16 Best Seaside Holidays In the UK

The UK has an amazing coastline to explore! There are loads of little villages, gorgeous bays and dramatic cliffs that make for some of the best seaside holidays in the UK.

Sometimes, it’s easy to think that we Brits have a raw deal when it comes to seaside spots.

It’s true, we don’t have the islands of the Maldives, warm Caribbean waters, or the crystal-clear Arctic seas (though it can feel like it at times).

That being said, it doesn’t mean we don’t have an amazing coastline that can rival most places across the world. In fact, I’d go as far as saying we have some amazing gems.

Now, a seaside holiday in the UK has lots of connotations with Victorian promenades, plenty of seagulls, some colourful deckchairs, and plenty of ’99 ice creams but there are so many more spots that don’t immediately spring to mind.

That’s why I wanted to show you some little haunts for the best seaside holidays in the UK.

Take a look at 16 of the best seaside holidays in the UK, below.

1.) Portrush, Northern Ireland

Perched in County Antrim, Portrush and Dunluce Castle is one of the prettiest seaside spots in Northern Ireland. Steeped in history and with a stunning (and rugged) coastline, it’s the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a gorgeous beach and a beautiful castle.

Rest assured, though, you’ll find the most amazing sandy beach at nearby Portrush on the way towards Dunluce Castle.

2.) Durdle Door, England

Nestled on the coastline of the Jurassic Coast, Durdle Door and the Man O’War Beach is a great place to visit for a relaxing day at the seaside. Make sure to walk the South West Coast Path, find some stunning coves (like Lulworth Cove) and walk west to Bat’s Head.

3.) Portmeirion, Wales

Now, don’t be fooled, this isn’t Italy! Portmeirion is a gorgeous Italian village that’s perched on the coastline of Wales and one of the best seaside holidays in the UK that I guarantee you’ll enjoy.

Once there, take a wander around the beautiful village, take in all that Italian heritage and even stay at the stunning Hotel Portmeirion that’s right on the waterfront.

If it’s a secluded beach you’re after, take a ramble slightly west from the town and you’ll come across the most unspoilt and little-known about beaches in Wales (if you check on Google Maps, you’ll see the spot exactly).

4.) Watergate Bay, England

Another Cornish gem, Watergate Bay is a stone’s throw from the larger town of Newquay but a world away in terms of how intimate it feels.

Head onto its gorgeous beach, stay at the Watergate Bay Hotel (which you’ll love) and gorge on all that seafood that’s served up fresh each day! It’s one of the best seaside spots around.

Plus, it’s a great spot for surfing too.

5.) St Michael’s Mount Island, England

I go on about St. Michael’s Mount a lot, I know – but it’s so amazing! If you’re in Cornwall and you’re looking for a little seaside break, you have to visit here.

Perched on the south coast, St. Michael’s Mount is a stunning (tidal) island that’s so gorgeous.

Best yet, on a sunny day (or with a wetsuit) you can pop into the sea at Long Rock Beach. It’s a matter of minutes from St. Michael’s Mount and a great way to spend a lazy weekend.

6.) Neist Point, Scotland

Perched on the Isle of Skye, off the west coast of Scotland, Neist Point is a great place to visit on your trip around the Highlands.

Pop over to the Isle of Skye, walk the many coastal paths and stop off at Walrus Rock if you’re walking a longer route.

Though you won’t find a beach right next to Neist Point, you will find lots of rugged coastlines that you can enjoy. If you’re still hankering for a little beach time, pop over to Varkasaig Beach (with a picnic in hand).

7.) Robin Hood’s Bay, England

Nestled on the coastline of Yorkshire, Robin Hood’s Bay is a stunning little village that’s pretty close to the nearby Whitby (and its famous abbey). Now, the village itself might not strike you straight off as a seaside hotspot – but trust me when I say it is. The beach is gorgeous.

Plus, the village, with all its little fishing cottages, is so beautiful to explore, and they have a substantial number of local watering holes to grab a shandy in!

This whole area is known for its seafood too, so make sure you gorge on as much as you can. You’ll be spoilt for choice.

8.) Llanddwyn Island, Wales

Just off the west coast of Anglesey (an island in Wales), Llanddwyn Island is a gorgeous spot to see. Technically, an island (Llanddwyn) just off an island (Anglesey) that’s just off an island (Great Britain) – it’s a spot that’s easily reached.

Once there, make sure to visit the lighthouse and enjoy the gorgeous sands of Llanddwyn Bay too.

9.) Seven Sisters, England

On the south coast of England, the Seven Sisters stand proudly in between Seaford and Eastbourne and are perfect to start one of your best seaside holidays in the UK.

Head along the cliff walk, though, as always treat the cliffs with the respect they deserve and don’t get too close to the