If you ever wanted to go on a holiday in the UK with the glistening ocean on your doorstep, you're probably wondering which coastal town to visit. From the golden sands of Whitstable in Kent to the dune-fringed beaches of Lyme Regis and the spectacular beaches of Luskentyre Sands, here are the most sustainable UK coastlines to visit.
1. Whitstable, Kent
Whitstable is a lovely English town with a coastline lined with multi-coloured beach huts. If you're craving the smell of salty sea breeze and the warmth of summer, Whitstable is the perfect destination. Famous for its beach, no visit to the town is complete without walking along its stunning seafront.
In summer, the beach can get crowded. If you prefer somewhere less busy, check out Tankerton beach. Enjoy a scenic stroll along the shore and sit in front of the colourful huts as you admire the views. You can also enjoy water sports, such as paddle boarding or kayaking.
2. Hastings, East Sussex
Hastings is a beautiful seaside town on the south coast of England famous for its cultural and sporting events and a top spot for weekend getaways and fun day trips. Stroll along the Old Town of Hastings, where you'll find traditional sheds used by fishermen to store nets.
Head to the Stade area, where you'll find the town's main beach. It's also home to the Hastings Fishermen's Museum, which has fascinating displays that tell the story of the town's maritime industry. The nearby Shipwreck Museum is also worth checking out, a fantastic museum featuring a variety of artefacts derived from shipwrecks, with some dating to early 1600.
3. Lyme Regis, Dorset
The attractive small town of Lyme Regis in Dorset boasts lots of fun things to do, including some of the UK's most gorgeous beaches. For a more convenient experience, visitors can take a UK coach trip to visit all these beaches in one trip.
Lyme's famous harbour wall, "The Cobb", is fun to explore. Surrounded by picturesque ocean views, the ancient sea wall dates back to the 13th century. As one of England's popular beach destinations, Lyme Regis boasts numerous beaches suitable for all visitors. Front Beach offers a traditional English seaside experience, while the neighbouring Sandy Beach is more suited to families with little kids.
4. Broad Haven and Little Haven, Pembrokeshire
Broad Haven and Little Haven are some of the most popular beaches along St Bride's Bay, offering an ideal location for a traditional English seaside holiday. The beach is a paradise for families with kids, featuring numerous rock pools at the north end of the beach. During low tide, you can enjoy a scenic walk from Broad Haven to Little Haven, past a tranquil bay known as the Settlands.
5. Luskentyre Sands, Isle of Harris
Luskentyre Sands is a lovely stretch of sandy beach on the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides. Despite its remote location, visiting Luskentyre Sands is worth it. It boasts spectacular views with pristine turquoise waters, ideal for swimming, kayaking, surfing, and sailing.
The remote beach is also a popular stop for hikers, nature lovers, and birders who can catch a glimpse of different bird species, including golden eagles.