Quiet country or coastal path walks. beaches, family activities, sports, tourist attractions, quiet bays, and lively resorts are all easily accessible from Shaldon.

Nearby seaside resorts include Teignmouth, reached by open ferry or by foot or car across the long Teign bridge, and the "English Riviera" resorts and harbours of Torquay (8 miles), Paignton and Brixham to the south, with Dawlish (3 miles) and Dawlish Warren to the north. The latter resort has an interesting nature reserve.

The cathedral city of Exeter is some 20 minutes by car, while the market town of Newton Abbot, with its famous race course, is only 5 miles away. Dartmouth is a medieval town with an attractive harbour, interesting shops and Steam Railway (to Paignton) reached by car ferry across the River Dart (long delays at busy times, but you can park and cross by passenger ferry) or by road via Totnes, which is at the head of the Dart and which has a castle and part of the town walls remaining. Salcombe is beyond Dartmouth and Totnes, and has a number of beaches, many walks, and nice shops. You may have to "park and ride" at high season.

The major historical port of Plymouth is less than 40 miles from Shaldon.

Whilst there are many interesting and varied walks close to Shaldon, including Haldon moor as well as river and coastal paths, some of the best walks in Britain can be found on Dartmoor and, on the other side of the River Exe, Exmoor. Both are easily accessible by car.
Throughout South Devon there are many places to visit and facilities to cater for all interests - historical, handicrafts, sports, or family fun.

Activity sports around Shaldon include walking, sea or river fishing, swimming in the sea or Torquay leisure pool, boat trips from Teignmouth or Torquay, horse riding, golf, bowls.
Many of the places mentioned above can be reached by mainline or local train from Teignmouth or by coastal ferry.