With summer on the horizon the call of the sea is becoming louder. A seaside holiday is a classic choice for a reason, with its opportunities for relaxation, exploration and adventure.
And with so many beautiful beaches, towering cliffs, hidden coves, and charming seaside towns spread along the coast of the UK we’re all spoilt for choice.
So, to help those planning coastal family getaways UK, here are our pick of four coastal spots that are the perfect locations for a sunny seaside holiday.
Cornwall
When it comes to the UK’s best seaside destinations you can’t make a list and not include Cornwall. The southwestern tip of Britain features hundreds of miles of gorgeous coastline, dotted with beaches, coves and bays aplenty.
For a taste of surf culture, Newquay is the place to be. Fistral Beach is known as the surfing capital of the UK for good reason, with its impressive surf conditions and brilliant blue waters. Even for beginners, it’s easy to find surf lessons on offer at beaches up and down the Cornish coast that account for all ages and abilities.
Epic beaches like the stretch of golden sands at Godrevy are also great for dog walking or simply building sandcastles and watching the tide come in. And in terms of seaside towns, places like St Ives and Penzance offer plenty to do and see.
Dorset
Also in the south, Dorset is home to the world-renowned Jurassic Coast, which features fossils and incredible geological formations. Naturally, fossil hunting is a popular pursuit for visitors to the coast here, with the chance to find the remains of ancient creatures on many of the local beaches.
Dinosaur enthusiasts can even enjoy guided fossil hunting activities, which sprinkle in plenty of fascinating information about the area and its paleontological importance.
Alternatively, you can head out on a cruise along the coastline to enjoy its wonders from an entirely different perspective. A stroll along portions of the South West Coast Path offers the opportunity to take in iconic sights like Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove, with exquisite stops at teahouses and seaside villages along the way.
Pembrokeshire
Moving across the border into Wales, the country’s coastline has beauty of its own to share. The waters around the Welsh coast are home to a variety of wildlife that you can try and spot, as well as impressive landmarks like the Green Bridge of Wales.
If you’re feeling up to the adventure then give coasteering a try, navigating along the rocky shoreline under the guidance of experienced instructors. It’s a thrilling way to experience the coast, with the chance to clamber up rock formations and jump into the waves for a swim.
For a chance to get a closer look at puffins and seals take a boat trip out to Ramsey Island, with the island serving as a haven for wildlife.
Northumberland
Another great location for a wildlife visit is in Northumberland, where the Farne Islands play host to thousands of seabirds and a colony of local seals. It’s easy to spend a day watching the birds fly and nest, although they can be quite noisy!
The Northumberland coastline also offers opportunities to explore classic castles, such as Bamburgh Castle — which looks out imposingly over the North Sea — or Lindisfarne Castle sitting on a tidal island. Active imaginations can find lots to enjoy here.
There are still many lovely beaches to relax on too, such as the golden sands of Alnmouth Beach and the rock pooling haven of Embleton Bay.
A coastal destination is a great choice for a UK family getaway, with the mix of sea, sun and sand sure to satisfy any kids!
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