Discover our list of the best beaches in England
- May 28
- 4 min read
England’s coastline offers a surprising variety of beaches, from bustling seaside towns to quiet, untouched shores. Whether you want to soak up the sun, explore rock pools, or enjoy water sports, England’s beaches have something for everyone. This guide highlights ten of the best beaches across the country, mixing well-known favorites with lesser-known treasures. Each beach includes details on location, unique features, activities, visitor tips, and nearby attractions to help you plan your perfect coastal getaway.
1. Bournemouth Beach, Dorset
Location: South coast, Dorset
Unique Features: Seven miles of golden sand, vibrant promenade, and excellent facilities
Activities: Swimming, paddleboarding, beach volleyball, and family-friendly events
Visitor Tips: Visit during summer for lively atmosphere and festivals. Early mornings offer peaceful walks.
Nearby Attractions: Bournemouth Pier, Russell-Cotes Art Gallery, and the Lower Gardens
Bournemouth Beach is one of England’s most popular seaside spots, known for its clean sand and clear water. The beach is perfect for families and groups, with plenty of cafes and shops along the promenade. Lifeguards patrol the beach in summer, making it safe for swimmers.
2. Whitby Beach, North Yorkshire
Location: Yorkshire coast, near the town of Whitby
Unique Features: Historic fishing town backdrop, dramatic cliffs, and black sand patches
Activities: Fossil hunting, crabbing, surfing, and exploring Whitby Abbey
Visitor Tips: Visit in spring or early autumn to avoid crowds but still enjoy mild weather.
Nearby Attractions: Whitby Abbey, Captain Cook Memorial Museum, and the old harbour
Whitby Beach combines natural beauty with rich history. The beach’s mix of sand and pebbles makes it ideal for fossil hunters. After a day on the beach, explore the town’s charming streets and sample fresh seafood.
3. Holkham Beach, Norfolk
Location: North Norfolk coast, near Wells-next-the-Sea
Unique Features: Vast, unspoiled sandy beach backed by pine forests and dunes
Activities: Horse riding, kite flying, birdwatching, and long coastal walks
Visitor Tips: Bring a picnic and prepare for changing tides. The beach is remote, so plan ahead for parking and facilities.
Nearby Attractions: Holkham Hall, Wells-next-the-Sea harbour, and RSPB nature reserves
Holkham Beach is a hidden gem known for its wide-open spaces and natural beauty. It’s perfect for visitors seeking peace and quiet away from busy resorts. The beach’s shallow waters are safe for children to paddle in.
4. Fistral Beach, Cornwall
Location: Newquay, Cornwall
Unique Features: Renowned surf spot with consistent waves and surf schools
Activities: Surfing, bodyboarding, beach yoga, and coastal hiking
Visitor Tips: Best visited in late spring to early autumn for warmer water and surf conditions.
Nearby Attractions: Newquay Zoo, Blue Reef Aquarium, and the South West Coast Path
Fistral Beach is England’s top surfing destination. Beginners can take lessons at one of the many surf schools, while experienced surfers enjoy the challenging waves. The beach also hosts surfing competitions and festivals.
5. Camber Sands, East Sussex
Location: Near Rye, East Sussex
Unique Features: Expansive golden dunes and wide sandy beach
Activities: Sand yachting, kite flying, beach volleyball, and windsurfing
Visitor Tips: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds, especially in summer. Bring wind protection as it can get breezy.
Nearby Attractions: Rye town, Camber Castle, and Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
Camber Sands stands out for its impressive dunes and open space. It’s a favorite for families and outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy active beach days. The nearby historic town of Rye offers quaint shops and eateries.
6. Blackpool Sands, Devon
Location: Near Dartmouth, South Devon
Unique Features: Pebble beach with turquoise water and sheltered cove feel
Activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and beach picnics
Visitor Tips: Arrive early in summer to secure parking. The beach has a café and kayak hire.
Nearby Attractions: Dartmouth Castle, South West Coast Path, and the historic town of Dartmouth
Despite its name, Blackpool Sands is a pebble beach with stunning clear water. It’s quieter than many sandy beaches and offers excellent water sports opportunities. The surrounding cliffs provide shelter from strong winds.
7. Saltburn-by-the-Sea, North Yorkshire
Location: North Yorkshire coast
Unique Features: Victorian pier, red sandstone cliffs, and a charming seaside town
Activities: Surfing, fishing, cliff walks, and visiting the pier’s amusement arcade
Visitor Tips: Visit in summer for the pier’s events and festivals. The town has good cafes and shops for a full day out.
Nearby Attractions: Saltburn Cliff Lift, Valley Gardens, and the Cleveland Way
Saltburn-by-the-Sea blends traditional seaside charm with natural beauty. The beach is popular with surfers and families alike. The cliff lift offers a unique way to reach the beach from the town.
8. Porthcurno Beach, Cornwall
Location: Near Land’s End, Cornwall
Unique Features: White sand, turquoise water, and dramatic cliffs
Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, exploring nearby Minack Theatre, and coastal walks
Visitor Tips: Arrive early in summer to avoid parking issues. The beach is sheltered, making it ideal for swimming.
Nearby Attractions: Minack Theatre, Land’s End, and the Logan Rock
Porthcurno Beach is a stunning spot with crystal-clear water and a sheltered cove. It’s perfect for families and those who enjoy scenic walks. The nearby Minack Theatre, carved into the cliffs, offers unique cultural experiences.
9. West Wittering Beach, West Sussex
Location: West Sussex coast, near Chichester
Unique Features: Wide sandy beach with dunes and salt marshes
Activities: Windsurfing, kite surfing, sailing, and birdwatching
Visitor Tips: The beach is popular on sunny weekends, so visit early or late in the day. Facilities include cafes and toilets.
Nearby Attractions: Chichester Harbour, Fishbourne Roman Palace, and the South Downs National Park
West Wittering Beach is a favorite for water sports enthusiasts. The clean sand and clear water make it a great spot for families. The nearby harbour and countryside offer additional outdoor activities.
10. Holme-next-the-Sea, Norfolk
Location: North Norfolk coast
Unique Features: Quiet shingle beach with salt marshes and birdwatching hides
Activities: Birdwatching, walking, cycling, and nature photography
Visitor Tips: Best visited in spring and autumn for birdwatching. Facilities are limited, so bring supplies.
Nearby Attractions: RSPB Reserve, Thornham village, and Holme Dunes National Nature Reserve
Holme-next-the-Sea offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. The beach is part of a protected area with diverse wildlife. It’s ideal for visitors who want to combine beach time with nature exploration.
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