25 Best Beaches in the UK for Families

25 Best Beaches in the UK for Families. There is something about being close to the sea which always appeals to me. I will always choose a trip to the beach over a city break any day. The boys are the same and so over the years, we have been to some beautiful beaches in the UK. Many of which could be mistaken for being in Europe and the Caribbean, some with white sands and crystal clear waters. It was actually quite difficult to narrow it down to just twenty-five UK beaches. 

25 Best Beaches in the UK for Families 

These are our absolute favourite beaches in the UK, the perfect place to spend a sunny day. Let me know if I am missing any of yours in the comments below. If you are camping and fancy paddleboarding, check out the best campsites for paddleboarding. 

1. Shell Beach Herm Island

An amazing find Herm Island is located just of the coast of Gurnsey. Reachable by a twenty-minute boat ride from St Peters Port you could easily be in the Caribbean. Shell beach is only a short walk from the port (more details in the visitor centre) so-called as the beach is made up of tiny shell fragments. With wide white sandy beaches, rock pools when the tide is out and shallow turquoise water it is ideal for families. It is an area of outstanding natural beauty. There is a restaurant and shop on the island and in the Summer the opportunity to take part in water sports. 

READ MORE  – Reasons to visit Herm Island  

2. Camber Sands

I still remember laying on the beach in September protected by the sand dunes closing my eyes and thinking we were abroad. On a good day, Camber Sands is stunning. And without double my favourite beach in Southern England. Although with vast stretches of sand when it’s windy you could mistake it for a sand storm! Not only does the sand stretch for miles there is also a nature reserve nearby to explore. There are traditional seaside shops in the car park and several places to eat and get ice cream on the road that runs parallel to the beach. Although there is a good-sized pay and display car park you would still want to get there early in high season. Behind the blue flag status beach, there are plenty of holiday rentals all within walking distance if you want to make a weekend of it.  Camber Sands is on the East Sussex/Kent border, use postcode TN31 7RH

READ MORE – Crabbing in Rye & Rye Nature Reserve

3. West Wittering 

This is our local beach and we visit a lot. In fact, I think it got us through 2021 and homeschooling. Our Friday mornings at the beach were a much-needed tonic. Again with sands that stretch for miles and a low shallow runoff to the water, it is a great place to learn to bodyboard. Even at a high tide there is still miles of golden sand. The shallow sea is perfect for little ones and there is plenty of parking. Although it is popular I would recommend booking parking in advance. In the car park, there is a cafe and toilets. With cute beach huts and the occasional Spitfire flying over it makes a wonderful day trip. West Wittering is in Chichester West Sussex use postcode P020 8AJ.

4. Rhossili Bay

We visited over Easter and had the most fantastic weather. Located right next to the National Trust the bay is reached by walking down some steps. It is steep but more than worth it. There is plenty of parking at the National Trust property which costs £10 for the day. The stunning bay stretches for miles when the tide is out. There is even a small shipwreck to explore.  Located on the Gower Peninsula in South Wales near Swansea you can use postcode SA3 IPP. if you visit in the Summer make sure you leave time to see the fields of sunflowers planted by the National Trust.

READ MORE – Picture Postcard from Rhossilli Bay 5. Coral Beach

Reportedly the most beautiful beach on the Isle of Skye Coral Bay is made from calcified seaweed. The white sand and the turquoise waters are stunning and unsurprisingly popular and off of the beaten track. There is only a small car park so arrive early if you want to visit! From the car park, the beach is a mile walk along a dirt track. We ended up visiting at 9 pm in the evening as we couldn’t get into the carpark in the morning. There are no amenities at all so make sure you pack drinks and a picnic. At low tide, you can walk across to Lampay. Be aware that just like many of the other roads the car park is reached by a single track. It is an ideal spot to watch the sun go down. Located in the North West of the Island use postcode IV55 8WF for the car park.

READ MORE – Itinerary for Three Nights in the Isle of Skye

6. Dungeness 

If you are looking for something which is completely different then Dungeness is definitely that! When we visited we took the Dymchurch Railway from Romney Marsh. Many say it has an otherworldly feel. The randomly placed black wooden cottages, lighthouses and sheer wilderness definitely make you feel as though you are somewhere else other than Kent. The vast shingle spit is offset by the power station, but that doesn’t stop the local’s fishing. There are a couple of cafes for refreshments. I would definitely recommend the railway to get a different perspective on the area.  Located in Kent use postcode TN29 9NE.

7. Brighton

Having spent a long time in Brighton at university and later living there with my now husband Brighton has to feature. Although my view has been tainted over the years, it is still a massive draw and so this pebble beach deserves a space on our list of 25 Fantastic Beaches in the UK. The pier is full of amusements and arcades, the arches that run along underneath the road house art galleries and bespoke shops. Plus there are so many eateries and bars to choose from. There is also the i360, wheel and train that runs along the Victorian seafront. With plenty to see and do a day is not enough. Parking is expensive but most are within easy reach of the beach. Located in East Sussex use postcode BN2 1PS.  

