With over 7,700 miles of coastline, the UK is home to some of the most spectacular beaches, charming seaside towns, and dramatic coastal scenery in Europe. From the rugged cliffs of Cornwall to the tranquil shores of Suffolk, there's a coastal getaway for every type of traveler. As the weather warms up and thoughts turn to summer holidays, we've compiled our list of the top 10 coastal destinations in the UK that should be on your radar this season.
Whether you're looking for pristine sandy beaches, water sports adventures, fresh seafood, or picturesque harbors, these destinations offer the perfect coastal escape without having to leave the country. Let's explore the best of British seaside charm!
1. St Ives, Cornwall
Often described as the jewel in Cornwall's crown, St Ives combines pristine sandy beaches with a thriving arts scene. The town's unique quality of light has attracted artists for generations, resulting in a vibrant cultural hub featuring the Tate St Ives gallery and numerous artisan shops and studios.
Porthmeor Beach offers excellent surfing conditions, while the more sheltered Porthminster Beach is perfect for families. After a day on the sand, wander through the town's narrow cobbled streets, sample the catch of the day at one of the harbor-front restaurants, or take the scenic coastal path to nearby Carbis Bay.
Don't Miss: The Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, showcasing the work of one of Britain's most important 20th-century artists in the very studio and garden where she lived and worked.
2. Whitstable, Kent
Just over an hour from London, Whitstable offers the perfect coastal escape for city dwellers. This charming fishing town is famous for its oysters, which have been harvested here since Roman times and are celebrated each July at the Whitstable Oyster Festival.
The town has retained its traditional character with weatherboard cottages, a working harbor, and colorful beach huts along the shingle beach. Harbour Street is lined with independent shops, galleries, and seafood restaurants, while the Old Neptune pub sits right on the beach, providing the perfect spot for a sunset drink.
Don't Miss: Buying fresh seafood directly from the fishermen's huts at the harbor and enjoying it on the beach with a bottle of local wine.
3. Bamburgh, Northumberland
For dramatic coastal views and historical significance, few places can match Bamburgh. The village is dominated by the magnificent Bamburgh Castle, which stands on a basalt outcrop overlooking one of Britain's most spectacular beaches – a vast stretch of pristine golden sand backed by rolling dunes.
The Northumberland coast is known for its wild beauty and lack of crowds, even in peak summer. From Bamburgh, you can take boat trips to the nearby Farne Islands, one of the UK's most important seabird sanctuaries and home to a colony of Atlantic grey seals.
Don't Miss: A visit to the RNLI Grace Darling Museum, which tells the story of the Victorian heroine who helped rescue survivors from a shipwreck in 1838.
4. Lyme Regis, Dorset
Known as "The Pearl of Dorset," Lyme Regis sits at the heart of the Jurassic Coast, England's first natural UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town combines ancient history with seaside charm, making it perfect for families and fossil hunters alike.
The famous Cobb harbor wall, featured in Jane Austen's "Persuasion" and John Fowles' "The French Lieutenant's Woman," curves protectively around the ancient harbor. Nearby Monmouth Beach is a fossil hunter's paradise, where ammonites and even ichthyosaur remains can be discovered.
Don't Miss: A guided fossil hunting walk with a local expert, followed by a visit to the Lyme Regis Museum to learn about local paleontologist Mary Anning's groundbreaking discoveries.
5. Tenby, Pembrokeshire
With its pastel-colored Georgian houses perched above a picturesque harbor, Tenby is one of Wales' most photogenic coastal towns. Surrounded by medieval stone walls, the town boasts four stunning sandy beaches, each with its own distinct character.
North Beach, with its iconic Goskar rock, is ideal for families; South Beach stretches for nearly two miles offering plenty of space; Castle Beach, beneath the ruins of Tenby Castle, is perfect for rock pooling; and Harbour Beach provides a sheltered spot for swimming.
Don't Miss: A boat trip to nearby Caldey Island, home to a community of Cistercian monks who make and sell their own chocolate, perfume, and shortbread.
Planning Tips for UK Coastal Getaways
- Book accommodation early: The most popular coastal destinations get booked up months in advance for the summer season, especially for school holiday periods.
- Consider shoulder seasons: June and September often offer lovely weather with fewer crowds and lower prices.
- Check tide times: Many beaches change dramatically with the tide, and some activities like coastal walks may only be possible at low tide.
