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The 24 Best Sandy Beaches in the UK
The UK has stunning sandy beaches, offering unique charm and beauty for holidaygoers. Whilst shingle beaches are great, sometimes you only want to feel the soft, golden sand between your toes. That's why we will look at the best sandy beaches in the UK.
Whether it's the Isle of Wight's picturesque coastlines, Cornwall's rugged shores, or the scenic coves of Essex, these best sandy beaches in England provide the perfect escape for beach lovers. Are you looking to enjoy UK sandy beaches like Sandown Beach for families?
Or maybe you want unique white sand beaches like Kynance Cove? If you're seeking a tranquil retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this list of the best sandy beaches in the UK will guide you to everything you could want for your next dream trip.
The Top Sandy Beaches in the Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight is a gem renowned for its pristine sandy beaches and charming coastal towns. Here are some of the best sandy beaches in the Isle of Wight to visit on your holiday:
Sandown Beach, Sandown
Sandown Beach is one of the best sandy beaches in the UK for families, with a vast expanse of golden sand and gentle waves. Not just that, but its long promenade, lined with traditional beach huts and amusements, creates a quintessential British seaside experience.
Find out moreFor example, you could enjoy a session of sunbathing on the beach and then head over to Sandown Pier for some exciting amusements and family fun.
And, if you're staying at Whitecliff Bay Holiday Park, Sandown Beach is only around a 10-minute drive away!
Compton Bay, Newport
Nestled between towering chalk cliffs, Compton Bay is a breathtaking sandy beach with a more secluded and rugged setting. The dramatic landscape and fossil-rich shores attract nature enthusiasts and adventurers, mainly because the National Trust protects the area. Explore the rock pools, hike along the coastal path, or bask in the sun on the pristine sand.
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Ryde Beach, Ryde
Another long stretch of sandy shores is Ryde Beach, in the town of Ryde. It's a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying various water sports, so you can quickly fill your family day out with several activities at this prime spot. This is one of the best sandy beaches in the Isle of Wight, well-equipped with amenities such as cafes, shops, and beach huts.
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Shanklin Beach, Shanklin
Shanklin Beach is a picturesque sandy cove nestled beneath towering cliffs adorned with lush greenery, creating the perfect blend of beach delight and natural surroundings. Its tranquil waters and golden sands create a serene atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.
Find out moreAlso, the nearby Shanklin Chine, a deep coastal gorge, adds to the natural beauty of this location. And if you want some culture, you won't be far from Shanklin Old Village – and the walk is rather pretty!
Seagrove Beach, Seaview
Another of the best sandy beaches in the UK is Seagrove Beach, located in the charming village of Seaview. This hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat with soft, golden sands and gentle waves, making it an ideal spot for swimming and paddling.
Find out moreWith fewer crowds than other choices and a more tranquil ambience, Seagrove Beach is an excellent spot for those seeking a more secluded beach experience.
If you're staying at St Helens Coastal Resort, you can drive to this beach in only 10 minutes.
Brook Beach, Newport
Brook Beach is a sandy haven that boasts stunning views of the Solent and mainland England. Its gently sloping sands and relatively calm waters make it a popular spot for families with young adventurers. You’ll even find fossilised trees and the occasional dinosaur footprint here, so keep an eye out! And, be sure to bring some water shoes as it can get rocky in places.
Find out moreThe Dorset sandy beaches you must visit
Another location where you can find the best sandy beaches in the UK is Dorset. Renowned for its stunning Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and home to some of the best attractions, here are the top Dorset sandy beaches to add to your list:
Swanage Beach, Swanage
A beautiful sandy expanse can be found at Swanage Beach. This sandy shore stretches along the town's picturesque seafront, with traditional beach huts, amusements, and a lovely promenade to offer a classic British seaside experience. If you're looking for something extra, the beach is also great for water sports and boat trips to nearby destinations.
Find out moreIf you stay at Swanage Bay View Holiday Park, you can be as short as a 10-minute drive from the beach. Or for the brisk walkers among you, you can walk there in around 25 minutes.
