http://www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/great-sw-walks/
if you take a look at the walks shown for Torbay and East Devon you will find one due to take place in Dawlish.
Thanks for the post Lynne. I notice they say "Come and enjoy the great views from the coast path, along the recently repaired seawall." I hope no-one's disappointed with the picturesque detour along Exeter Road ;)
Yes, I also thought along similar lines to yourself when I read that bit.