Considering the UK is surrounded by water, it really is no surprise that there are a ton of spectacular beaches to find along every coast. No matter where you are, whether it be Brighton, Cornwall, Wales, or Scotland, there is a breathtaking beach ready to be explored.
However, there is a handful that is a cut above the rest and could compete with the best beaches in the world.
Water Temperature
While the UK Summer can still be too cold for some, the seawater is very warm during this time. Depending on where you are, the water temperature can vary between 10 degrees Celsius and 20 degrees Celsius. If it’s a bit chilly, regular women’s swimwear or a wetsuit will be more than suitable.
Sand vs Rocks
Contrary to popular belief, not all British beaches are covered in rocks. While they are fairly common, there are just as many sand beaches around, especially in Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and the dozens of small islands surrounding the country.
Porthcurno Beach
Widely regarded as the most beautiful beach in the UK, Porthcurno looks like something out of a movie. Soft, sandy beach clear water, greenery, and spectacular views; the beach has almost everything you need for a perfect day by the water.
Located right near the famous town of Penzance, Porthcurno can get very busy during the Summertime, but it is still well worth a visit.
Holkham Beach
In Norfolk, Holkham is the epitome of simplistic beauty. With grass-covered sandbanks protecting you from the wind, the long, winding beach is perfect for a day out with the kids, a romantic sunset walk, and even a couple of hours of bodyboarding when the waves are right.
Once again, there is much in the area beside the beach, with the nearest bathrooms being a drive away. However, if you have a car, there is arguably no better place to spend the day in Norfolk.
Woolacombe Sands
Found in Devon, Woolacombe Sands is tricky to get to but well worth the effort. It is a 30-minute drive away from the nearest train station, but once you are there, you will feel like you have been transported to the most idyllic places on earth.
Luckily, there are several beautiful BnBs and nearby hotels you can stay in, which makes Woolacombe the perfect destination for a weekend away.
Bamburgh Beach
Not only does Bamburgh feature a glorious 1.5-mile-long, pristine strip of beach, but it is also located in the shadow of an 11th-century castle. One of the only beaches in the world to be overlooked by a castle, Bamburgh is worth visiting for that fact alone.
A fun fact about Bamburgh as well, it is where the very first lifeboat was created and tested. There are also several places to stay in the area, with many being within walking distance from the beach.
Rhossili Bay
Wales might not always have the best weather, but when the sun is shining, there are a few beaches you should head to. Rhossili Beach is quaint and simple, yet it looks like something you would find on a postcard.
What will surprise many is that Rhossili Beach has been named the best beach in Europe several times and is also consistently on the Top 10 Beaches in the World list.
Whitby Sands
While Whitby is already a very popular fishing village, Whitby Sands is the beach that brings tourists from around the country and the world. It has rock pools, outcrops, vegetation, and of course, beautiful water and waves.
Since it is found on the outskirts of a village, you have access to shops, restaurants, and cafes, meaning the day doesn’t have to end once you leave the beach.
Blackpool Sands
Another beach that would look like home off the coast of Greece or Italy is Blackpool Sands. Another beach that is isolated and difficult to get to if you don’t have a car, Blackpool Sands is everything you would want from a beach, and more.
Surrounded by high hills and greenery, it has crystal clear water that is perfect for swimming or other water-based sports and games. Depending on the tide, it also has a very large rock/seawater pool that is perfect for the kids or those who want a relaxing dip.
Morfa Nefyn Beach
If you drive a bit too fast, you may end up missing Morfa Nefyn completely. This small beach can be found on the North Coast of Wales and is nothing more than a small strip of land surrounded by a couple of buildings.
However, the small size and isolated nature of the beach adds to its beauty, and will leave you feeling like you have the entire thing to your own.
Isle of Arran
Finally, not necessarily a singular beach, by the Isle of Arran is often overlooked by many tourists but features some of the best beaches in all of Scotland. With many tiny villages dotted around the island and everything in driving distance, you can visit every beach in one day.
Some feature rock pools and winding beaches, while others have waves and stone jetty’s to relax on. There is a perfect mix of beaches depending on what you want to do.