Looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure? Brixham may be known for its colourful harbour and fishing heritage, but it’s also a true haven for wildlife lovers. From dramatic cliffs alive with seabirds to playful seals in the harbour and dolphins dancing through the waves, the South Devon coast offers a wild world just waiting to be explored.
So, grab your binoculars and get ready to discover the wilder side of Brixham.
Seabirds: The Cliffside Aviators of Berry Head
Perched above the town, Berry Head National Nature Reserve is one of the best birdwatching spots in the UK. Each spring, thousands of guillemots gather on the cliffs, creating a spectacular sight (and sound!) as they nest and raise their young.
Be sure to also keep an eye out for gannets diving into the sea, cormorants and shags drying their wings along the rocks, and if you’re lucky, puffins offshore in early spring.
🕐 Best time to see them: March to July
📍 Best spots: Berry Head cliffs, Shoalstone Beach, and along the South West Coast Path
Seals: Brixham’s Playful Harbour Guests
Brixham’s resident seals are local celebrities – including two that are affectionately nicknamed Bob and Not Bob by locals! These curious grey and common seals are often seen lounging near fishing boats or popping up in the harbour for a photo opportunity.
For a closer look, join a boat trip around the bay, where you’ll likely spot them basking on rocks or gliding just below the surface.
💡 Local’s tip: If you’re swimming and a seal approaches, admire from a distance. They’re friendly but surprisingly strong!
🕐 Best time to see them: Year-round
📍 Best spots: Brixham Harbour, Breakwater Beach, and Fishcombe Cove
Dolphins: The English Riviera’s Ocean Stars
Yes, dolphins really do visit Brixham! Pods of common and bottlenose dolphins are often spotted in Torbay, sometimes even within sight of the harbour. For the best chance to see them, book a wildlife cruise with companies like the Dartmouth Steam Railway & River Boat Company.
🕐 Best time to see them: May to September
📍 Best spots: Offshore near Berry Head, or from coastal cliffs on calm days
Brixham is more than just a seaside escape – it’s a living, breathing wildlife wonderland. Whether you’re watching guillemots at Berry Head, spotting seals in the harbour, or catching sight of dolphins offshore, every visit promises a moment of natural magic. Book your Brixham stay today at Harbour View Guest House.