Durdle Door Beach, West Lulworth
Durdle Door Beach is a natural wonder, boasting a magnificent limestone arch that juts into the sea. It is one of the most popular landmarks and one of the best sandy beaches in the UK. The sandy cove with crystal-clear waters is excellent for swimming and snorkelling. Be prepared for a bit of a hike to access this stunning location, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
Find out moreAnother reason why this is one of the best Dorset sandy beaches is because it's dog-friendly all year round. This way, every family member can enjoy the sandy beach in all its glory!
Bournemouth Beach, Bournemouth
The famous Bournemouth Beach is a prime example of why the best sandy beaches in the UK are so celebrated. With its seven miles of golden sands and a lively promenade, this beach offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking to relax and soak up the sun, enjoy water sports, or explore the nearby attractions, Bournemouth Beach is a must-visit destination.
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Sandbanks Beach, Poole
Another one of the most popular Dorset sandy beaches, known for its stunning blue waters and soft, golden sands, is Sandbanks Beach. This upscale beach destination offers a range of amenities, including beach cafes, water sports facilities, and various beach huts.
Find out moreIt's a perfect spot for a seaside getaway full of different activities, including the ability to hire volleyball nets and water sports equipment for the best beach experience.
Shell Bay – Studland
Shell Bay, located in the Studland village, offers visitors a more secluded and tranquil beach experience. Dunes back this sandy beach and boasts stunning views of Old Harry Rocks, a famous chalk formation. If you want to go for a relaxing swim or lay back and enjoy sunbathing, this beach has got you covered. You'll also have ample opportunity to explore the nearby nature reserve.
Find out morePlus, if you're staying at Swanage Bay View Holiday Park, Shell Bay is only around a 15-minute drive away.
Weymouth Beach
A vibrant and expansive sandy Dorset beach is Weymouth Beach, which stretches along the town's seafront. Its traditional beach huts, amusement parks, and variety of water sports activities make it a fantastic choice for families and adventure seekers alike. The beach is also a starting point for exploring the nearby Jurassic Coast, and you'll find plenty of coastal walking trails.
Find out moreSandy beaches in Essex that stand out
Another location we recommend you consider for the best sandy beaches in the UK is Essex. Choosing an Essex holiday destination will give you a variety of charming coastal towns and sandy beaches to explore. Here are some of the top sandy beaches in Essex to go and see:
Brightlingsea Beach, Essex
A hidden gem in Essex is Brightlingsea Beach, a peaceful and unspoiled sandy haven. Its long stretch of golden sand and gentle waves make it a perfect spot for relaxing on family outings. The beach is also a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, particularly windsurfing and sailing, due to the conditions surrounding the beach area.
Find out moreIn addition, if you're staying at Mersea Island Holiday Park, the beach is only a 45-minute drive away.
Walton-on-the-Naze
A traditional seaside town with one of the best sandy beaches in the UK, Walton-on-the-Naze is a must-visit on your Essex trip. The beach boasts a sandy beach, a pier, and a variety of amusements and attractions for all ages. Its vast, sandy shores are perfect for sunbathing, getting active with the family, and building fantastic sandcastles together.
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Dovercourt Bay Beach
Dovercourt Bay Beach is a charming sandy beach in Essex, located in Harwich. Its vast, flat sands and gentle waves make it an ideal spot for children who want an unforgettable beach experience. The beach is also a great starting point for exploring the nearby coastal trails and the picturesque town of Harwich, which is sure to complement your beach experience.
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Clacton-on-Sea beach
Clacton-on-Sea Beach (Clacton Beach) is a lively sandy beach in Essex. This vibrant beach stretches miles along the town's seafront, providing plenty of sandy space for all the beach activities you want to indulge in.
Find out moreIts traditional beach huts and a wide range of amenities make it a popular destination for families and beach lovers. The beach also hosts events and activities yearly, adding to its appeal.
Jaywick Beach
Jaywick Beach is another prime location for sandy beaches in Essex. It offers a more secluded and peaceful beach experience than livelier alternatives. Its sandy shores and grassy dunes create a serene atmosphere, perfect for those seeking tranquillity. The beach is also popular for bird watching and exploring the nearby nature reserves to experience the wonders of new species.
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Frinton-On-Sea Beach, Essex
In the charming town of Frinton-On-Sea, you'll find Frinton-On-Sea Beach, a pristine sandy beach that stretches far and wide. Its golden sands and gentle waves make it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying various water sports.