READ MORE – Where to find the Banksy in Brighton

8. Bamburgh 

I was surprised by just how stunning the beaches were in Northumberland, again huge expanses of white sand that seemed to stretch for miles and Bamburgh beach was no different. We needed to walk across the dunes to reach it. But you are rewarded with this beautiful view of Bamburgh castle. We arrived early and so managed to get parked right next to the castle. We did not spot any amenities so make sure you pack your picnic. Although there are several places to eat in the high street and I would recommend a wander around the village. Located on the north coast of Northumberland use postcode NE69 7DF for the castle or NE69 7BJ for the Links carpark.

9. Rock Beach

This is one of our secret discoveries having been lucky enough to visit Cornwall several times over the years and always in the school holidays. We have found Rock beach to be very quiet in comparison to many others. Opposite Padstow, you can even get a boat across to it. Although we have always driven around and parked. The car park is not a bad size but there is a lot more parking at Padstow. There are toilets and it is only a short walk down from the carpark. When the tide goes out it creates a spit and a shallow swimming area.  It is a great beach for flying kites too! Located on the North Cornwall Coast use postcode PL27 6LD to reach the carpark.

READ MORE – A quiet beach in Cornwall even in the school holidays

READ MORE – The best place for Crabbing in Cornwall

10. Croyde Bay

Croyde Bay is most definitely my happy place. There is something about it that is so restorative. Vast sands especially when the tide is out, shallow waters, great rock pooling and surf. It is a great spot and there is something for everyone at Croyde Bay although you will need a wetsuit to get into the water. Access to the beach is either over the sand dunes or via the village. In the village itself, there are numerous places to grab a bit to eat, ice cream or a cream tea. There is also a shop selling everything you could possibly need for a trip to the beach. Just make sure you stay for the sun going down as I think Croyde boasts the best sunsets I have seen in the UK. You can reach this perfect beach over the grassy dunes or from the town centre. Located in North Devon use postcode EX33 1NZ to take you to the car park

READ MORE – Croyde Bay Holidays

READ MORE – Best place for Rock Pooling in Devon

11. Porthmeor Beach

Often overlooked because of its close proximity to Carbis Bay Porthmeor Beach has the same stunning stretch of white sand and turquoise water.  Not far from the centre of St Ives it has opportunities for rock pooling and surfing. It is easy to access and has all the amenities you need with a family. Plus a couple of stunning looking beach bars where you can simply take in the view.  It also has a blue flag. Located in Cornwall use postcode TR26 2BN.

12.  Seven Sisters Country Park

Completely different from everything else so far are the Seven Sisters and the small beach that runs along the bottom.  They can sometimes be confused with the white cliffs of Dover. But are much whiter and easier to reach.  A memory from my own childhood we use to visit regularly.  It is around a 45-minute walk to get down to the beach, but with ample parking, the country park makes a great day out.  There are various trails and hiking routes across the cliffs. Even if you do not make it down to the beaches then the views across the cliffs are stunning.  There are a couple of good pubs close by including the Cuckmere Inn. If you visit during the springtime then you will also be able to catch lambing season at the Seven Sisters Sheep Centre. Seven Sisters is located in East Sussex near Seaford postcode BN25 4AD.

READ MORE – Seven Sisters Sheep Centre

13. Rhosneigr

A relatively new beach to us we visited after going to South Stack Lighthouse, Traeth LlydanTraeth Llydan (broad beach) which is one of the two Rhosneigr beaches. We found parking easily on the road during a very busy day during the August holidays. Opposite a beachfront bar and restaurant The Oyster Catcher. Which also has a large carpark and looks like a great place to soak up some rays. We did not stop as the boys were too keen to get to the beach! Traeth Llydan is a short walk across the sand dunes. With masses of sand and a shallow runoff into the sea another ideal beach for children. The village is only a short walk away which has all the amenities you could want. I like the uncommercialised rural feel of the beach and the boys enjoyed watching the watersports. Located in North Wales in Anglesey near Holyhead postcode LL64 5JR.

READ MORE – Our trip to South Stack Lighthouse

READ MORE – 4 nights in Anglesey with kids

14. North Beach Tenby

Still, in Wales only this time in Pembrokeshire, Tenby beach lined with its high cliffs and pretty pastel houses is popular with families. Access to the beach is via a steep path with handrail, not suitable for buggies. But you are rewarded with views of the pastel houses. At one end there is a fort and several caves which is great for exploring. It is possible to climb up to the fort if you are feeling energetic.  Tenby itself is a lovely place to explore with a beautiful harbour and the opportunity to catch a boat trip. There are also two other beaches in Tenby Castle Beach and South Beach.  There are several NCP parking places in the town. Use postcode SA70 7DW to reach the multi-storey pay and display which is relatively central. 

15. Llantwit Major

I had to include Llantwit Major beach, although not particularly well known it is a hidden gem and where I spent the first three years of my life. Not far from Cardiff, it is unusual as the whole beach is made up of large grey pebbles. It is likely to be quiet as it is not well known but there is a cafe and a small amount of parking. With cliffs on either side when the tide is out there is ample space to explore although not many rock pools as such. It shows just how different the beaches can be around the UK. Located in South Wales, West of Cardiff use postcode CF61 1YX to reach the carpark. Do not be put off by the unnamed road.

