Explore the Fascinating Under Water Worlds in the Rock Pools of Devon

If you’re struggling to think of ways to entertain the kids without breaking the bank, you are not alone. Many parents, especially in today’s economic climate, have a sense of dread as it nears the time for school holidays. How can you keep the kids busy without spending too much money?

Nowadays there is an even greater sense of urgency to help the future generations appreciate the beauty of the planet in which they live. The great thing about the great outdoors is that it’s free to enjoy all year round. A great pastime for many appeals to those with a fascination with what lies beneath the surface of the sea. You don’t need wetsuits, snorkels or expensive equipment to enjoy a little bit of rock pooling. All you need is a good pair of shoes and a desire to explore. Avoid the hustle, bustle and tourism of a man-made aquarium, and delve into the beautiful and fascinating world that exists in the rock pools of Devon.

Why is Devon such a great place to explore rock pools? The area is known for its interesting coastline and subsequent geology. The beaches are full of opportunities for adventure as the centuries of erosion from the harsh Atlantic Ocean reveal a treasure trove of beautiful wonders beneath the waves. You’ll find stunning starfish, creative crabs, awesome anemones, and bountiful barnacles in these gorgeous shallow waters. The low tide will reveal a world of unseen wonders that usually go unnoticed. (On the subject of tides, don’t forget to check them before you set off! You don’t want to get caught out on a rock with a high rising tide!)

Local companies, like Luxury Coastal, will gladly recommend the best spots for rock pooling so that you have the perfect place to paddle and ponder. Let’s do a tour of some of the best places to explore:

Preston Sands

If you visit this spot at high tide, you may need some imagination to be able to envisage the life beneath the deep sea. However, come back at low tide and you’ll truly be amazed at what you see. The maze of rocks and ledges, miniature peaks and troughs, hold a plethora of stunning wildlife and you will be able to spend a lot of time wandering through the best rock pools in Torbay.

Wembury Beach

This spot is one of the best places to go rock pooling in the whole of the UK. In the crystal-clear pools that the low tide reveals, you will find a wide variety of marine life including sea scorpions, spiny starfish, limpets, pipefish, shore crabs and anemones. Adults and children alike will be in awe of the life that can be spotted in the miles of rock pools found at this beach.

Hope Cove

Located in a wonderful AONB (Area of outstanding natural beauty) Hope Cove is actually made up of two gorgeous sandy beaches. With a little bit of exploration, again you’ll find some wonderful marine life in the rock pools of this wonderful beach. Hermit crabs! periwinkles, shrimp and small fish await you in the pools of Hope Cove.

Maer Rocks

If the water sports of Exmouth beach aren’t really your cup of tea, just travel a little more southeast to Maer Nature Reserve and Maer Rocks. Here you will find the perfect mixture of the soft sandy beach and endless mosaic of beautiful rock pools teeming with life.

The best things in life are free, and that’s certainly the case when it comes to rock pooling!