The picturesque town of Salcombe sits on the banks of the Knightsbridge Estuary in Devon in the southwest of England. But I must admit, I have to get something off my chest…
When I first heard Salcombe being compared to the Mediterranean I thought someone was smoking their socks. But I had to quickly retract my statement because it is absolutely STUNNING! Think rolling countryside hills, yacht basins, a tidal estuary, and incredible coastal views – you see my point.
The relaxed atmosphere coupled with a beautifully rocky coastline, golden sandy beaches, and hidden coves makes it a place that begs to be explored.
Now, Airbnbs in Salcombe are automatically amazing, well, because of the very fact that they are in this beautiful town. But this is, of course, a bold statement, and some are less amazing than others.
So, why exactly am I here? I thought you’d never ask! I’ve done the hard yards, put in the time, and have left no stone unturned to source the BEST Airbnbs in Salcombe. And believe me, there are some absolute rippers.
Ready to dive in? Let’s go!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
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Quick Answer: These Are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Salcombe
St Elmo Lodge
- > $$
- > 5 guests
- > Beach access – Beachfront
- > Stunning sea views from the patio
Apartment in Iconic Salcombe Building
- > $
- > 4 guests
- > Shared pool
- > Stunning location adjacent to the harbour
Woodside Beach – Kittiwake
- > $$$$
- > 2 guests
- > Private beach access – Beachfront
- > Brand new, luxury apartment
Lovely Studio Apartment with Off-road Parking
- > $$
- > 2 guests
- > Pets allowed
- > Perfect hilltop location
Beautiful apartment on the seafront
- > $$
- > 2 guests
- > Dedicated workspace
- > Amazing sea views from the bedroom
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Salcombe
Before I get into the real gooey, chocolatey centre of the article, let’s first take a closer look at what to expect from Airbnbs in Salcombe.
As I touched on previously, Salcombe is an incredibly beautiful town that has all the ingredients for an unforgettable weekend (or longer) away when you’re visiting the UK. If you’re a nature lover and passionate about exploring the great outdoors, then it’s the place for you. If you’re just after a relaxing trip filled with food and wine while soaking up the views and breathing in the fresh sea air, then it’s still the place for you.
And just like the diverse destination that it is, so too are the Airbnb options in the town.
The most predominant Airbnb types in Salcombe are cottages, apartments, and houses. These seem to dominate the listings and it’s easy to see why. The town is a beautiful place to visit in the UK but it is rather compact and concentrated on the steep west side of the Knightsbridge Estuary. This would be a rather difficult location for rural farm stays, glamping options, or even eco-lodges or resorts.
The Airbnb options on offer here really epitomise Salcombe, and that’s what you want from your Airbnb, right? A local feeling that captures the vibe and the energy of the place that you’re in.
In terms of amenities, you can expect most of the usual modern suspects. Things like fully-equipped kitchens, WiFi, TVs, laundry facilities, parking, and patio/balconies are common. Some listings might even step it up a notch and provide you with private pools, a sauna, sea-facing balconies, waterfront properties, or even a cheeky hot tub.
The 15 Top Airbnbs in Salcombe
Right, hopefully, that’s given you a good synopsis of Salcombe and what to expect from Airbnbs there. Now we can get cracking with the top listings in the town.
St Elmo Lodge | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Salcombe
Kicking things off in Salcombe is St Elmo Lodge, a two-bedroom, top-floor apartment with unparalleled views over North Sands beach. The apartment is a short trot over to the beach as well as the local town centre and tennis courts. The main bedroom features a king-size bed while the second bedroom has two single beds making it ideal for those travelling as a family. But hey, who says it can’t function just as well for a bunch of mates?
There is also a fully-equipped kitchen for whipping up some cheffy creations, a dedicated workspace, WiFi, and even an indoor fireplace. My favourite part, however, is the sea-facing sun balcony. It’s the perfect place to enjoy your morning cuppa or evening dinner with uninterrupted beach and sea views. There’s nothing quite as relaxing as gazing across the vast expanse of the ocean when you’re on holiday. It does wonders for the soul.
Apartment in Iconic Salcombe Building | Best Budget Airbnb in Salcombe
Now, it’s not often that you get a steal in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the town but every so often, the stars do align. What more could you ask for here – unbeatable location, on the harbour with free parking, and a pool. I mean, it doesn’t get much better than that. Well, given the price, it did just get better.
This fully-equipped apartment can sleep up to four guests over two bedrooms – one a queen bedroom and the other with a bunk bed configuration. It’s light, airy, and newly renovated with everything you’ll need from a kitchen and WiFi to elevator access, a TV, and a bathtub. You’ll also have access to the communal gardens to take a stroll or relax after a full day of exploring. If you’re travelling on a budget, you’ll want to check this one out.
