Here in Britain’s Ocean City, we’re proud to be home to the UK’s first National Marine Park. This means we’re working to protect the ocean on our doorstep as well as making it easier for everyone to get in, on and under the water to make the most of the wellbeing benefits the sea offers.

In honour of World Ocean Day today (8 June), we’re sharing ten of the best ways to celebrate the sea in Plymouth.

Whether you’re the kind of person who wants to dive straight in or would like to keep your feet dry and admire the views, we’ve got the activity for you!

1. Get paddling 

If the idea of exploring by kayak or learning to stand-up paddle board appeals, book a beginner’s session and learn from the experts at South West SUP in Royal William Yard or Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre.  

2. Take a trip to The Box

Want to learn all about Plymouth’s maritime heritage but would rather stay dry? The Box’s ‘Port of Plymouth’ exhibition explores the city’s long links with the sea, while the impressive display of 14 Royal Naval figureheads, suspended from the ceiling, is an unmissable sight.  

3. Sail away  

You could charter a yacht for an extra special experience or get hands on and learn to sail with an RYA accredited course from the Mount Batten Centre, Plymouth Sailing School or Start Point Sailing.  

4. Try wild swimming  

Fancy a refreshing dip? There are two designated safe swimming areas in the Sound - Tinside beach and Firestone Bay at Devil’s Point. Just off Tinside beach you’ll also find two pontoons to enjoy during the summer months. Remember to check safety advice and tide times before you dive in.

5. Go on a Snorkel Safari 

Join the Ocean Discovery Rangers from the National Marine Aquarium for a snorkel safari, learning more about life under the ocean and experiencing it first-hand. Throughout the summer there are beginner sessions from Mount Batten Beach, as well as sessions for more experienced snorkellers.  

6. Visit Drake’s Island  

In the centre of Plymouth Sound lies the mysterious six-acre Drake’s Island. Take a guided tour to learn all about its colourful history and keep an eye out for local wildlife.  

7. Explore Mount Edgcumbe 

The beautiful peninsula of Mount Edgcumbe Country Park is technically in Cornwall, but it’s just a short hop by ferry from Plymouth and boasts beautiful beaches and walks with great views of Plymouth Sound.  

8. Follow the South West Coast Path  

Walk along Plymouth’s Waterfront Walkway, a key section of the South West Coast Path which links the stunning vista of Jennycliff with the historic Royal William Yard – whether you walk just some or all of the path, beautiful views are guaranteed!  

9. Explore rock pools 

Head to Mount Batten beach with The Rock Pool Project team for a ‘rock pool safari’, where you can learn all about the creatures that live on our shores with the help of their knowledgeable guides.  

10. Clean up the coast 

Join a litter pick and help make a difference to the world around us. The National Marine Aquarium run hour-long coastal litter picks on Friday mornings at 11am, and everyone is welcome to come along and help reduce the amount of plastic pollution. All the equipment is provided, so all you need to bring is your enthusiasm!

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Find out more about the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park and follow @PlymSoundNMP on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the latest news.

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Plymouth is easily accessible by train with a wide range of services running from a variety of locations within England. Although some services may require a change or two.

Travelling from London takes around 3 hours with Great Western Railway, if you're coming from the north, the trip from Manchester can take 5 hours 15 minutes. 

Alternatively, the recently renovated Night Riviera Sleeper service runs Monday – Friday and Sunday evenings. Visit gwr.com/sleeper for more details on times and how to book.

We recommend using GWR.com to search for the fastest and best route for your journey, and book in advance for the best price.