Paddleboarding Adventures in South Devon — From Wonton Park Camping
- tristanfreeth
- Jun 30
- 4 min read
If you’re camping in Devon and looking for unforgettable outdoor adventures, Wonton Park Camping is your perfect base for exploring some of the best paddleboarding spots in South Devon. Nestled near Totnes, our peaceful campsite places you within easy reach of calm estuaries, scenic rivers, and coastal waters ideal for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaking. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a complete beginner, there’s a magical location just a short drive away waiting for you.
In this guide, we’ll share our top paddleboarding destinations near our campsite, include practical details like parking and launch spots, and round things off with important safety advice and where to find SUP equipment and hire nearby.
Top Paddleboarding Locations Near Wonton Park Camping
1. River Dart – Totnes to Stoke Gabriel
Distance from Wonton Park: Approximately 4 miles (10 minutes by car)
Parking: Longmarsh Car Park, Totnes (TQ9 5AL)
Launch; from the slipway in front of the car park.
Highlights: Tranquil waters, abundant wildlife, and scenic views. Launch from Longmarsh for a peaceful paddle downstream towards Stoke Gabriel. Be mindful of tidal conditions and plan accordingly. visittotnes.co.uk
2. Totnes Weir to Dartington Estate (River Dart)
Distance from campsite: 4 miles (10 mins by car)
Parking: King Edward VI Community College (TQ9 5JX)
Launch: Above the weir via a pontoon near the footpath
Highlights: This stretch of the River Dart offers a peaceful paddle upstream toward the Dartington Estate. The route is largely unaffected by tides, making it perfect for beginners. Expect scenic views, wildlife, and a rural landscape that embodies the best of South Devon’s countryside.
3. Stoke Gabriel Creek (River Dart)
Distance from Wonton Park Camping: 9 miles (20 mins)
Parking: Limited parking by the quay (TQ9 6RD) — arrive early
Launch: Directly from the beach or pontoon at high tide
Highlights; Paddle along a peaceful tidal creek framed by trees and tranquil countryside. Stoke Gabriel is also a great place to try crabbing from the quay — a hit with families. There's a charming café by the water (The River Shack), making this a relaxing day out.
4. Kingsbridge & Salcombe Estuary
Distance: 10 miles (25 mins)
Parking: Kingsbridge Quay Car Park (TQ7 1JD) or North Sands Car Park in Salcombe (TQ8 8LD)
Launch: Easy beach access at both ends
This extensive tidal estuary is sheltered and stunning, with inlets and creeks to explore. Paddle from Kingsbridge to Salcombe for a more adventurous route or just enjoy the calm waters near the town. Great for nature lovers and photographers alike.
5. Aveton Gifford – River Avon
Distance from campsite: 8 miles (20 mins)
Parking: Village car park by the bridge (TQ7 4LB)
Launch: Next to the bridge at high tide (you only have 2 hours to paddle here at high tide)
Why not make a day of it and float on the tide all the way down to Bantham beach and catch a taxi back to Aveton Gifford .... this is known as the Bantham Swoosh!
A tranquil route up the River Avon surrounded by green fields and wildlife. Ideal for those wanting a calm and quiet paddleboarding spot.
6. Bigbury-on-Sea & Burgh Island
Distance: 9 miles (25 mins)
Parking: Bigbury-on-Sea Beach Car Park (TQ7 4AZ)
Launch: From the sandy beach — avoid strong offshore winds
Iconic Burgh Island offers stunning views and a unique paddleboarding experience. Time your paddle for low tide to see the causeway that connects the island to the mainland.
7. South Milton Sands & Thurlestone Rock
Distance: 10 miles (25 mins)
Parking: National Trust Car Park (TQ7 3JY)
Launch: Calm beach access
This picturesque stretch of coast is beginner-friendly and beautifully clear. Paddle out to see Thurlestone Rock, a natural arch just offshore. Best visited on calm days with minimal wind.
Where to Hire Paddleboards or Buy Gear Nearby
You don’t need to bring your own gear — there are fantastic local providers close to our Devon campsite:
✅ Waterborn SUP – Kingsbridge
Lessons, tours, and rentalswaterborn.uk.com
✅ SUP Away – West Buckland
Mobile paddleboard hire service with deliverysup-away.com
✅ Triocean Surf – Near Bantham
Shop and hire for paddleboards, wetsuits, and moretrioceansurf.co.uk
✅ Adventure South – Salcombe
Hourly rentals right on the beachadventuresouth.co.uk
⚠️ Safety Tips for Paddleboarding in Devon
To keep your South Devon paddleboarding adventure safe and enjoyable:
If you're new to paddle boarding, consider booking a 1-2 hour introductory lesson to get started safely.
Check tide times, water quality and weather forecasts before you go
Always wear a buoyancy aid and use a leash
Launch in designated public areas
Avoid strong offshore winds
Take a waterproof phone case for emergencies
Let someone know your route and ETA
Stick to your skill level, especially on the open sea
🌿 Your Base for Devon Paddleboarding Adventures
Camping in Devon doesn’t get better than this — peaceful countryside by night, and easy access to some of the best paddleboarding in Devon by day. Book your pitch at Wonton Park Camping and dive into adventure, tranquillity, and unforgettable views.
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