With Summer on its way, now's a great time to start thinking about all the fun you can get up to. A popular trip for many around summertime is to hit the beach. If you're one of those people, we’ve put together a list of ten of some of the best beaches the UK has to offer.
1) Bournemouth Beach – Dorset
With its incredible seven miles of gorgeous golden sands, seaside pier, and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s no wonder Bournemouth Beach is popular and a receiver of many awards. Because of its size, even when it’s busy, you’re sure to find a nice spot to soak up the rays. If relaxing under a parasol on a beach lounger or chair isn’t your thing, there are plenty of fun-filled attractions, including an oceanarium and amusement park. If that wasn’t enough, it’s the perfect beach for water sports enthusiasts!
2) Kynance Cove – Cornwall
Undoubtedly one of the most picturesque destinations in the UK, Kynance Cove is a stunning beach west of the Lizard peninsula. With stunning water and serpentine rock towers, this beach is brilliant for passionate photographers looking for that perfect shot. Although you can swim, snorkel, and even explore some caves, there are no lifeguards, meaning you need to know the tide times. So long as you keep these things in mind, as well as stay clear of its cliff edges, your time at this Cornish gem will be one to treasure.
3) Weymouth Beach – Dorset
Brilliant for families and host to many sporting events, a trip to Weymouth’s sandy, three-mile-long beach is certainly one you’ll remember. The water is fantastic, so if the kids want to jump in, you can't go wrong with bringing some inflatables. Surrounding the beach are many attractions, including children’s rides and a land train! If you’d prefer to stay on the beach, you’re almost guaranteed to find some space to relax on a beach towel, enjoy a beach picnic, or build some sandcastles.
4) Bamburgh Beach – Northumberland
Bamburgh Beach has perhaps one of the most stunning views in the UK thanks to the magnificent Bamburgh Castle standing behind it. The beach is around 1.5 miles of white sand, making it perfect for long walks. As for the water, it's brilliant for surfers because of it's large waves. Just keep in mind that it won't significantly change temperature in the summer.
5) Porthcurno Beach – Cornwall
To the far west of Cornwall is the gorgeous Porthcurno Beach. The sea is an attractive turquoise colour, there are high cliffs that help deter wind, and more often than not, you can find a stream making its way down one side of the beach, forming a paddling pool for children to enjoy. If you go out to sea, it’s important to remain vigilant as the waves can be quite powerful, but so long as you keep an eye on them, these are some of the best waves a surfer can experience in the UK.
6) Scarista Beach – Isle of Harris
Ideal for sailing, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding – you name it, Scarista Beach has so much to offer. This beach is perfect for those who like a good walk, taking you between Scarista village and Northon village, with superb sea views of the Atlantic Ocean. Dogs are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends and make the most of this incredible beach.
7) Blakeney Point – Norfolk
Blakeney Point isn’t the ideal choice for someone looking to surf or sunbathe but is instead for fans of walking and wildlife. Part of the Blakeney National Nature Reserve, this three to four-mile sand and shingle beach is home to an abundance of birds, plants, as well as grey seals, with a birth rate of over 2500 annually!
8) Woolacombe Beach – Devon
Woolacombe beach is a three-mile stretch of incredibly soft sand, making it a popular destination for families. Located on Devon’s north coast, this beach has plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants, and you can even rent a beach hut. If that wasn’t enough incentive to plan a visit, dogs are welcome with only some summer restrictions. With its family-friendly atmosphere, make sure to use some sun care and make the most of the day.
9) Brighton Beach
Featuring the famous Brighton Palace Pier, with its rides, arcades and restaurants, Brighton Beach has just about everything you could want on a day out. Water sports is popular, there’s a children’s play area with a paddling pool, and you can even visit the local aquarium!
10) Sandbanks Beach – Poole
Offering a great view of the Isle of Wight on clear days, Sandbanks Beach consists of picture-perfect golden sands and clean, clear water. This beach is fantastic for families, with attractions such as crazy and mini-golf, a children’s play area, and a mini road train. Not to mention getting into the sea is easy thanks to the gradual slope in the seabed.
We hope you found this list helpful. If one of these beaches has caught your interest, we recommend making sure you have everything you need by checking out our extensive Beach Department.
