Is it? isn’t it? With smatterings of sunshine dotted in-between cloudy skies and torrential rain, spring has teased us with a taste of things to come. And now it seems, summer has truly arrived in all its warm, bright, colourful loveliness.

If you like us, can’t wait to get to the beach, or if you’ve been longing for fresh air feasting, hot tub soaking and outdoor gallivanting, our guide to the best of local goodies, places and products should make this summer one to remember.

Our go-to summer drink

Sunny days conjure up images of sociable afternoons in the sunshine, whether outside in the garden or overlooking the sea…and of course no soiree would be complete without a selection of summery drinks to get you feeling holiday-ish.

With their range of delicious award-winning bottled cocktails, Devon-based Bar Buoy offers the perfect solution to your very own pop-up cocktail bar so you can delight your guests with their choice of snazzy drink by simply grabbing from the fridge, opening and pouring (garnish is optional!).

Our favourite cocktail:

Bar Buoy’s Seabird – Mixed with Salcombe Gin, pink grapefruit, lime juice and agave

Find out more online here.

@ bar_buoy

Beyond beautiful swimwear

Now that it’s summer us ladies out there will be turning our attention to swimwear. And those of us who are true water babies will be looking for something that can do the job while looking good too.

Founded by Devonshire entrepreneur Helen Lofts, Davy J is a swimwear brand whose unique designs cater specifically to women who like to do more than just sunbathe. In her words ‘Life is simply too short to be worrying about where your swimwear is sitting and what’s on show!

The Davy J collection is for women who want to dive in, wild swim, paddle-board, surf, or simply be able to run around after the kids at the beach. We like it very much indeed.

Our favourite design:

The Classic Cross Back Swimsuit

Find out more online here

@davyjs

Flipping good flops

What started out in Oz has now become a UK brand favourite and like the rest of the British populus we love them!

Gumbies founder Michel Maurer created his ethical and brilliant flops using sustainable materials of recycled rubber, jute and canvas and are now the vibrant, contemporary designs can be seen in pretty much any self-respecting beachside shop.

Our favourite place to buy them:

Bertie and Crew in Brixham, Devon

Find out more online here

bertieandcrew

Upping the BBQ game

Like burgers and buns, summer and barbecues are virtually inseparable, and whether you take your outdoor cookery seriously or simply like to throw a patty on the fire, good quality meat is always worth seeking out.

With a string of awards behind them, 130 year old Veyseys Butchers in Cullompton, Devon offer a superb range of fresh BBQ meats – all locally sourced from farms in the West Country. Go big with a Deluxe BBQ Box, or build your own from a selection of kebabs, patties, sausages, steaks and ribs.

Our favourite snack:

Boerewors – It’s about as South African as you get and when braaied (BBQ’d) over coals it is utterly delicious.

Find out more online here

veyseysbutchers

No sandy bottoms here

The subject of many a postcard, and a worldwide summer staple for anyone who likes to spend time on the beach. The humble folding deckchair is a thoroughly British invention which was patented in England by John Thomas Moore way back in 1886 and is still going strong.

If you’re a fan of these portable marvels (and who wouldn’t be?), you’ll love the beautiful designs of Sail and Canvas. Based in Topsham, Devon and made from recycled sails, each chair is unique, with the cloth used for its seat still bearing the character of its former life out at sea.

Our favourite design:

Tricolour sailcloth and marine canvas deckchairs

Find out more online here

@sailandcanvas

Get to the coast

Family summer holidays on the Cornish coast are something pretty special and if you’re thinking of taking the clan somewhere special it doesn’t get much better than this stunning sea view home in Praa Sands.

Sleeping six guests, Blue Yonder overlooks the bay and has fabulous outside space for you to chill, BBQ and entertain to your heart’s content.

Our favourite luxuries:

Stunning sea views, close to the beach, BBQ, hot tub, firepit, wood burner, private parking and pet-friendly (accepting two dogs!)

Find out more online here

luxurycoastal

Hit the water

There is simply no better way to explore Devon’s stunning coastline than by kayak!

And the good news is that you won’t need to lug any of your own equipment along with you, because Sea Kayak Devon offers terrific guided excursions with all the kit thrown in. Based in beautiful Dartmouth their skilled guides offer family trips, half and full day adventures, and SUP tours.

Our favourite bits:

Discovering South Devon’s secluded hidden beaches, beautiful sheltered estuaries with steep wooded sides, spectacular cliffs and sea caves.

Find out more online here

seakayakdevon

Sunshine dining

A beautiful beach, glistening bay and chilled out atmosphere – Sennen Cove in West Cornwall is one of our best loved places for a summery weekend away.

And if you like us, love your fresh air feasting to have a view, the place to be is the Surf Beach Bar and Surf Den. With stunning ocean views and an outdoor terrace from which to relish them, the restaurant’s menu offers a variety of beachside family favourites including burgers, pizzas and nachos all made using locally sourced Cornish ingredients.

Our favourite bites:

Fresh crab pizza

Find out more online
@beachbarsennen

You have to sea this

@luxurycoastal
ocean 1, newquay

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