A caravan holiday on the Devon coast works well for families because you get your own space, your own kitchen and the freedom to run the day around the children rather than a breakfast cut-off. Our caravan on Beverley Bay sleeps six: a double bedroom, a twin room and a 3-seater sofa that folds out into another bed. Here are the practical tips we would pass on to any family, based on what the area and the park offer.
Choose the right rhythm
The biggest mistake is over-planning. Aim for one proper outing a day and keep the rest loose. The best days tend to be a morning out, a lunch back at the caravan (you have a full-size oven, fridge freezer, microwave with grill, air fryer and toaster), and an afternoon on the beach, at the play area or at the pool.
Beaches that suit children
Goodrington Sands is under a mile away on foot, downhill on the way there and uphill on the way back, which is worth bearing in mind with tired little legs or a pushchair. There are toilets, a café and a promenade. Torbay's beaches are generally gently shelving and sandy, according to the English Riviera tourism site, but always check conditions and flags on the day and keep a close eye on young swimmers. Pack a bucket, spade and a change of clothes.
If you want the bus rather than the walk, number 23 or 12 will take you to the Torbay Leisure Centre stop, close to the beach and Splashdown.
Things children actually enjoy
- Dartmouth Steam Railway. A 30-minute steam train from Paignton to Kingswear, then a short ferry to Dartmouth. Children who like trains will not need persuading.
- Paignton Zoo. It is a full-day visit across a large site, so take snacks and consider whether younger children will manage all of it. Check the zoo website for what is on.
- Babbacombe Model Village. Good for slower, curious children and a break from the beach.
- Golden Hind replica, Brixham. A moored replica ship in the harbour; the English Riviera site suggests it for would-be pirates.
- Geoplay, Paignton Green. A free climbing playground listed by the tourist board.
- Splashdown Quaywest. For older children and teenagers, with flumes. Check height and age rules on its website.
Using the park
Beverley Bay has a Cove play area, a recreation field and a heated outdoor Cove pool, which is seasonal. In 2026 the Cove pool ran daily from 22 May to 6 September, weather permitting, and dates may be different in other years. Across the road, Beverley Park has an indoor pool, soft play, an arcade and adventure golf. The indoor pool and the Starlight Bar clubhouse need passes, which are an optional extra bought at reception. The Saltwater Kitchen pub and the Cove outdoor pool on Beverley Bay do not need a pass. Details are in the facilities guide.
Sleeping arrangements
With two bedrooms and a sofa bed, the layout suits two adults plus up to four children, or two couples with children. The double has its own en-suite toilet and a TV. Bedding is included in the rent, which saves a lot of luggage, but towels are not provided, so bring your own, including beach towels. See our packing list.
Food without the stress
Self-catering is the family-friendly option. There are supermarkets in Paignton, and the Co-op at Hookhills is close to the park. Plan three or four dinners at the caravan and one or two treat meals out. The eating-out guide lists places we know.
Bad-weather backup
This is the English coast, so have a plan B. Paignton Zoo has indoor tropical houses and covered areas, Kents Cavern is underground, and Torquay Museum is indoors. See our rainy-day guide. Keep a few board games and cards in the car.
Safety and sanity
- Agree a meeting point on the beach and at attractions in case anyone gets separated.
- Tide times change daily. If you are near rocks or coves, check them.
- Dogs are not allowed around the pools, play areas or soft play on the park, so do not assume a dog can join in everywhere.
- Pack a basic first-aid kit and any medicines. For urgent but non-emergency advice, call NHS 111. In an emergency, call 999 and give the park address.
Money-saving ideas
Beaches, coast path walks, Berry Head (free to enter, though parking is charged) and the Geoplay playground cost little or nothing. Choose one paid attraction for every two or three free days. Check each attraction's website for family tickets and online-booking offers before you go.
Booking tips
Changeover days on our listing are Friday, Saturday or Monday, and school holidays book up first. If your dates are flexible, short breaks outside the main school holidays can be a calmer introduction to the park. Prices and availability are shown live on UK Caravans 4 Hire, which handles all bookings securely. For first-timers, our first-time caravan holiday guide explains what to expect.
Opening times, prices, seasonal dates and rules change. Please check with each attraction, venue or the park before you travel. This is a privately owned caravan guide, not an official park or tourism site.