places to visit seaside uk

10 stunning seaside getaways in the UK

Who doesn’t love the beach? Whether it’s building the biggest sandcastles, taking romantic walks along the shore, surfing the most impressive waves, or simply soaking up the sun, salty breeze, and spectacular views, the seaside has something for everyone.

The good news is you don’t have to leave the UK to find the prettiest seaside towns, idyllic sandy coastlines, and sparkling azure waters.

In my travels, I’ve found that our nation has plenty to offer to those looking for seaside serenity and a coastal holiday from city life.

Here are the best seaside getaways in the UK for some fun in the sun, no passport necessary!

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

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1. Camber Sands, East Sussex

Best for: Coastal walks, sand dune viewing, and water sports

Nestled along the East Sussex coast, you’ll find a stunning stretch of golden shores called Camber Sands .

It’s one of the most well-loved destinations for summer and offers unspoilt views of picturesque dunes, breathtaking seascapes, and a nature reserve for wildlife and plants.

Kitesurfing, water sports, and horse riding are popular pastimes at Camber. Nearby attractions include the Camber Castle and the historic hilltop town of Rye .

Getting lost in Rye’s ancient cobblestone streets, mysterious inns, and charming shops and boutiques is always a delight for me!

I’d highly recommend staying at The Gallivant if you’re in the area. 

2. Torquay, Devon 

Best for: Seafood, swimming, and sightseeing

The captivating seaside town of Torquay is set on Devon’s romantic English Riviera coast .

It’s famous for its gleaming beaches, palm tree-lined promenade, and horseshoe-shaped bay.

The water is warm, safe, and shallow – perfect for sports, sailing, or just swimming and splashing!

A stroll around town will reveal Torquay’s rich history and vibrant culture. Unique attractions abound, like Torquay Pier, Oddicombe Beach , Anstey’s Cove , and Agatha Christie’s residence .

After a busy day of exploring, take the time to indulge in some fresh seafood on the Seafood Coast.

3. Newquay, Cornwall 

Best for: Surfing, marine life, and garden enthusiasts

Miles of fine-sand beaches , magnificent aquamarine seas, and thrilling surf culture are only three of the many reasons you’ll want to visit the slice of paradise known as Newquay.

Perched on Cornwall’s Atlantic Coast, it’s been voted One of the Nation’s Favourite Seaside Towns.

Aside from being a haven for surfers, Newquay is also home to Cornwall’s largest zoo , tropical gardens, and the Blue Reef Aquarium .

The latter features an underwater tunnel passing through a coral reef tank with pufferfish, rays, and sharks. An underwater adventure awaits!

I’d recommend staying at the Headland Hotel for a truly incredible spa.

4. Weymouth, Dorset

Best for: Town tours, seascapes, and shopping

The Georgian town of Weymouth is your quintessential holiday destination! 

With golden sands sprinkled with colourful huts, fishing boats bobbing in the harbour, and streets lined with chip shops and pastel-painted houses, it makes the perfect seaside getaway. 

Don’t forget to drop by the Nothe Fort for incredible views of Weymouth Bay and the Isle of Portland .

I love passing by St Alban Street , which is packed with hip indie shops and trendy boutiques selling everything from handmade clothes to artisanal goods and special trinkets. 

5. Margate, Kent

Best for: Sunbathing, family fun, arts and culture scene

Margate is a timeless English seaside holiday town sitting beautifully on the scenic Kent coast .

It blends old-world charm with 21st-century culture, with popular attractions like the Dreamland Margate amusement park, Shell Grotto museum, and Turner Contemporary art gallery.

There’s no shortage of sandy beaches to enjoy a sunny day in Margate! My favourite shores include Palm Bay Beach, Walpole Bay, and the fun and family-friendly Margate Main Sands .

Read my guide to the best things to do in Kent , or discover the best spa hotels in Kent .

6. Tenby, Wales

Best for: Coastal walks, castles, and island-hopping

When in Wales, you cannot miss Tenby, a pretty harbour town brimming with history. It’s one of the country’s most iconic seaside destinations .

Also known as the “little town of fishes,” Tenby’s castle walls, Victorian architecture, and gorgeous coastline draw visitors from all over the world.

Get to know the town and gaze at the blue-grey seas by going on a wonderful coastal walk – I recommend the Pembrokeshire Coast Path .

For a true Tenby experience, drop by Tenby Harbour, explore the Tudor Merchant’s House or take a boat trip to Caldey Island .

7. Southwold, Suffolk

Best for: Entertainment, dog-friendly beaches, and delicious food

If you’re looking for a mix of peaceful countryside and vibrant beach life on your next holiday, Southwold is the UK seaside town for you. 

A working lighthouse, a cliff-top cannon, a pretty hut-lined promenade, and the beautiful Southwold Beach reveal the town’s nostalgic charm.

For a fantastic day by the seaside, I’d recommend taking a scenic walk along the pier. 

Here you’ll find plenty of fun attractions like the quirky Water Clock and the hilarious Under the Pier show.

There are also cafes, carts, and restaurants serving everything from fish and chips to doughnuts.

8. Tresco, Isles of Scilly

Best for: Relaxation, gardens, and wildlife watching

Tropical island paradise is one way to describe Tresco, a small, family-owned island in Scilly.

It’s home to pristine white-sand beaches, clear blue waters, the world-famous Abbey Garden , and convenient amenities like holiday cottages, a leisure spa, and restaurants for beachfront dining.

But that’s not all Tresco has to offer. King Charles’s Castle , Apple Tree Bay, the Valhalla Collection, and Tresco’s freshwater pools are nearby, waiting for you to explore them!

9. St Ives, Cornwall

Best for: Picturesque scenery, beach-hopping, and water activities

Frequently voted as the Best Family Holiday Destination, it’s hard not to fall in love at first seaside in St Ives !

Here you’ll find whitewashed cottages, cobbled streets, and gleaming lighthouses. This bustling and beautiful harbour town also holds some of the finest art galleries in the UK.

Choose from five fantastic beaches, with translucent waters, waving palm trees, and a unique tropical feel.

I’d recommend Porthmeor and Porthminster as best for surfing, swimming, sunbathing, and sea views – everything you need for the ultimate seaside getaway!

10. Brighton, East Sussex

Best for: Seaside attractions, vintage shops, and cool nightlife

Colourful and culture-rich Brighton draws crowds to its pebbly beaches and exciting Palace Pier every year.

Only 1.5 hours away from London, you’ll never have a dull moment in this iconic seaside city and its stunning shores, quirky attractions , buzzing nightlife, and energetic crowd. 

My list of must-visits will always include the Royal Pavilion for a seaside retreat for the eyes, and the Brighton i360 for immense views of the city.

Plus, you cannot miss The Lanes for its intriguing collection of vintage shops, designer boutiques, excellent restaurants, and countless traditional pubs and bars.

Have you experienced any of these stunning seaside getaways in the UK? Let me know your favourites in the comments! 

You may also like: 

• 10 breathtaking places in the UK that look like they’re abroad
• 10 pretty fairytale towns in the UK
• 10 must-visit hidden gems in the UK

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Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

Find me on: Web | Instagram

Pocket Wanderings is a luxury travel and lifestyle brand run by London-based content creator, Jessie Moore. Here you’ll find a community of fellow wanderlusters and adventurers.

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