Dawlish Warren is located at the mouth of the Exe Estuary opposite Exmouth and has a beach, a National Nature Reserve[2] spanning 506 acres (2 km2) and a golf course, which is classified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

This spit has reduced in size within the past century due to erosion partly caused by the installation of a breakwater at Langstone Rock to the south-west which traps sand from the local sandstone cliffs and interrupts the natural sediment flow of the area.

Along with neighbouring Dawlish, this corner of south Devon has a favourable climate[7][circular reference], which draws thousands of visitors to the area in summer.

Because of this, the Dawlish Warren economy relies heavily on tourism, and in particular on the many caravan and camping parks in the village which add over 15,000 to the local population during the summer months.

Dawlish Warren has a doctor's surgery, a pharmacy and an independent supermarket, along with several gift shops which cater for tourist traffic.