How to Navigate Parking in Devon This Summer

Welcome to Devon! Postcard-perfect beaches, quaint fishing towns, and plenty of national parks — Devon is the UK’s answer to coastal escape. But like many staycation hotspots in the UK, summer brings traffic, crowded streets, and, too often, nowhere to park.

Fortunately, with a bit of planning and the right tools, you can skip the chaos and walk into your holiday stress-free. Whether you're heading to catch the waves in Woolacombe or eating seafood in Salcombe, this guide breaks down the smartest parking options.

Types of Parking in Devon – What Are Your Options?

Devon’s geography means your parking strategy may change depending on where you're visiting. Here's a breakdown of the most common options:

1. Park on Driveways & Private Spaces

• Ideal for: Town centres, busy beaches, rural spots with limited public parking.
• Why it works: Local residents often rent out unused driveways and garages, usually cheaper and closer to where you need to be.
• Top benefit: Reserve ahead of time and arrive knowing exactly where you’re going.

Simply search your destination on the JustPark app or website, browse available private driveways or garages nearby, and book your space in advance; it’s quick, secure, and lets you skip the stress of on-the-day parking.

2. Council Car Parks

• Ideal for: Coastal towns and villages
• Tip: Some council car parks in Devon are available to pre-book directly on JustPark, giving you the convenience of a guaranteed space without the need to queue on the day. Always check availability in the app before you set off.

3. Park & Ride

• Ideal for: Exeter, Plymouth, and during major events like Sidmouth Festival.
• Why it works: Avoid holiday traffic and enjoy free or low-cost transfers into town.
• Limitation: Operating hours may not suit beachgoers or festival nights — check schedules!
• Tip: Some Park & Ride locations have reservable spaces listed on JustPark — perfect if you want a guaranteed spot before hopping on the shuttle.

4. Long stay or overnight parking

• Ideal for: Holiday cottages, weekend getaways, multi-day stays in villages or coastal towns
• Why it matters: Not all holiday rentals include parking, and public car parks often have strict time limits.
• JustPark Tip: Use filters to book a space for multiple days or the full week — ideal for travellers staying off the beaten track or arriving late in the day.

5. EV Charging Spaces

If you're travelling to Devon via electric vehicle, don't worry about where you're going to recharge – there are a growing number of EV charging points across Devon, with many more planned in the coming year.

As the county works toward its goal of net zero by 2050, most towns and cities now offer electric car charging in public car parks, and many hotels, supermarkets, and attractions are following suit.

Getting to Devon in an electric vehicle:

With the rising popularity of EVs, charging on the go is easier than ever. Most motorway services, including those on the M5, M4, and M3 corridors, offer rapid chargers (50kW+), so whether you're coming via Exeter or through the A30, you’ll find plenty of top-up options along the way.

Use the JustPark app or website to filter for EV-friendly spaces. Many listings include home chargers, on-site plug-ins, or are located near public charging points.

Area Breakdown: Where to Park in Devon's Top Destinations

Woolacombe

Often labelled one of the UK’s best beaches. Known for its golden sands and family appeal.

• Public Car Parks: Esplanade (Long or Short Stay) and Sandy Burrows (Long Stay) are convenient, but expensive and usually packed by 10am in peak season.
• Instead of circling for a space or rushing to beat the crowds, consider parking on a driveway in Woolacombe with JustPark.

Salcombe

Beautiful sea views, independent shops, and relaxing boat trips along the estuary.

• Car Parks: Limited short-stay bays; long-stay options outside town fill quickly.
• Avoid the stress by booking a private driveway in Salcombe with JustPark. It’s a convenient and reliable alternative to battling for a public space.

Exeter

Where the city meets the countryside. Explore the Cathedral Quarter, riverside pubs, and Roman ruins.

• Car Parks: Princesshay and Cathedral Green for shopping; Quayside for scenic access.
• Park & Ride: Sowton, Matford, and Honiton Road.
• Consider booking a space in Exeter near Belmont Park or St. Thomas; easier exits and less city-centre congestion.

Croyde Bay & Saunton Sands

Surf culture, music festivals, and stunning dunes.

• Council Car Parks: Conveniently close but usually packed during peak hours.
• Consider parking you car in Croyde round village backroads – often cheaper than the beach lots.
• Local Tip: Walk the coastal path from nearby Braunton for stunning views and less pressure to park at the beach.

Honourable mentions

Totnes

Steep hills and tight lanes make parking tricky. Save time and avoid the uphill struggle by booking a private space in Totnes with JustPark in advance.

Dawlish & Teignmouth

Traditional seaside towns with limited Teignmouth seafront spaces. Look inland for more availability via JustPark, especially on weekends.

Devon’s Summer Events

Sidmouth Folk Festival – 1st - 8th August @ The Ham, Sidmouth, EX10 8BG. Book Sidmouth festival parking weeks in advance; local hosts often list spaces specifically for the event.

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Dartmouth Regatta – 23rd - 30th August @ the River Dart waterfront and South Embankment, TQ6 9PS. Dartmouth comes alive during boat races and fireworks, drawing huge crowds. Avoid the hassle by reserving a JustPark space in Dartmouth in town and enjoy the event stress-free.

Beautiful Days Festival – 15 - 17th August @ Escot Park, near Ottery St Mary, Devon. This off-grid music festival offers limited on-site parking. Search for driveways nearby and walk or taxi in.

How to Park Like a Local

• Plan Early: Devon gets very busy between mid-July and end of August.
• Try to Avoid Popular Arrival Times: Weekends, midday, and bank holidays are particularly busy.
• Choose Local Driveways with JustPark: They’re often cheaper, closer, and offer flexibility.
• Use JustPark Filters: EV, overnight, accessible, and long-stay options at your fingertips.

The last thing you want after driving your partner, kids, family or friends all the way to Devon is to waste time hunting for a space. With JustPark, you can book ahead, skip the stress, and start enjoying your trip the moment you arrive.