Goodrington

A big, gently shelving Torbay beach split by the Middle Stone headland into South Sands (the larger sandy stretch, this profile's focus) and North Sands — a long-standing English Riviera family favourite next to Paignton Zoo and the Goodrington Sands miniature railway.

Beach & safety

Water quality: Good

Lifeguard: RNLI seasonal lifeguard cover in the main summer season — confirm exact 2026 dates locally

Hazards: Sheltered bay with generally calm conditions; South West Water has committed to improving Goodrington and Paignton beaches to 'Excellent' by 2030, implying occasional short-term water-quality dips.

Amenities: toilets · cafe · car-park · promenade · lifeguard

Dogs

Official source: View the rule at source →

Family

Large, flat, sheltered sandy beach with a miniature railway, splash park, cafes and Paignton Zoo right next door — one of Torbay's most family-geared beaches.

Fishing

The broad sandy sections support bass, flatfish and night species, while rocky ends and the central headland add pollack, wrasse and summer pelagics. Early, late and off-season sessions reduce conflict with family use.

Species reported: Bass, Plaice, Flounder, Dab, Whiting, Lesser-spotted dogfish, Rays, Pollack, Ballan wrasse, Mackerel, Garfish

Crabbing

unknown — Rock pools and park facilities do not establish a safe line-crabbing location.

Access & parking

Direct beach access from Tanners Road car park and the Goodrington seafront. Sat-nav: TQ4 6LP. Get directions →