Devon is a strategic area for multiple activities due to its location. It's near Cornwall and Dorset, making it a great spot to get an adrenaline dose. Have you thought of kayaking? It has one of the most thrilling sandy beaches in England. You can also encounter fossil cliffs, magical skies, medieval towns and national parks. This boats are one of the best options to explore this breathtaking county.

It's a popular water activity suitable for all levels and ages. This region attracts countless tourists since it's famous for its spectacular coastline, picturesque beaches and Jurassic Coast. Don't worry if you are a complete novice because you'll spot schools and centers specialized in carrying out this activity on every corner.

There is an option for all, from a solo adventure to a family expedition. It's not a surprise that we won't be able to mention every corner and spot for kayaking, but we will try our best to recommend the best places to get an exhilarating paddling adventure. Keep reading to find the best places for doing this sport in this paradisiacal place.

Where to go kayaking in Devon?

- North

• Lee Bay: There is no doubt that our first suggestion. It's a picturesque spot with blue and crystalline waters. It's a quiet venue with flat water where you can explore with your boat for miles, making it a perfect area for novices. You might encounter rocky pools, friendly marine life and seabirds. The water is so clear that you may be able to see the fish swimming. Lee Bay is also an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The best season to visit it is summer, for sure. You will find multiple schools offering tours, courses and expeditions, suiting their packages to your abilities.

• Ilfracombe: You can spot it just two miles from Lee Bay, a traditional and popular tourist destination. You'll encounter towering cliffs, breathtaking coastal scenery and victorian tunnel beaches. It usually has more of a swell, but you can also find a glorious coastline with calmness. Ilfracombe welcomes kayakers of all levels, individuals and families. If you want to enjoy a breathtaking summer, is your ideal venue.

Its victorian tunnel beaches are a fascinating attraction you can't miss. They were hand-carved in the 1820s. It's considered the 3rd most beautiful beach for rock pooling in the UK, meaning it will never disappoint you!

• Combe Martin: If you like to paddle to traverse rock pools, coves and caves, is the perfect destination for a coastal adventure. You can encounter centres providing kayaking hire. You can also have the option to get a excursion or a guided tour. We recommend getting a solo adventure only if you have previous experience since you'll be paddling in deep blue waters. If you are a novice, you can get a tour with an instructor by your side. We guarantee you can enjoy a day soaking up the sun!

• The Exmoor National Park: Is on the edge of Combe Martin. If you notice, the best kayaking areas in the north are close to each other. You can enjoy a river session along the River Barle. It has a grade of 2-3, meaning you'll need an instructor if you are a complete beginner.

It's also the home of multiple important wildlife such as salmon, kingfisher, otters and the unique river jelly lichen. Due to their importance, you can visit this venue from October to March.

- South

• Jurassic Coast: There are countless spots for kayaking in the southside, and we consider the Jurassic Coast the main one. It's a spectacular World Heritage Site, delivering breathtaking coastal scenery. It's the home of ancient backdrops, landmarks and hidden treasures. It has 95 miles of coastline, enabling you to enjoy a expedition like never before.

As you paddle around the place, you'll encounter areas where prehistoric dinosaurs lived, fossils and more. You are welcome to enjoy a kayak-fishing session to relax all your senses.

• Plymouth: You must visit it if you want to enjoy a river experience. It has one of the most stunning natural harbours. The Tamar Valley is an optional venue to enjoy a route. You can explore spectacular spots along the River Tamar, such as the Cotehele Quay, Calstock Viaduct and more. We recommend visiting Plymouth during the summer. You will find calm conditions to enjoy a relaxing experience.

• Dartmouth: Dartmouth is one of the most popular towns to visit in the county. It has multiple options to paddle for an adrenaline rush. The Dart Estuary is a tidal section that allows you to enjoy the fantastic scenery. It's an ideal venue for families and groups of friends. It's completely suitable for beginners. You can even wild camp there. On the other hand, you can encounter the Dart River, a perfect venue for whitewater.

It has different tides, splitting it into three sections. You can come if you are a complete beginner or a more advanced paddler. It's known as the most popular venue for whitewater kayaking in England.

• Torquay: Is the perfect destination for real thrill-seekers. Torquay is usually a crowded venue ideal for expeditions and wild camping. We recommend having an intermediate level in paddling since schools offer day trips most of the time. You can explore relevant points of the area such as the Orestone Rock or St. Mary's Bay.

What do you need to know before doing this activity?

Please be aware that if you are paddling in England, you will mostly be required to have a Waterways License. You can get it through the British Canoeing, the national governing entity. Don't worry about this! Most schools offer affordable prices for groups, couples and families!

Regarding age, in most centers they will ask you to be between 5 and 11 years old to be accompanied by an adult in a double kayak. From the age of 15 and up you can steer your own individual boat. The weight limits in most companies are set at a maximum of 17 stone or 105 kg.

You don't need to own any equipment. You can find the best material in every centre! Now, you don't have an excuse. You got all the details about this activity here. We guarantee you this is the best place for a paddling adventure!