Looking for the best spots to enjoy a seaside getaway in the UK? I’ve put together a list of top coastal resorts for a perfect beach holiday.
From classic seaside towns to luxurious resort stays, the UK has a variety of options to suit different tastes and budgets.
Whether you’re after a fun family trip or a romantic escape, there’s something for everyone on this list.
1. Holiday Resort Unity, Brean, Somerset
Holiday Resort Unity in Brean, Somerset, is a fantastic family-friendly destination. With a range of accommodations from cozy caravans to luxurious lodges, it caters to various preferences and budgets.
The resort offers a plethora of activities. I particularly enjoyed the Splash Waterpark, which features exciting slides and a relaxing lazy river. For those who prefer staying dry, there are numerous on-site facilities, including a golf course, fishing lakes, and a funfair.
The beach at Brean is just a short walk away. It’s one of the longest stretches of sand in Europe, perfect for building sandcastles or enjoying a leisurely walk along the shore.
Dining options at Holiday Resort Unity are excellent. The on-site restaurants serve a variety of dishes, from traditional fish and chips to international cuisine. I found the food to be tasty and reasonably priced.
In the evenings, entertainment options abound. There are live shows, bingo, and even a cinema. The whole family can enjoy a night out without leaving the resort.
The location in Somerset is ideal for exploring nearby attractions. The famous Cheddar Gorge and Wookey Hole caves are just a short drive away, offering exciting day trips for all ages.
2. The Scarlet Hotel, Cornwall
The Scarlet Hotel in Cornwall is a luxurious, eco-friendly resort. Perched on a clifftop, it offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The design is modern and stylish, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
I enjoyed the hotel’s commitment to sustainability. Their eco-friendly practices impressed me. Solar panels, green roofs, and natural materials are used throughout the property.
The rooms are spacious and comfortable. Every room has a private balcony or terrace. Most of them have sea views, which I found breathtaking. The decor is calming and earthy, with plenty of natural light.
The Scarlet’s spa is a highlight. It features an indoor pool, an outdoor hot tub, and various treatments. The spa uses natural, organic products. I found the treatments relaxing and rejuvenating.
Dining at the Scarlet is a delightful experience. The hotel’s restaurant serves locally sourced, seasonal dishes. The menu includes fresh seafood, which I highly recommend. The views from the restaurant are lovely, making every meal special.
The beach is just a short walk away. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing day by the sea. I enjoyed walking along the shore and taking in the fresh air. The beach is clean and not too crowded.
The Scarlet Hotel is a great choice for anyone looking to combine luxury with sustainability.
3. The Headland Hotel & Spa, Newquay
The Headland Hotel & Spa in Newquay is a stunning location. It sits on a cliff overlooking Fistral Beach. The views of the Atlantic Ocean are breathtaking.
I love how it combines old-world charm with modern luxury. The hotel is housed in a grand Victorian building. Inside, the décor is elegant and contemporary.
The spa is a highlight. It offers a range of treatments. There are also indoor and outdoor pools. After a day at the beach, it’s the perfect place to relax.
Dining at The Headland is a treat. The restaurants serve fresh, local seafood. You can enjoy your meal while looking at the sea. The atmosphere is both relaxed and refined.
Staying at The Headland gives me easy access to Fistral Beach. It’s famous for surfing. There are also lots of coastal walks nearby. It’s a great base for exploring Cornwall.
The hotel is also family-friendly. There are activities for children, making it a good choice for a family holiday. The staff are attentive and friendly, making sure everyone feels welcome.
4. The Grand Hotel, Eastbourne
The Grand Hotel in Eastbourne is famous for its elegance and charm. Overlooking the seafront, the hotel offers stunning views of the coastline. It’s within walking distance to the beach, making it a perfect spot for a seaside holiday.
The hotel features spacious rooms with classic decor. Each room is equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The Grand Hotel is also known for its excellent service.
Dining at The Grand Hotel is a treat. The hotel has multiple restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience. From fine dining to casual meals, there is something for everyone.
Guests can relax in the luxurious spa. The spa offers various treatments and has a pool, sauna, and steam room. It’s a great way to unwind after a day at the beach.
The hotel also has several event spaces. These are ideal for weddings, meetings, and other gatherings. The beautiful surroundings and attentive staff make any event special.
5. Bedruthan Hotel & Spa, Mawgan Porth
I recently visited Bedruthan Hotel & Spa in Mawgan Porth. This resort stands out with its stunning cliff-top views. The beach below is just a short walk away, making it easy to enjoy the sea.
