Straight Point
Straight Point is a broad, low headland on the south coast of Devon, between Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton.
On the west side of the point is Sandy Bay, a holiday beach, that can be reached either along the coastal path or through the large caravan park. On the east side is a long stretch of shingle beach leading to Budleigh Salterton, including Otter Cove and Littleton Cove.
The top of the headland is used by the Royal Marines as a firing range, and the waters to the east of the bay are a designated danger zone.
Location
Straight Point is about ten miles south of the city of Exeter, two and a half miles south-east of Exmouth and about seven miles southwest of Sidmouth.
Geology
The red sandstone cliffs at Straight Point show an interesting sequence of sandstones in the Exmouth Formation. Most of the western section is accessible at low tide from Sandy Bay. Only a small part of the eastern side is accessible at low tide. Predominantly the cliffs are composed of layers of "Aylesbeare Mudstone", but additionally with these sandstone Layers. These rock formations are important because they represent the earliest geology along the entire coast. They are from the Triassic period and date from 250 million years ago. Both sediments are markedly red.
Location
- Location map: 50°36’24"N, 3°21’42"W