The Sideshore Salt Fest
Schedule
Sat, 18 Jul, 2026 at 07:30 am to Sun, 19 Jul, 2026 at 06:00 pm
UTC+01:00Location
Sideshore | Exeter, EN
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The Sideshore Salt FestSaturday 18th July & Sunday 19th July 2026
Dive into a weekend celebrating all things sea, surf, and saltwater at The Sideshore Salt Fest, a coastal festival dedicated to water lovers, swimmers, and ocean adventurers. Taking place across the weekend of Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th July, this event brings together the community for two days of aquatic fun, fitness, and festivity at the heart of Exmouth Seafront.
Saturday 18th July – Community, Creativity, and Coastal Fun
07:30am – 5:00pm
The festival kicks off bright and early with a refreshing Early Bird Dip, perfect for those who love starting the day with an ocean splash and a dose of sunrise serenity.
Next, lace up your trainers for the Ocean-Themed Parkrun – a scenic coastal route that blends fitness, fun, and salty air. Costumes, sea creature accessories, and sustainable flair are highly encouraged!
The morning rolls into adventure for younger participants with Kids’ Open Water Badges, offering a safe and confidence-building introduction to open water swimming led by experienced coaches – part funded by Sea Swim Devon.
As the day moves into the afternoon, the shoreline comes alive with action and skill as Exmouth Beach Rescue Club host exciting IRB (Inflatable Rescue Boat) rescue demonstrations. Watch trained crews in action as they showcase real-life rescue techniques and teamwork in the sun.
Visitors can also get involved with Beach Flags, a fast-paced, fun, and competitive activity open to the public. Test your speed, reactions, and beach skills in this classic lifesaving sport – perfect for all ages to have a go.
The afternoon continues with laughter, teamwork, and creativity taking centre stage in the Fancy Dress Raft Race. Gather a team, design your sea-worthy (or semi-sea-worthy!) craft, and paddle your way to glory
Points will be awarded for:
Theme and Outfits – let your creativity shine
Environmental Considerations – use sustainable and ocean-friendly materials
Raft Design & Structure – how well does your creation hold up?
Paddling Ability – can you complete the course (and stay afloat doing it)?
It’s a spectacle of colour, competition, and coastal camaraderie that promises entertainment for participants and spectators alike.
Sunday 19th July – The Sideshore Swim & Coaching
07:30am – 6:00pm
Sunday dives into pure aquatic performance with the Sideshore Swim, hosted in collaboration with Sportiva. Swimmers of all levels can take on open-water distances of 3000m, 1500m, or 750m, testing endurance and skill in the beautiful coastal waters.
Book tickets here:
https://sportivaevents.co.uk/events/sideshore-swim/
For multisport enthusiasts, the Sprint Aquathlon adds an exciting challenge — swim, run, and embrace the energy of the sea-to-shore journey.
Book tickets here:
https://sportivaevents.co.uk/events/sideshore-swim/
Rounding off the weekend, the afternoon features an Open Water Coaches Course, a hands-on training session designed to develop the next generation of open-water instructors. Whether you’re taking your first step into coaching or expanding your skills, this is a fantastic opportunity to learn from experienced professionals in a supportive setting.
To get involved and find out more about the coaching course please email Jane Hushon: [email protected]
Wrap up the weekend by getting involved in whatever suits you – whether that’s taking part, supporting others, or simply giving something new a try. It’s a great opportunity to spend time by the sea, connect with the community, and be part of something spectacular for Exmouth.
Spaces for activities are limited, so if you’re keen to join in, make sure to sign up in advance.
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Where is it happening?
Sideshore, Queen's Drive,Exmouth, Devon, Exeter, United KingdomEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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