Location
United Kingdom
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Adults only
Terrain
Pebble
Best season
June to September
About Moor Sand
Moor Sand is a small, hidden cove on the South Hams coast of Devon, on the stretch between Gara Rock and Prawle Point east of the Salcombe estuary, about 1.4 km from West Prawle. Walkers who stay on the South West Coast Path pass above it without seeing it. The beach is made of small, creamy pebbles with rock outcrops that create sheltered sun traps, faces south-west and gets sun for most of the day, and the sea is clean and clear, with colourful seaweed exposed at low tide. It is listed by British Naturism among its UK naturist beaches (as a placeholder entry without details) and has been described as clothing-optional. There are no facilities of any kind. The only way down is at the south-eastern end, where a rope helps on the steep final section; this is not suitable for young children or anyone unsteady on their feet. Because it is so sheltered it can be surprisingly busy on summer days, and boats sometimes anchor off the cove.
Getting there
Park in or near East Prawle and walk the South West Coast Path west; the cove lies below the path between Prawle Point and Gara Rock and is easy to miss from above. The descent is at the south-eastern end, steep and helped by a rope. Allow time and wear proper footwear. No public transport nearby and no wheelchair access.
Legal context
Nudity itself is not an offence in England and Wales; the exposure offence (Sexual Offences Act 2003, s.66) requires intent to cause alarm or distress, and police and CPS guidance treat ordinary naturism as lawful. Moor Sand is not designated or signed for naturism; nude use is informal.
Naturism at Moor Sand sits under United Kingdom's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: United Kingdom public nudity guide.
Researched 24 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 50.2140, -3.7361
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in United Kingdom
Frequently asked questions
Is Moor Sand a nude beach?
It is an informal clothing-optional cove, listed by British Naturism among its naturist beaches but not designated.
How do I get down?
From the South West Coast Path at the south-eastern end of the cove, using a rope on the steep final section.
Is it suitable for children?
The steep, roped access makes it unsuitable for young children and less mobile visitors.
Are there facilities?
None. Bring water and shade.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
Members’ reviews
Write a review →Loading member reviews…