The United Kingdom is one of the top beach destinations in the world – with over 2,000+ beaches along its 12,429 kilometers (7,723 miles) of varied coastline. The country's diverse shoreline features everything from rugged cliffs to sandy bays, making it a great place for both adventure seekers and families. Cornwall, Brighton, and Bournemouth are among the top beach destinations in the United Kingdom. Cornwall is home to Fistral Beach, known for its excellent surfing conditions and scenic coastal views. Brighton offers Brighton Beach, a lively pebble beach famous for its iconic pier and vibrant seaside atmosphere. Bournemouth features Bournemouth Beach, a long sandy stretch ideal for sunbathing and enjoying the traditional British seaside experience.
Other notable beaches in the United Kingdom include Rhossili Bay in Wales, recognized for its dramatic landscapes and wide sandy shore, and West Sands Beach in St. Andrews, Scotland, known for its historic golf course and stunning views of the North Sea.
The best time to visit the United Kingdom for beach activities is from June to September, when the weather is warmer and the coastal areas are most inviting for swimming, surfing, and exploring the scenic beauty of the shoreline.
EXPLORE TOP DESTINATIONS
Discover the complete list of beaches in Isle Of Wight. Plan your Isle Of Wight beach vacation with 100+ activities, photos, attractions, restaurants, and hotels.
Discover the complete list of beaches in Isles Of Scilly. Plan your Isles Of Scilly beach vacation with 100+ activities, photos, attractions, restaurants, and hotels.
Discover the complete list of beaches in Isle of Harris. Plan your Isle of Harris beach vacation with 100+ activities, photos, attractions, restaurants, and hotels.
Discover the complete list of beaches in Isle of Lewis. Plan your Isle of Lewis beach vacation with 100+ activities, photos, attractions, restaurants, and hotels.
Discover the complete list of beaches in Holy Island. Plan your Holy Island beach vacation with 100+ activities, photos, attractions, restaurants, and hotels.
Discover the complete list of beaches in Isle of North Uist. Plan your Isle of North Uist beach vacation with 100+ activities, photos, attractions, restaurants, and hotels.
Discover the complete list of beaches in Isle of Arran. Plan your Isle of Arran beach vacation with 100+ activities, photos, attractions, restaurants, and hotels.
Discover the complete list of beaches in Mersea Island. Plan your Mersea Island beach vacation with 100+ activities, photos, attractions, restaurants, and hotels.
Discover the complete list of beaches in Tresco. Plan your Tresco beach vacation with 100+ activities, photos, attractions, restaurants, and hotels.
Discover the complete list of beaches in Isle of Iona. Plan your Isle of Iona beach vacation with 100+ activities, photos, attractions, restaurants, and hotels.
EXPLORE TOP DESTINATIONS
England, United Kingdom offers 1,228+ beaches along its 11,073 miles (17,820 kilometers) of coastline. England has a number of beach options for every type of traveler. England is a popular travel destination with over 36,000,000 annual visitors in addition to its 56,600,000 residents. England is known for its historic landmarks, picturesque countryside, and vibrant cultural festivals.
Scotland, United Kingdom offers 643+ beaches along its 6,160 miles (9,910 kilometers) of coastline. Scotland has a number of beach options for every type of traveler. Scotland is a popular travel destination with over 13,000,000 annual visitors in addition to its 5,436,600 residents. Scotland is known for its stunning landscapes, historic castles, and vibrant cultural festivals.
Wales, United Kingdom offers 435+ beaches along its 1,680 miles (2,704 kilometers) of coastline. Wales has a number of beach options for every type of traveler. Wales is a popular travel destination with over 10,000,000 annual visitors in addition to its 3,107,500 residents. Wales is known for its stunning landscapes, historic castles, and vibrant cultural festivals.
Northern Ireland, United Kingdom offers 99+ beaches along its 200 miles (322 kilometers) of coastline. Northern Ireland has a number of beach options for every type of traveler. Northern Ireland is a popular travel destination with over 5,300,000 annual visitors in addition to its 1,900,000 residents. Northern Ireland is known for its Giant's Causeway, Titanic Belfast, and the Mourne Mountains.
Discover the complete list of beaches in Cymru. Plan your Cymru beach vacation with 100+ activities, photos, attractions, restaurants, and hotels.
EXPLORE BEACH DESTINATIONS
EXPERT ADVICE AND TIPS