Discover England's Best Beaches

England's coastline offers a stunning array of beaches, from dramatic cliffs and golden sands to tranquil bays and historic landmarks. Whether you're a family, a solo traveler, or a couple seeking a romantic spot, England's beaches provide a diverse range of vacation opportunities complete with hotels, restaurants, and water sports facilities.

Some of England's finest beaches are hidden gems, perfect for those seeking solitude, while others are conveniently located near vibrant towns and cities, offering easy access to amenities and entertainment.

Explore our guide to the top beaches in England for your next seaside getaway.

1. Bournemouth Beach

Bournemouth Beach spans over 11 miles and is a hub of entertainment with theaters, cafes, and the iconic Bournemouth Pier. It's a family favorite with activities like ziplining and the Bournemouth Oceanarium. Surfers enjoy the waters off-season, and the beach's proximity to London makes it a popular weekend destination.

2. Fistral Beach

As the UK's top surfing destination, Fistral Beach in Newquay is vibrant in summer with trendy shops and eateries like Rick Stein's. It hosts the UK Pro Surf Tour and offers lessons for all levels at Fistral Beach Surf School. The beach is also known for the Boardmasters Festival.

3. St. Brélade's Bay Beach

St. Brélade's Bay is a family-friendly beach with soft sand and safe swimming. The palm-lined esplanade features cafes and shops, and the beach is accessible for those with mobility issues thanks to BeachAbility's adapted wheelchairs.

4. Weymouth Beach

Weymouth Beach, favored by King George III, is a traditional seaside resort with a Blue Flag award for cleanliness. It offers old-fashioned attractions like donkey rides and sandcastle competitions, as well as a theater and entertainment complex.

5. Brighton Beach

Brighton's lively beachfront features the iconic Brighton Pier, water sports, and cultural attractions like the British Airways i360 and Sea Life Brighton. The pebbly beach is also close to Cliff Beach, Britain's first naturist beach.

6. Bigbury-on-Sea

Bigbury-on-Sea is a picturesque beach in South Devon with rock pools and a causeway to Burgh Island. It's a quiet spot for families and couples, offering surfing and windsurfing opportunities.

7. Blackpool Beach

Blackpool Beach is known for its three piers, the Blackpool Tower, and the annual Blackpool Illuminations. The Blue Flag beach offers a range of amenities and attractions, including the Blackpool Pleasure Beach amusement park.

8. Pelistry Bay Beach

Pelistry Bay on the Isles of Scilly is a secluded beach ideal for couples. The small islands offer a tranquil escape with natural beauty and unique attractions like dinosaur footprint tours.

9. Porthcurno Beach

Porthcurno Beach, near Lands End, is semi-isolated with stunning scenery and the Minack Theatre, an open-air venue with performances against a coastal backdrop.

10. Woolacombe Beach

Woolacombe Beach in Devon is a long stretch of golden sand popular for sunbathing, surfing, and family activities. It's also dog-friendly, with certain restrictions during peak season.

11. Compton Bay Beach

Compton Bay Beach on the Isle of Wight is a natural beach with contrasting sands and cliffs. It's a hotspot for fossil hunters and offers safe paddling and surfing opportunities.

12. Saunton Sands Beach

Saunton Sands Beach in Devon is family-friendly with three miles of sand, surfing, and a backdrop of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It has facilities like beach chair rentals and a restaurant.

13. Tankerton Beach

Tankerton Beach near London offers a shingled shore, calm waters, and proximity to Whitstable's shops and restaurants. It features Tankerton Slopes for panoramic views.

14. Bamburgh Beach

Bamburgh Beach in Northumberland is known for its castle and is a prime location for surfing, kitesurfing, and rock pooling. It offers scenic walks and horseback riding opportunities.

15. West Wittering Beach

West Wittering Beach near Chichester is a Blue Flag beach within a Site of Special Scientific Interest. It's popular for water sports and features a café and nature trails.

16. Wells-Next-the-Sea Beach

Wells-next-the-Sea in Norfolk is a golden sandy beach with colorful huts, dunes, and a café. It's dog-friendly and offers a range of amenities for a comfortable day out.

Explore More of England and the UK: Discover top attractions and beautiful photography spots in England, and find the best places to visit in the UK. If you're in London, check out the top tourist attractions in the city.