17. Durdle Door 

A short walk (40 minutes) from Lulworth Cove you will find Durdle Door. It is probably one of th most photographed landmarks and so a deserves a mention in its own right. Although again this gets very busy. We have not visited since having the boys as it is a 20-minute walk from the carpark all downhill and steep and then a further 100 odd steps to the bottom. Going down is one thing but coming back up is another. Plus there is a deep shelf which means the sea isn’t really suitable for youngsters. However, if you have older children or teens it makes a great day out. Especially if walking from  Lulworth. The rock formations really do look like a door.   Use postcode BH20 5PU to reach the car park. 

18. Burgh Island

A recent discovery  Burgh Island can transport you right back to the 20s with its Art Deco-inspired hotel.  Which was at one time a film set for Agatha Christies Pirot Mystery Evil Under the Sun.  During low tide it is possible to walk across the beach to Burgh Island, but when the tide comes in. It comes in quickly and then the only option is the tractor. Just make sure you have the £2 each in change to ride.  Use postcode TQ7 4AZ for the nearest car park which is Bigbury On Sea.

READ MORE – Day trip to Burgh Island

19. Cromer 

A popular beach in Norfolk with arcades and a wonderful pier. Not only is the pier great for crabbing there is also a pub at the end of it. When the tide is out there is golden sand although if you walk along you will find shingle turning into large grey stones. Plenty to see and do including rock pools which are revealed in the low tide. There are plenty of amenities including places to eat and toilets. As well as shops selling all the possible beach paraphernalia that you could need. Parking is available on the grass on the cliffs, head to Runton Road car park, use postcode NR27 9AU. 

20. Southwold

Another traditional English seaside town Southwold in Suffolk. Again with a pier and lots of amusements to spend your pennies on. The golden sands are ideal for making sandcastles and there s a row of very pretty beach huts next to the pier. The boys enjoy the waves. There is a large car park which when busy is extended int the fields next door. When we visited we ate at the cafe on the pier which I can recommend. Southwold is located in the East Suffolk coast use postcode IP18 6LT for the car park.

READ MORE – Crabbing at Walberswick

21. Holkham

It is not just us that thinks Holkham beach is stunning it was awarded the Countryfile Magazine beach of the year in 2018. Part of a nature reserve it has wide white sandy beaches, beautiful rainbow beach huts on stilts and due to its size it can still feel empty even on the busiest day.  When tides are high a lagoon forms behind the beach which is great for kids to play in.  It is also close to Blakeney Point where you can go seal spotting. Located in North Norfolk use postcode NR23 1RG. 

22. West Mersea Beach 

I am not so sure if it is the beach or the beach huts that attract me to West Mersea. These beautiful pastel beach huts are all over social media.  Although to get a photo like the one below you will have to be really early or really late! The other attraction is that it is actually an island and is only reached by a causeway. So make sure you keep an eye on the tide times as it will disappear in the highest tides. Sand and shingle beach which is also good for crabbing. Located in Essex use postcode CO5 8DE.

23. Saunton Sands 

Another UNESCO biosphere Saunton Sands is very close to Croyde Bay in North Devon. It has a large car park close to the beach, but it does get busy during peak times. So best to get there early. You can find out more details about the car park including parking charges on the Saunton Sands website. We visited out of season so the minute coloured beach houses were being overwintered, but they look so pretty in pictures I have seen. The beach stretches for over a mile and because it is so vast it feels empty! It is a great beach to fly a kite or go for a surf.  Use postcode EX33 2NU for the car park.

24. Lowestoft 

Did you know that Lowestoft is Britain’s most easterly town? No? There is even an easterly point you can visit. Only it’s nothing special. Unlike the beach which has a blue flag, a row of cute beach huts, a prom with restaurants and bars and a water fountain which kids can run in and out of. It is a Victorian traditional beach resort at its best.  Located in Suffolk close to Great Yarmouth use postcode NR33 0DE. 

25. Shanklin

A beach that I use to visit as a child I took the boys back there in the Summer of 2021. It may not be the prettiest beach but it’s perfect for kids. Sand that turns into pebbles when the tide is out. The amenities around the beach area are really set up for tourists with a wonderful pirate mini golf, plenty of places to buy ice cream and various eateries and shops. There is a car park on the beachfront and also in the old town. All get busy so aim to get there early. The old town is definitely worth a wander, head up through Shanklin Chine. Located on the South-East corner of the Isle of Wight used postcode PO37 6BW.

READ MORE – Fabulous kid-friendly 5-day itinerary for the Isle of Wight

These are our 25 Best Beaches in the UK for Kids Have you visited any of these beaches or have I missed any that should be on this list – Best Beaches in the UK for Kids? Let me know in the comments below. As we continue to explore the United Kingdom we have plans to visit some other well-known beaches. Such as the isle of Harris in the outer Hebrides , Fistral beach in Cornwall and St. Mary on the Isles of Scilly. As well as Blackpool Sands, Weymouth Beach and Woolacombe Beach.

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