacts that depict life past and present in the town.

Coastal Walks & Outdoor Adventures

Outdoor lovers will find plenty to enjoy in Dawlish Warren. Keen walkers can take on a section of the South West Coast Path or explore the dunes and open shoreline of Dawlish Warren Spit. 

Other options to explore include the Exe Estuary Trail, a scenic walking and cycling route that runs along the Exe Estuary. While the traffic-free 32-mile Tarka Trail cycle route is perfect for families to enjoy together.  

Meanwhile, for water lovers, the calm estuary conditions are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, especially for beginners. 

Eating, Drinking & Relaxing

When it comes to food, Dawlish Warren has something for everyone. As well as family-friendly pubs serving up everything from hearty meals to beach snacks, dotted throughout the town, you’ll find plenty of fish and chip restaurants for a traditional seaside treat. There are also plenty of cosy cafes where you can enjoy a traditional Devon cream tea. 

If you’d rather pack up a picnic, there are lots of grassy areas and dunes near the beach and nature reserve where you can enjoy your sandwiches. Plus, you can always pick up an ice cream, doughnuts or some seaside rock at one of the many takeaway kiosks dotted along the coast. 

Staying at Hazelwood Holiday Park

For Devon family holidays with a difference, Hazelwood Holiday Park is the perfect destination for your next getaway. 

Set in 38 acres of grounds, you can choose from luxury lodges with hot tubs, chalet-style apartments, and even dog-friendly accommodation, so every member of the family can come on holiday.

Plus, our location, within walking distance of the beach and many of Dawlish Warren’s top attractions, means we’re perfectly situated to allow you to make the most of Dawlish.