The United Kingdom is a veritable treasure trove of pristine beaches, offering idyllic settings that cater to every possible beach-going preference. Whether you’re planning a weekend outing with your family or mapping out an extended holiday, the UK’s beaches offer something for everyone. From the golden coasts of England to the wild shores of Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, this guide will take you on a comprehensive tour of the best UK beaches for families and kids. We delve into the types of activities you can enjoy, the amenities on offer, and offer practical travel advice to make your beach trip as enjoyable as possible.
The Best of English Beaches
England is blessed with an array of beaches that are as diverse as they are stunning. Whether your ideal day involves basking in the sun or getting active with beach sports, England’s coastlines will not disappoint.
Bournemouth Beach, Dorset
One of England’s most family-friendly beaches is Bournemouth Beach in Dorset. With its soft sand and shallow waters, it’s the perfect playground for children of all ages. Beyond its natural beauty, Bournemouth Beach offers a plethora of activities. Whether you want to swim, snorkel, or just bask in the sun, this beach has got you covered. Amenities like lifeguards, clean restrooms, and an array of food options make it exceptionally visitor-friendly. If you’re considering when to visit, the summer months offer the best weather and atmosphere.
Saunton Sands, Devon
Another must-visit in England is Saunton Sands in Devon. This beach distinguishes itself with its expansive sandy areas, making it ideal for beach games like volleyball and frisbee. With lifeguards on duty and plenty of restrooms and food options, it ticks all the boxes for a great family day out. The ideal time to visit Saunton Sands is during the spring and summer months when the weather is most accommodating.
The Scottish Coastline: Remote and Breathtaking
The Scottish beaches are famed for their rugged beauty and isolation, offering a different kind of experience for those willing to venture a bit further.
West Sands, St Andrews
Nestled in the iconic setting of St Andrews, West Sands offers a family-friendly atmosphere. With soft sand and shallow waters, young children can play safely. Amenities such as lifeguards, restrooms, and food options make it a convenient choice for a family day out. The best time to explore this Scottish gem is during the summer months, when the sun graces its beautiful shoreline.
Luskentyre Beach, Outer Hebrides
For those seeking something truly special, Luskentyre Beach in the Outer Hebrides offers pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It is the perfect backdrop for beach games and activities, complemented by essential amenities like lifeguards, restrooms, and food options. Summer is the best season to visit, offering optimal conditions for enjoying its natural beauty.
Welsh Beaches: Beauty and Adventure
Wales boasts some of the UK’s most beautiful and under-the-radar beaches.
Rhossili Bay, Gower
Known for its stunning vistas and sandy expanses, Rhossili Bay in Gower is an ideal locale for beach games and activities. With lifeguards, restrooms, and food options available, you can easily spend an entire day soaking up the sun. The best time for a visit? The glorious summer months.
Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire
Barafundle Bay is another Welsh gem, featuring soft sand and shallow waters that make it perfect for young children. From swimming to snorkeling and sunbathing, this beach offers a range of activities. Summer is the prime season for a visit, with amenities like lifeguards, restrooms, and food options adding to its allure.
Northern Ireland’s Hidden Gems
Northern Ireland offers a unique blend of stunning beaches that cater to different tastes.
Ballyholme Beach, Bangor
Known for its expansive sandy areas and incredible views, Ballyholme Beach is ideal for a range of beach activities. Lifeguards, restrooms, and food options are available, making it a convenient destination. Summer is the recommended season for a visit.
Whiterocks Beach, Portrush
Whiterocks Beach offers soft sand and shallow waters, ideal for families with young children. With activities like swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, there’s something for everyone. Essential amenities like lifeguards, restrooms, and food options are also available.
Conclusion
The UK boasts a myriad of family-friendly beaches that cater to a variety of preferences and activities. Whether you’re drawn to the iconic English coastlines, the remote Scottish beaches, the stunning Welsh shores, or the diverse beaches of Northern Ireland, this guide has you covered. Armed with this information, you’re now well-equipped to choose the perfect beach for your next family adventure.