- Be prepared for changeable weather: Even in summer, British weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers and waterproofs.
- Research parking options: Many seaside towns have limited parking, especially in peak season. Consider public transport or park-and-ride schemes where available.
6. Salcombe, Devon
Often referred to as the UK's "French Riviera," Salcombe is a stylish sailing resort nestled in the South Hams area of Devon. The town's sheltered harbor, surrounded by steep, wooded hills and pretty coves, creates a microclimate that's among the warmest in Britain.
Water activities are central to Salcombe's appeal, with sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding readily available. The town is also known for its upscale boutiques, art galleries, and excellent dining scene, with seafood being the star attraction.
Don't Miss: A day trip to the nearby beaches of East Portlemouth, accessible by a short ferry ride from Salcombe, which offer crystal-clear waters and views back to the picturesque town.
7. Southwold, Suffolk
Southwold represents the quintessential English seaside town, with its lighthouse, beach huts, award-winning pier, and sandy beach. This unspoiled gem on the Suffolk coast has retained its traditional charm while offering quality accommodations, boutique shops, and excellent restaurants.
The town is home to Adnams Brewery, which has been brewing beer in Southwold since 1872. Visitors can tour the brewery, visit the Adnams store, or enjoy a pint in one of the town's characterful pubs. The beach is backed by a row of colorful beach huts, some of which sell for eye-watering sums.
Don't Miss: A walk along Southwold Pier, which combines traditional seaside amusements with modern attractions, including the eccentric "Under the Pier Show" – a collection of unique, handcrafted arcade machines.
8. Portrush, Northern Ireland
Portrush is Northern Ireland's premier seaside resort, perfectly positioned to explore the spectacular Causeway Coast. The town boasts three superb beaches: West Strand, East Strand, and Whiterocks, the latter renowned for its white limestone cliffs and caves.
Beyond its natural beauty, Portrush offers family-friendly attractions including Barry's Amusements, Northern Ireland's largest theme park. Golf enthusiasts can test their skills at the world-famous Royal Portrush Golf Club, host of The Open Championship.
Don't Miss: A day trip along the Causeway Coastal Route to visit the Giant's Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge – three of Northern Ireland's most iconic attractions.
9. North Berwick, East Lothian
Just 30 minutes from Edinburgh, North Berwick combines beautiful beaches with dramatic coastal scenery and excellent amenities. The town's location on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth offers spectacular views across to Fife and the volcanic Bass Rock, home to the world's largest northern gannet colony.
The town center features independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, while outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy coastal walks, bird watching at the Scottish Seabird Centre, or climbing North Berwick Law – a distinct conical hill offering panoramic views.
Don't Miss: A boat trip around the Bass Rock to witness the incredible spectacle of over 150,000 gannets nesting on the island – described by Sir David Attenborough as "one of the wildlife wonders of the world."
10. Beaumaris, Anglesey
Completing our tour of the UK coastline is Beaumaris, a charming town on the Isle of Anglesey in North Wales. The town's name derives from the French "beau marais" meaning "beautiful marsh," a nod to its picturesque setting on the Menai Strait with views towards the mountains of Snowdonia.
The town's crown jewel is Beaumaris Castle, considered by many to be the most technically perfect castle in Britain with its symmetrical design and concentric "walls within walls" defense system. Along the seafront, a pier and Victorian promenade provide pleasant places to stroll and take in the scenery.
Don't Miss: A boat trip to Puffin Island, just off the coast of Anglesey, to spot seabirds including puffins (April to July), razorbills, and guillemots, as well as grey seals and occasional dolphins.
Conclusion: Embracing Britain's Coastal Charm
The UK's coastline offers an incredible diversity of experiences, from the rugged cliffs of Northumberland to the subtropical microclimate of Cornwall. Each of our top 10 coastal getaways has its own distinct character and appeal, but all share the timeless charm that makes British seaside towns so special.
Whether you're seeking family-friendly beaches, water sports adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a peaceful retreat by the sea, these destinations deliver unforgettable coastal experiences without the need for overseas travel. The humble "staycation" has been rediscovered by many in recent years, and these coastal gems are proof that some of the world's most beautiful shorelines can be found right here in the United Kingdom.
As you plan your summer holidays, consider exploring these coastal treasures – just remember to book early, pack for all weather conditions, and prepare to fall in love with Britain's extraordinary coastline.
"The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever." - Jacques Cousteau
