Things to do in Paignton
Things to do in Paignton range from a walk by the pier to a longer visit to the zoo. The town sits on the Devon coast within Torbay, an area also known as the English Riviera. For a manageable day, choose one main attraction and leave room for the journey and a walk along the seafront. The beach guide compares nearby stretches of sand, while Paignton Zoo has separate details on tickets and access.
Paignton Sands has a promenade and a pier, making it a useful starting point for exploring the waterfront. The pier itself is free to enter, although that does not make its amusements free. Check opening arrangements for anything you particularly want to do, and leave time to enjoy the coast without having to fit every attraction into a single afternoon.
Paignton Pier and the waterfront
Start with the sea and the pier, then follow the promenade at a pace that suits your group. The council lists level access to the promenade and harbour and ramps north and south of the pier. Those general facilities do not tell you about temporary diversions, so check the route before travelling if step-free access is essential.
The council announced that the middle and southern Esplanade would close to vehicles from 21 September 2026, with parking suspended there while pedestrian access remains. The work was expected to run until early January 2027. Check the latest arrangements for access and parking before setting out, especially if someone needs to be dropped close to the waterfront.
Our take: coasteering
For a regional coastal activity, this guided outing starts in Maidencombe.
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Things to do in Paignton
Plan things to do in Paignton, from the pier and zoo to coastal walks and regional activities.
Goodrington and a coastal walk
Goodrington offers another beach area, with paths from Youngs Park and Quay West. Access to the beach involves steps or ramps. The council describes a walk from Paignton to Goodrington of one mile, taking approximately 30 minutes, with some steep sections. Choose the route according to your group rather than assuming the whole walk is level.
Toilets at Goodrington Central are listed year round, while other facilities have seasonal arrangements. Beach equipment and access mats can depend on weather or season. Take a look at the beaches page for the differences between Goodrington North and South, including the rules for dogs.
Things to do with children
A zoo visit gives families a different kind of day from the seafront. The operator suggests allowing four to five hours, so consider keeping the rest of the schedule flexible. Check the current opening times and areas affected by work before booking. Children under 16 must be accompanied and supervised by an adult over 18.
The pier and beach can be combined with a shorter walk, while Kents Cavern in Torquay is another option for a visit underground. Its route has steps and steep sections, and its ticket types differ. Read our Kents Cavern guide to decide whether the route fits everyone in your party.
Regional ideas beyond Paignton
Torquay provides a change of setting without leaving the bay. Bus route 12 connects Torquay, Paignton and Brixham; check the timetable for your date and allow for the return trip. The Torquay guide introduces further places to explore.
For an active coastal outing, coasteering is a regional option in Maidencombe near Torquay. Plan your own journey to the meeting point and read the activity requirements before booking. It is a different experience from a walk on Paignton Sands, so consider the conditions and the ability of everyone taking part.
Planning a comfortable day
Choose a timed visit first and arrange flexible stops around it. A beach walk can fit before or after a zoo or cave visit, but travel, meals and any access requirements deserve time in the plan. The travel guide covers routes into the area.
At the coast, check wind and tides and follow current local advice. The harbour authority advises swimming with another person or telling someone your return time, remaining close to shore and staying clear of harbour entrances. A calm-looking surface can be misleading when wind blows offshore.
Questions
Is the pier free to enter?
The pier itself is free to enter; individual amusements may cost extra.
Can I walk to Goodrington?
The council describes a one-mile walk of around 30 minutes, including some steep sections.
Is coasteering in Paignton?
The regional coasteering option is in Maidencombe near Torquay. Arrange your own journey to the meeting point.
What should I check before visiting the waterfront?
Check current pedestrian routes, vehicle access and parking around the works before you travel.