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View on Osprey View on REIWoodside Beach – Kittiwake | Over-the-Top Luxury Airbnb in Salcombe
Luxury is what you wanted so luxury is what you get – Kittiwake is a brand-new, one-bedroom apartment at Woodside Beach. And luxury doesn’t always have to come in the form of a massive, multiroom villa. Sometimes, a perfectly located modern apartment with out-of-this-world views can fit this mould too. But it doesn’t end there. The apartment also has access to a private beach on the estuary as well as a beach terrace with a BBQ – nothing quite speaks luxury like exclusivity.
Then onto the apartment itself. Kittiwake boasts a king bedroom, private balcony, free parking, fast WiFi, and a smart TV. The interior is new and modern with elegant coastal chic décor matching the vibrant colours of the water out front. No expense has been spared and no corner has been cut here. From the moment you enter to the moment you leave, it will be nothing short of magical.
Lovely Studio Apartment with Off-road Parking | Perfect Salcombe Airbnb for Solo Travellers
Travelling solo in the UK for work or leisure and need something simple and uncomplicated yet cosy and comfortable? Then this little self-contained studio apartment is calling your name. Located at the top of the hill in one of the quieter parts of Salcombe, it’s only a short 10-minute stroll to reach the main part of the town.
The key here, however, is simplicity. Nothing overly complicated, just an ideal little spot for a solo getaway to Salcombe. The apartment follows an open-plan format with the bed area and kitchenette as one with an attached en-suite bathroom and shower. There’s also fast WiFi, 42″ HDTV and a hairdryer. Plus, the unit is pet-friendly so you might not need to roll solo after all.
Beautiful apartment on the seafront | Perfect Short-Term Airbnb in Salcombe for Digital Nomads
Keen on calling Salcombe your temporary base and bashing out some work while you’re visiting? Then this epic seafront apartment ticks all the boxes – a private unit with WiFi and a dedicated workspace. I mean, that’s all one really needs, right? As an added bonus, there are amazing sea views from the bedroom if you feel like doing a bit of WFB (that’s work from bed, in case you were wondering). You can also benefit from these views if you make things a bit more formal and work from the living room.
In addition, there’s free driveway parking on the premises, self-check-in, a TV, and a fully-equipped kitchen. As an added bonus, you have access to the communal gardens and swimming pool too, although it is closed over the winter months.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Salcombe
Luckily for you, that’s not all the epic Airbnbs in Salcombe that I have for you. Here are some more awesome places to consider for your stay:
2 The Reach
Kicking off the list of the best of the rest with a bang is 2 the Reach – an ultra-modern two-bedroom apartment with ridiculous views! It’s definitely one of my favourite rentals in Salcombe for its location and views alone but there’s plenty more to the unit. The apartment boasts large windows throughout which means plenty of natural light flooding in giving a light and bright feel.
The kitchen, living, and dining room areas follow an open-plan format giving a sense of space and freedom. The living room flows onto the decked balcony area that has an outdoor table and chairs set for summer breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. It’s the perfect spot for those travelling couples and friends alike to enjoy Salcombe for an unforgettable weekend of luxury and bliss.
Beautiful Waterside Apartment, Salcombe
The next apartment is a real gem and it’s easy to see why it’s often fully booked and has a waiting list. You’ll have completely unobstructed views of the Knightsbridge Estuary from the living room and of course, the decked patio. This is one of the best spots to enjoy your morning coffee or a glass of your favourite vino in the evenings. I mean, who’s stopping you from having a crisp glass of rose from Provence at lunchtime?
The unit is compact, cosy, and fully equipped to cater for all your holiday needs. There is a foldout wall bed that opens into the living room area, a fully-equipped kitchen, an en-suite shower room, WiFi, and a TV. Guests will also have access to the private gardens to stroll in and an outdoor swimming pool to dip in during the summer months.
Sunny Salcombe cottage
The next Airbnb in Salcombe is something a bit different to the last few listings as it takes the form of a cosy, countryside cottage. But don’t worry, it’s not completely isolated. It’s a short 5-10-minute walk from the town centre and the Whitestrand Quay. You’ll benefit from both cascading countryside views and estuary glimpses so you kind of have the best of both worlds.
The unit itself can sleep up to six guests across three bedrooms so there’s also no shortage of accommodation here. There’s a Tuscan-inspired sun terrace that’s perfect for sunset barbecues or simply soaking up the summer Salcombe sun. And for those who need to do a bit of work, one of the rooms has a desk that’s perfect for pushing out some emails or Zoom calls. Yes, there’s WiFi too.
Salcombe Apartment – Large Decking and Sea Views
Looking for a stylish spot in Salcombe with incredible views that’s within walking distance of both the beach and the town? Then you need not look further than this awesome spot. Set on the hill above North Sands beach, the apartment overlooks the estuary mouth and beyond. Think summer BBQs on the deck with this as the backdrop – sounds rather delightful if you ask me.
The apartment itself is stylish and comfortable, set inside a Victorian Villa. It is one of eight similar units inside the converted villa. Although there are permanent residents living there, it’s as private as any other apartment block. Besides, some other human interactions never hurt.
The three bedrooms can comfortably accommodate four adults and two kids. The third bedroom has a bunk bed configuration so it’s perfect for those family getaways. Other amenities include a fully-equipped kitchen, WiFi, laundry facilities, and a dedicated workspace.
