The Big Beach Bus 95, operated by Stagecoach South West, is a seasonal open-top bus service that typically runs during the spring and summer months. In 2024, the service operated daily from Sunday, March 24, until Saturday, November 2. The service concluded its operations for the 2025 summer season.
This scenic route connects Exmouth, Littleham, and Sandy Bay, offering an enjoyable way to explore the East Devon coast during the warmer parts of the year.
Discover the charm of East Devon on the Big Beach Bus 95. Starting from Exmouth, this route takes passengers on a delightful trip through Littleham to the expansive sands of Sandy Bay. The open-top deck guarantees the best vantage point for photos.
Ideal for guests at Devon Cliffs Holiday Park, the service offers easy access to Exmouth Town Centre and the Rail Station. Forget about parking hassles and enjoy the ride to the World of Country Life or the beach on this iconic local bus.
Scroll left and right to see more places.
There is something undeniably joyful about an open-top bus. It transforms a simple journey into a mini-holiday, inviting the salt air into your hair and offering panoramic views that you simply can’t get from a car window. If you are visiting South Devon, the Big Beach Bus 95, operated by Stagecoach South West, is arguably the most fun you can have on four wheels.
Connecting the vibrant town of Exmouth with the golden sands of Sandy Bay, this route is more than just a shuttle service; it is an experience in itself. Whether you are a family laden with buckets and spades, a walker tackling the South West Coast Path, or simply someone who appreciates a stunning view with their travel, the 95 is your perfect seaside companion.
The Big Beach Bus 95 is designed for pleasure. Running seasonally (typically from the Easter holidays through to late October), this service usually features distinctive open-top double-decker buses. This means you can secure a seat on the top deck and enjoy uninterrupted 360-degree views of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Unlike driving, where the driver has to focus on the road and everyone else is cramped in the back, the bus allows the whole group to relax. You glide past the shimmering ocean, weave through charming villages, and arrive right at the entrance of one of Devon’s most popular holiday destinations without once worrying about parking charges.
The route is short but sweet, packing a huge amount of variety into a relatively quick journey. Here is what you can expect to see along the way:
1. The Exmouth Start
The journey begins in the heart of Exmouth, often starting near the railway station or the bustling Strand. Exmouth is known as the gateway to the Jurassic Coast, and as the bus sets off, you get a great perspective of this historic port town. If you have arrived by train (the Avocet Line from Exeter is a scenic treat in itself), the transfer to the bus is seamless.
2. The Esplanade
This is the highlight for many. The bus cruises along Exmouth’s famous seafront. From the top deck, you can look out over the two miles of golden sand, spotting kite surfers dancing on the waves and families enjoying the beach. On a clear day, the views stretch right across the Exe Estuary towards Dawlish Warren. Keep your camera ready as you pass the Exmouth Lifeboat Station and the classic clock tower.
3. Historic Littleham
Turning inland, the bus winds its way towards Littleham. This ancient village offers a lovely contrast to the bustling seafront. It is a place of thatched cottages and historic charm. The bus navigates the narrower lanes here, giving you a bird’s-eye view into cottage gardens and the green, rolling Devon countryside that surrounds the coast.
4. The Sandy Bay Finale
The route terminates at the Devon Cliffs Holiday Park, which provides direct access to Sandy Bay. This is a spectacular, secluded beach backed by high red cliffs that glow a fiery orange in the sunset. It is a ‘Blue Flag’ winner and feels a world away from the town centre, despite being just a short bus ride away.
The Big Beach Bus 95 is a seasonal service, catering primarily to the holiday crowds and locals enjoying the warmer months.
One of the best things about bus travel in this region is the value. Stagecoach South West offers a variety of ticket options that can make a day out very affordable.
To make the most of the Big Beach Bus 95, why not plan a full itinerary?
Morning: Start in Exmouth town centre. Grab a coffee at one of the independent cafes around The Strand. Hop on the 95 and grab a front-row seat on the top deck.
Midday: Get off at the World of Country Life. The bus stops right outside this fantastic attraction, which features a deer train, vintage vehicle museum, and birds of prey displays. It’s a hit with all ages.
Afternoon: Walk from the attraction down to Sandy Bay beach (or hop back on the bus for the final stop). Spend the afternoon rock pooling, swimming, or simply relaxing on the sand.
Evening: Catch the bus back to Exmouth. For a special treat, get off at the Esplanade for fish and chips as the sun goes down, or stay on until the town centre to catch a train home.
The Big Beach Bus 95 reminds us that the journey is just as important as the destination. It captures the essence of a British seaside holiday: fresh air, great views, and a sense of freedom. So, next time you are in Exmouth, leave the car behind, climb the stairs to the top deck, and let the coast come to you.
This listing was last updated on 4th January 2026
We can't guarantee that all information on this website is 100% accurate. You must always check with the operator's website before travelling. We can't be held responsible for any costs incurred because of inaccurate or misleading information. For more information, please read our terms and conditions.
