Best Beaches in the United Kingdom

This beach is a regal masterpiece, with dramatic, green cliffs and stunning, turquoise sea. The majestic landscape definitely gives this beach the "wow factor," but its beautiful waters are a tease -- the ocean is unbearably cold, so there are no activities out on the water. The beach is simply a place to sit back and take it all in.

While the waters may not be the best way to experience Luskentyre Beach, there are plenty of things to keep you occupied on land. The sand dunes on Taransay are a unique place to relax and admire Luskentyre Beach, and are famous for being featured in BBC's Castaway. A great way to appreciate the island of Harris's beauty is to cycle the three-mile path just off the beach. You'll want to take many stops along your ride to take just one more picture, as the views are simply spectacular. The mountains of North Harris sit in the distance from Luskentyre Beach, adding to the scenery and offering amazing hiking trails.

There are only a few farmhouses surrounding the area, leaving you to pure serenity. The jaw-dropping views are what earned Luskentyre Beach it spot on the Top 100 List, and it's those very views that will have you ranking the beach as one of your personal favorites once you've experienced its beauty for yourself.

Fistral Beach is the perfect family beach offering an abundance of activities and facilities including equipment rentals, instructors, restaurants, and cafes. Fistral Beach is also every surfer's dream, as it is one of the most consistent beaches to surf in all of Europe. Major UK surf competitions take place here, such as the Boardmasters, Quicksilver Skins, BUSA Championships, and the UK Pro Surf Tour. Even if you're a beginner, this beach is a great place to start and the Fistral Beach Surf School offers lessons and rentals! If surfing isn't your strong suit, feel free to take in the sun or stop by some of the restaurants or cafes. The Fistral Beach Bar is a great spot to grab a drink or check out Sea Spray for some coffee and sea views. The abundance of amenities and consistent waves for surfing make Fistral Beach a spot you can't miss when you're in England!

Stretching over five miles long with golden sands, Filey Beach is an ideal beachside destination for anyone trying to escape the noise. Filey Beach is less commercialized than other beaches in the area, and it makes itself open to activities such as fishing, horse riding, and kite flying. Chances are you'll see local fishermen throwing their nets from fishing boats. In addition to the activities on the sand, people who visit the beach often sail or surf. If you're feeling hungry or thirsty, make sure to pack a snack since there aren't restaurants near the beach. If you forget your snack, you can always stop by a Papa John's or Starbucks while driving towards the beach. With the quiet, tranquil environment away from all the noise and commercialization, Filey Beach offers an experience few other beaches can.

Watergate Bay is very popular with families, as it always has a lifeguard on duty. The beach, due to its location, gets swell from the Atlantic and has large waves, making it very popular with surfers. Families with small children can still enjoy the beach's beauty, but the strong waves are more appropriate for surfers than swimmers.

Porthcurno Beach is in the western part of Cornwall, a peninsula in the south-west region on England. Aquamarine water, some of the clearest in the United Kingdom, laps up its white sands to create a stunning contrast. The beach itself is surrounded by towering cliffs. The renowned Minack Theatre, an architectural wonder perched on the cliffs, has been the host to a number of famous actors and plays over the course of its 80-year history. For those interested in a 30-minute walk, you'll want to visit the majestic 80-ton granite Logan Rock. History buffs will love exploring the Porthcurno Telegraph Museum and learn about the beach's pivotal role in telecommunication in the United Kingdom and during both world wars. Tourists can spot the Tater Du Lighthouse from land or sea. If you're hungry, stumble into the Porthcurno Beach Cafe or Cable Station Inn Cornwall for golden and crispy fish and chips. Travelers can bunk up at the Seaview House or any other cozy bed-and-breakfast cottage with beach views.