Best UK Beaches for a Vacation

If you’re thinking of a beach vacation in the UK but you’re unsure which are the best beaches then here is our guide to the best UK coastal resorts that you could enjoy. If you would like to find out more about our customized UK beach vacations, which are tailored in every way to your exact needs, please click here.

As a general rule, the best beaches can be found on the south and west coasts of the UK, and there are some particularly pretty beaches in Cornwall, which sits on the far south-west of the UK mainland. However, it is also important to consider what you want from you beach vacation: do you want a tranquil and relaxing escape to nature or would you prefer a lively beach resort with a fun nightlife or perhaps you’re looking for a family-friendly location with activities for the children. Keep this is mind when reading this guide so that you can find the perfect resort for you!

Watergate Bay, Newquay (North Cornwall)

Best for: Nature lovers

Watergate Bay is home to two miles of golden sand framed by rugged cliff faces, which hide natural caves and rare wildlife, such as peregrine falcons and fulmars wheel. There are rock pools to discover, where you’ll find crabs and strawberry anemones, and the Atlantic swell in this region ensures reliable surf. You can enjoy surf lessons with Extreme Academy or take the children kiting.

Porthcurno, near Land’s End (South Cornwall)

Best for: Sand seekers

This is surely one of the UK’s prettiest bays, where you’ll find sandy beaches backed by granite cliffs. It is best enjoyed at low tide as then you can walk between the different beaches and enjoy the blue waters and coastal scenery. Parts of the bay are popular with families but note that there is also a nudist beach along this bay!

Pentle Bay, Tresco (Isles of Scilly)

Best for: Relaxation

Pentle Bay is the best place to head for if you want white sandy beaches, emerald-green ocean, lush vegetation and bright blue skies. It has an almost tropical feel and makes for a particularly relaxing and rejuvenating beach break.

Blackpool Sands (South Devon)

Best for: Families

Devon is another great stretch on the south coast to head for if you want a UK beach vacation. Blackpool Sands is not far from Dartmouth and is popular with families due to the array of activities available, including swimming, paddle boarding and kayaking. The waters here are also clean and tend to be calm.

Studland Bay (Dorset)

Best for: Romantics

Studland Bay has a desert island atmosphere and is a great place to go for peace and tranquility on a romantic vacation in the UK. It has 4 miles of white sand backed by grassy dunes and heathland. It is best reached by chain ferry and there is a National Trust Beach Café at Knoll Beach, which serves hot and cold food and snacks.

Compton Bay (Isle of Wight)

Best for: Natural history enthusiasts

The Isle of Wight is a lovely retreat for couples and families and has some beautiful natural scenery, as well as activities, such as dinosaur trails, nature parks, a zoo and ancient castles. Compton Bay is an unspoiled stretch of coast, where you can find ancient dinosaur tracks on the foreshore and fossils embedded into the cliffs, making it a great destination for families or those interested in natural history.

If you’re thinking about a UK beach vacation and would like us to put together a personalized vacation package for you, including pre-arranged tours and activities, contact a member of our dedicated team on 1-347-594-5500 or click here to send an online inquiry. You can also click here to find out more about our customized UK beach vacations or this page gives you an overview of some of the tours and vacations that we offer.