The hotel itself is modern and comfortable. My room had a sea view, which was a treat. The decor was simple yet stylish. I found the bed very comfortable and the bathroom clean and spacious.
The spa was a highlight. With various treatments available, it was perfect for relaxation. I enjoyed a massage that left me feeling refreshed.
Dining at Bedruthan was excellent. The on-site restaurants serve delicious meals made with local ingredients. I particularly enjoyed the seafood dishes.
Families will find plenty to do here. There are activities for children, including a kid’s club and play areas. This makes it a great spot for a family holiday.
For those seeking adventure, there are many outdoor activities on offer. I tried my hand at surfing and found the instructors to be very helpful. The surrounding area also offers beautiful walking trails.
6. Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate, St. Ives
I find Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate in St. Ives a lovely spot for a beach holiday. The hotel sits on its own private beach, which makes it feel special. The golden sands are perfect for sunbathing and the waters are clear and calm.
The rooms at Carbis Bay are comfortable and many offer stunning sea views. There’s a spa where I can unwind after a day on the beach. The treatments are top-notch, leaving me relaxed and refreshed.
Dining here is a delight. The hotel has several restaurants, serving fresh local seafood and other delicious dishes. I enjoy having a meal while overlooking the bay.
For those who like water sports, there are plenty of activities to try. Kayaking and paddleboarding are available, which add a bit of adventure to my stay. There’s also a heated outdoor pool if I prefer to swim in a pool rather than the sea.
Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate is also close to St. Ives town centre. I like exploring the charming shops and galleries, and it’s only a short walk or shuttle ride away. This combination of relaxation and activity makes it a great choice for a beach holiday in the UK.
7. The Nare Hotel, Cornwall
I really enjoy staying at The Nare Hotel in Cornwall. It’s located right on the Roseland Peninsula, with stunning views of the sea. The beach is just a short walk away, making it an excellent spot for a beach holiday.
The rooms are spacious and well-decorated. Each one has a unique style. My favourite part is the private balconies. They offer a perfect view of the beach and sea.
The restaurant at The Nare serves delicious meals. Fresh seafood is a highlight, and they also have a great selection of wines. I always find the food to be of high quality.
For relaxation, there’s a spa offering various treatments. I like the heated pool and the hot tub. Both are great for winding down after a day at the beach.
For those who love activities, The Nare offers sailing, tennis, and even croquet. I find these activities both fun and engaging.
8. Cliff House Hotel, Southbourne
Cliff House Hotel in Southbourne is a splendid choice for a beach holiday. Its location on the southern coast of England is ideal for anyone wanting to enjoy the sea.
The hotel is right by the beach, so you can walk to the shore in just a few minutes. The views of the ocean are breathtaking, and many rooms offer a great sight of the waves.
Cliff House combines modern facilities with the charm of a historic building. The rooms are stylishly furnished and quite comfortable. Each room has amenities like free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs.
The on-site restaurant serves delicious meals made from local ingredients. I particularly enjoyed the fresh seafood dishes. There’s also a cosy bar where you can relax with a drink in the evening.
For those who like to stay active, the hotel offers easy access to water sports and coastal walks. Southbourne’s centre is nearby, with shops and cafes that add to the experience.
Parking is available, making it convenient if you’re driving. The staff were friendly and helpful, always ready to assist with any questions or needs.
9. Saunton Sands Hotel, Devon
Saunton Sands Hotel is a gem on Devon’s coastline. The hotel’s Art Deco style stands out and creates a unique atmosphere. I love how it overlooks the long, sandy Saunton Beach, offering stunning views of the sea.
The rooms are spacious and comfortable. Many of them come with sea views and private balconies. I always enjoy waking up to the sound of the waves.
The hotel’s facilities are excellent. There’s an indoor and outdoor pool, a spa, and a gym. When I want to relax, the spa treatments are perfect.
For dining, the hotel has a classy restaurant that serves locally sourced food. The beach café is also a great spot for a casual meal. I appreciate the variety in their menu.
Families will find the hotel very accommodating. There’s a kids’ club and plenty of activities for children. I often see families enjoying the beach together.
Saunton Sands Hotel is also great for golf enthusiasts. It’s next to a championship course, which offers a challenge even for experienced players. The surrounding area has trails and beautiful scenery for walks and hikes.
10. The Gallivant, Camber Sands
The Gallivant in Camber Sands is a great choice for a relaxing beach holiday. The resort is right near the sand dunes, perfect for beach lovers. The easy access to the beach makes it convenient for anyone wanting to enjoy the sea and sun.
