The Top Family Attractions in Paignton
Paignton, Devon, is a brilliant place for a family break in the UK. This lively seaside town on the English Riviera has plenty of things to do, whether you want a relaxed beach day, animal encounters, or fast rides. Many of the best attractions are close together, so it is easy to explore more than one place in a single day.
To help you plan your time, this guide includes well-known favourites and a few extra ideas that families often enjoy. For opening times, ticket prices, and special events, it is always worth checking each attraction’s website before you visit.
1
Paignton Beach
Paignton Beach is a classic choice for a family day out. The long stretch of sand and calm, shallow water can suit a wide range of ages, especially when the sea is gentle. It is a lovely place to unwind, build sandcastles, and enjoy simple seaside fun without needing a big plan.
Along the Paignton seafront, you can often find toilets, places for snacks, and spots to sit with a view. It is also a good area for a slow stroll, particularly later in the day when the light is softer, and the town feels calmer.
Paignton Beach also links well with other nearby attractions, so you can mix beach time with something more active. If you want to keep the day easy, you can stay close to the sand and still feel like you have had a full outing.
2
Paignton Zoo
Paignton Zoo is one of the best-known family-friendly days out in South Devon. With a huge range of animals, it is a place where children can get excited, ask questions, and learn without it feeling like school. If you arrive earlier, you may find you have more time to explore before it gets busy.
As well as animal enclosures, there are play areas that help break up the day, which can be really useful with younger ages. Many families enjoy mixing quiet moments watching animals with more energetic bursts in the play spaces.
It can also help to plan a few rest stops, especially if you are visiting with a pushchair or you have little ones who tire out quickly. A zoo visit often takes longer than you expect, so giving yourself plenty of time can make the whole experience more relaxed.
3
Splashdown Quaywest Waterpark
If your family wants action, Splashdown Quaywest Waterpark is one of the most exciting attractions in Paignton. It is built for fun, with slides and pools that suit different confidence levels, from gentle areas to faster rides for older children.
This is the sort of place where you can easily spend most of the day. Many families like to arrive ready for lots of water time, then take breaks for food, drinks, and a rest between sessions. On warmer days, it can feel like a mini holiday all on its own.
Because waterparks can be tiring, it helps to pace yourself. A little planning means everyone can enjoy the big slides and still have energy left for the rest of the day.
4
Pirates Bay Adventure Golf
Pirates Bay Adventure Golf is a great choice when you want something fun that works for all ages. The pirate theme adds a sense of adventure, and the course has lots of silly surprises that keep children laughing even if they miss a shot.
The seaside setting is a big part of the charm. It is a nice place to slow down, take photos, and enjoy the view while still doing something active together. It also works well as a shorter activity if you are building a day around several attractions.
Visiting with a group is often a good and fun idea since golf doesn't require any special skills. Everyone can join in and feel included, which makes it a reliable family favourite.
5
Geoplay Park
Geoplay Park is a special place in Paignton for children who love to climb, crawl, and explore. The design links play with Devon’s history, using different zones to represent geological ages. It is hands-on and playful, so learning happens naturally while children are having fun.
The cave areas, climbing features, and water play can keep kids busy for a long time. It is also a good option when you want fresh air but do not want to spend money on tickets, since parks can be a budget-friendly part of your trip.
Because it is open and active, it is worth keeping an eye on the weather and bringing spare clothes if your children are likely to get wet in the water areas. With a bit of planning, it can be one of the most enjoyable stops of the day.
6
Paignton Pier
Paignton Pier is a classic seaside stop, and it fits perfectly with time on the beach. It is a fun place to visit for arcades and simple amusements, and it can be especially handy if the weather changes and you want something sheltered for a while.
Many families enjoy the mix of bright lights, games, and the sea views. It is also a good spot for a treat, and for taking a break while still feeling part of the holiday atmosphere.
If you are staying nearby, it can be a nice evening option too. A gentle walk along the Paignton seafront, a quick visit to the pier, and a snack can be a simple way to end the day.
7
Goodrington Sands and the seafront parks
Just along the coast from central Paignton, Goodrington Sands is another lovely beach for families. It is a good place to find space for games, paddling, and relaxed beach time, especially if you want a change of scenery.
Nearby seafront parks can add even more variety. Some families like to split the day by starting with the beach, then heading to a park area for a different kind of play. This can help children stay interested for longer, because it feels like more than one adventure in a day.
8
A day out on the Dartmouth Steam Railway
For something a bit different, the Dartmouth Steam Railway is a memorable family experience that many visitors enjoy when they come to Paignton, Devon. Train rides feel like an adventure on their own, and they can be a welcome rest after lots of walking.
This kind of outing can also help you explore more of South Devon without needing to plan lots of driving. It is a gentle way to see new places, and children often love the feeling of travelling somewhere special.
9
Short trips to Torquay and Brixham
One of the best things about staying in Paignton is how easy it is to visit nearby towns. Torquay has a busy harbour feel, with shops, boats, and places to stop for food. It can be a nice change from the beach, especially if you want to explore a different part of the English Riviera.
Brixham offers a more traditional fishing-town atmosphere. Families often enjoy watching the boats, having fish and chips, and taking a slow walk by the water. If you are looking for simple, relaxed things to do that still feel special, these towns are great options.
10
National Trust places nearby
If your family likes gardens, coast views, or history, you may want to plan a day at a National Trust site while you are in the area. These places often have trails, open spaces, and family-friendly routes that work well with children of different ages.
A national trust day can be a good balance to the busier attractions. It gives you space to slow down, have a picnic, and explore at your own pace, while still feeling like you have done something worthwhile.
Making the most of your visit
To fit more into your time, it helps to group attractions by area. For example, you can pair Paignton Zoo with a quieter evening stroll, or combine beach time with the pier and a seafront park. If you are planning to stay for several days, mixing bigger days with calmer ones can keep everyone happy.
Paignton has lots to offer families, and these ideas cover a strong mix of the area’s best-loved places. With a little planning, you can build a trip around wildlife, water fun, seaside classics, and easy day trips, all in one part of Devon’s coast, without it feeling rushed.
We offer exceptional touring services for families seeking memorable camping trips and comfortable stays. If you're local to the area, or you're travelling nearby, why not give us a call and set up a pitch?