Find out moreThe beach is also well-equipped with amenities, including beach cafes and shops, so you can regularly take breaks from your beach activities and enjoy some tasty treats.
The best sandy beaches in Cornwall
On the South Coast, Cornwall is famous for its rugged coastline, quaint fishing villages, and some of the best sandy beaches in the UK. If you're planning on a Cornwall holiday, here are some of the best sandy beaches in Cornwall that should be on your radar:
Kynance Cove
Kynance Cove is a breathtaking sandy cove and one of the best white sand beaches located on the Lizard Peninsula. Its turquoise waters and unique white sand, surrounded by towering cliffs and serpentine rock formations, create a truly stunning natural setting. This idyllic spot is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the nearby caves and rock pools.
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Watergate Bay, Newquay
If you're visiting near the lively town of Newquay, then you'd be wise to explore Watergate Bay. This wide, sandy beach is filled with golden sand and rolling waves, making it a popular destination for surfing, kitesurfing, and other water sports. The beach also offers excellent facilities, including cafes, equipment rental shops, and surf schools.
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Crantock Beach, Crantock
Another of the best sandy beaches in Cornwall is Crantock Beach, located near the village of Crantock. Backed by towering dunes, this long, sandy shore creates a serene and picturesque setting. The beach is a great spot for sunbathing, beach walks, and exploring the nearby rock pools and caves, so make sure you can snap some great family photos at this natural location.
Find out moreIf you stay at Bude Holiday Resort, all this is around a 10-minute drive away.
Summerleaze, Bude
Summerleaze is a beautiful sandy beach located in the town of Bude. You'll be able to walk along the soft, golden sands and dip your feet in the gentle waves. This popular spot for families and water sports enthusiasts is ideal for your getaway. The beach also offers amenities, including beach cafes, shops, and a tidal pool for safe swimming.
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St Ives Bay, St Ives
St Ives Bay is a beautiful sandy beach that stretches along the charming town of St Ives. Its golden sands, clear waters, and picturesque backdrop of the town's iconic harbour make it a true gem. The beach is also a popular spot for surfing and other water sports.
Find out moreAnother reason this is one of the best sandy beaches in the UK is that it's a private three-mile-long beach belonging to St Ives Bay Holiday Park, so that you can enjoy pure seclusion and tranquillity.
Porthcurno beach
The rugged cliffs and golden sands of Porthcurno Beach are another must-see spot. Being one of the best sandy beaches in the UK, this secluded cove is nestled amidst the towering cliffs of Cornwall's Penwith Peninsula.
Find out moreIt's also among the best white sand beaches, with crystal-clear waters creating a stunning natural setting. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the nearby rock pools. The beach is also popular for outdoor theatre performances, adding to its unique charm.
The Best UK Sandy Beaches FAQs
To add some more useful information to our already packed guide, here are some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding the best sandy beaches in the UK:
 Where is the best sandy beach in the UK?
While there are many stunning sandy beaches in the UK, some of the most highly regarded include:Â
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Durdle Door Beach in Dorset
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Barafundle Bay in Pembrokeshire
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Kynance CoveÂ
However, the "best" beach is subjective and depends on personal preferences and desired amenities.
Does the UK have white sand beaches?
Yes, the UK is home to several beautiful white-sand beaches, although they are less common than the more prevalent golden-sand beaches.Â
Cornwall has some of the best white-sand beaches in the UK, such as Porthcurno Beach and Kynance Cove.
What is the sandiest beach in England?
One of the sandiest beaches in England is Bournemouth Beach in Dorset. With its seven-mile stretch of golden sand, it is often regarded as one of the best sandy beaches in the UK.
Your Sandy Beach Holiday in the UK Awaits!
From the picturesque shores of the Isle of Wight to the rugged Cornish coast, you're now ready to start exploring the incredible array of the best sandy beaches in the UK.Â
Whether you're seeking a family-friendly haven, a surfer's paradise, or a secluded escape, these breathtaking sandy havens offer something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Book today!
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Take a look at beaches by region:
Hampshire | Scotland | Isle of Wight | Dorset | North Wales | Yorkshire | Lincolnshire | Cornwall