The rooms are comfortable and stylish, with relaxing views of the surrounding area. The design makes visitors feel at home while providing a luxurious touch.
The on-site restaurant serves delicious local food. The ingredients are fresh and the dishes are tasty. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal without leaving the hotel.
The spa offers a range of treatments to help guests unwind. I enjoyed the calming atmosphere and professional service. Whether it’s a massage or a facial, the spa has something for everyone.
For those who like activities, there are plenty of options. From yoga sessions to beach walks, there is always something to do. It’s an excellent place for both relaxation and fun.
Camber Sands itself is a beautiful area with wide sandy beaches. The location of The Gallivant makes it easy to explore the local scenery.
Best Time to Visit
Choosing the best time to visit coastal resorts in the UK depends on the weather and seasonal highlights. Both factors play a crucial role in making your beach holiday enjoyable.
Seasonal Highlights
Each season brings different experiences. Spring and autumn are great for quieter visits with fewer crowds. During these times, you might find more peace and still enjoy good weather.
For those who prefer a lively atmosphere, the summer months of June to August are ideal. Many resorts offer festivals, events, and activities.
Winter is less busy and more affordable, though colder, ideal for a peaceful retreat.
In summer, expect more daylight and warm temperatures, perfect for beach activities. Autumn showcases stunning coastal landscapes with vibrant foliage. Keep an eye out for local events celebrating the changing seasons.
Weather Considerations
Weather plays a big role in planning a beach holiday. Summer, from June to August, brings the warmest temperatures, ranging from 18°C to 25°C. This is ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
Spring and autumn have milder weather, with temperatures around 12°C to 18°C. These seasons can be unpredictable, with a mix of sunny and rainy days.
Winter months are colder, averaging 5°C to 7°C, and less ideal for beach activities. However, winter walks along the coast can be refreshing. If you plan to visit during these months, be prepared for rain and pack appropriately.
Activities and Attractions
Coastal resorts in the UK offer a variety of activities and attractions. From thrilling water sports to immersive cultural festivals, there’s something for everyone.
Water Sports and Activities
Many resorts provide a range of water sports. At Newquay in Cornwall, surfing is popular due to its excellent waves. Meanwhile, you can try coasteering at the same location, which involves cliff jumping and climbing.
For those who prefer a calmer experience, kayaking along the coastal waters offers stunning views and a chance to explore hidden coves.
Sailing and windsurfing are also common, with numerous spots offering lessons for beginners.
Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy deep-sea fishing trips to catch local species. Many coastal towns also have seaside piers where one can fish or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
Local Culture and Festivals
Coastal resorts host various cultural events and festivals. In Whitby, the Goth Festival celebrates Goth culture with music, fashion, and art. Meanwhile, Brighton’s Pride Festival is a colourful celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, featuring parades and performances.
Local markets are another highlight. St Ives has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries and craft markets showcasing local talent. During the summer, many towns hold food festivals, where local seafood and traditional dishes are featured.
Music lovers can attend beach concerts, often held during warm months. The Isle of Wight Festival is a notable event, attracting music fans from all over.
Travel and Accommodation Tips
When planning a beach holiday in the UK, it’s important to book early and consider the best transportation options for your trip.
Booking Guide
I always recommend booking your accommodation as early as possible. Popular coastal resorts fill up quickly, especially during the summer months.
Look for special deals on hotel websites or consider booking through trusted travel agents.
Make sure you check reviews on websites like TripAdvisor. Look for clean, comfortable rooms and good customer service. If you’re travelling with family, search for family-friendly resorts.
If you prefer self-catering, holiday cottages and apartments might be a good option. Many offer weekly rates and have kitchens where you can prepare your own meals.
Finally, always check the cancellation policy before you book. Plans can change, and you don’t want to lose money if you need to cancel or change your dates.
Transportation Options
Reaching your coastal resort in the UK can be easy if you plan your travel well.
I find that trains are a great option, as many resorts have nearby stations. Book your train tickets in advance for the best prices.
Coach services can also be a budget-friendly choice.
Companies like National Express offer routes to many seaside towns.
If you prefer driving, make sure to check parking availability at your accommodation.
Some resorts charge for parking, while others offer free spaces or require permits.
Car hire might be another option if you’re travelling from far away or prefer not to use your own vehicle.
Look for car rental deals from companies like Hertz or Enterprise.