Salcombe 2 Bed House
Next up is this newly built two-bedroom rental in Salcombe that’s a five-minute downhill walk into the town. The standalone house is perfect for four guests, although the second bedroom has two single beds and is thus better suited to kids and teenagers. You’ll have a fully-equipped kitchen to rustle up some delicious meals as well as an outdoor gas BBQ. If you’re anything like me, you’ll take any opportunity to use the BBQ, come rain or shine.
In the living room area, there’s a 50″ smart TV to catch up on all your favourite series and movies on Netflix or Amazon Prime. However, if you’re just an analogue person in a digital world, then there is also a great selection of books and board games to make use of for both adults and kids.
Downtown Salcombe
If you want to keep it simple when visiting Salcombe then why not just opt for something like a room in a house? It gives you that personalised, guesthouse experience without feeling too robotic. This UK Airbnb is an uncomplicated, no-fuss room within a private house and comes with its own dedicated bathroom. You will also have access to other communal spaces as well as the use of a parking permit.
The best part, however, is the full breakfast included in your stay. You’ll get a continental selection consisting of cheeses and meats, yoghurt and cereal, and fresh fruit salad. But wait, there’s more – you’ll also get some hot breakfast in the form of eggs, freshly baked croissants, toast, jam and preserves. Nothing quite like a little homely touch.
Luxury self-catering getaway in Salcombe
Looking for an Airbnb in Salcombe that is out of town in a more rural, countryside setting? Then the Garden Cottage is the spot for you. Surrounded by nature and the rolling Devon countryside, it’s the perfect place to relax, switch off, and reset your batteries. You’ll feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, although the town, beaches, and harbour are only a short walk away.
The unit itself has a super king-size bed in the room as well as an en-suite shower room and a well-equipped kitchen for your cooking needs. The best part of it all is the private terrace that leads off the sitting room. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee or your evening tipple as you watch the sunset over the valley.
Beautiful Salcombe Home
Now, this beautiful home is the perfect rental in Salcombe for larger families or groups of mates with its large sleeping capacity. The house can sleep up to eight guests across its four bedrooms with a variety of sleeping arrangements possible.
It’s really the ideal spot if you want to do some entertaining as there’s an amazing, fully-equipped kitchen to cook in and plenty of seating space, both inside and out. However, my personal preference would be the garden table in the summertime after wowing guests with your BBQ skills.
The bonus here though is the garage that guests can make use of during their stay, with space for two cars. But that’s not the best part – inside the garage, you’ll find crabbing lines, wetsuits, a tandem kayak, and lots of other ‘toys’ to make use of. I don’t know about you, but that’s me sold!
Beautiful Waterfront Apartment in Salcombe
What more do you need than a one-bedroom apartment with unparalleled views of the Knightsbridge Estuary, a heated swimming pool, and communal gardens? Not much, I tell ya. This light and airy garden flat features an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining room area that opens up onto a patio area with an outdoor table and chairs. It’s ideal for al fresco lunches on those warm English summer days. The patio then leads onto the communal gardens that house the heated swimming pool, available through the summer months.
The beauty here is the versatility of the sleeping arrangements – the bedroom has a double bunk and two single beds. Now, I know you might be thinking that’s a bit strange, but push the single beds together and voila – you have a king-size bed! There are also a couple of pull-out beds in the lounge if additional sleeping room is required.
Cosy Coastal Cottage in the heart of Salcombe
Ending off the list of the best Airbnbs in Salcombe is this cosy coastal cottage that is perfectly located in the town. Both the town centre and the estuary are within a minute’s walk so it doesn’t get more convenient than this. The cottage is set over two floors, with the kitchen, living, and dining room downstairs and the bedroom with a queen bed upstairs.
The kitchen is fully equipped with everything you’ll need to whip up some delicious meals and there’s also a Nespresso coffee machine for your convenience. If you’re not in the mood to cook and just want to take it easy, there are plenty of restaurants, pubs, cafes, and takeaway places conveniently located from the cottage. There’s even a great little bakery just around the corner for those fresh croissants in the morning. I could see myself putting on a few pounds here…
FAQs About Airbnbs in Salcombe
Remember, questions not only help you out but fellow travellers just like you. It’s kind of like paying it forward in a way. Here are some of the most common questions about Airbnbs in Salcombe:
What To Pack For Salcombe
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Salcombe Travel Insurance
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Salcombe.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on the Best Airbnbs in Salcombe
Right, well that brings me to the end of the best Airbnbs in Salcombe. I hope that this article has helped to make the process of choosing a spot a little easier and that you’ve seen something that tickles your fancy.
I know that choosing a rental in Salcombe might not be the easiest thing, heck, but choosing an Airbnb anywhere can be tough. But I’m confident in saying that there’s something here for everyone. Remember, if it feels right then chances are it’s the spot for you!
- Check out our Backpacking around the UK guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Make sure you visit the most beautiful places in the UK too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks in the UK.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
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