Staycations are here to stay, and we couldn't be happier about it. Thankfully, you don’t need to head abroad to find beautiful white sands, blue seas and total relaxation. The UK has so many incredibly stunning beaches that the choices can be overwhelming, but we’ve done the hard work for you and rounded up six of our must-visit beaches - all you have to do is pick one.
Kynance Cove, Cornwall
Postcode: TR12 7PJ
No, it’s not the Mediterranean. With gorgeous turquoise blue waters and stunning coastal scenery, Kynance Cove makes its way to the top of every Cornish beach list, and with good reason. At low tide, you’ll be able to find a collection of coves and interconnected caves, all with Victorian-inspired names such as the Ladies Bathing Pool and The Drawing Room.
If you like a little more of an adventure, bring some hiking boots, as this is a coastal trail you won’t want to miss. Take the Mullion Cove Walk route for a hike that will take you through some beautiful parts of the Lizard coastline and around Predannack Head before heading down into Mullion Cove.
Good To Know: This small but beautiful beach almost disappears at high tide, so check the tide times before you trek down there! The beach isn’t manned by lifeguards and has strong currents, so stick to shallower water if you’re going for a dip.
Lunan Bay, Scotland
Postcode: DD11 5ST
This secluded Scottish beach is commonly known as the best in Angus. With a mile-long white sand beach and a large, free car park, it’s the perfect place to head if you want to get away from the crowds. Thanks to its rolling waves and flat beach, it’s a popular destination for surfers and horse-riders, so keep an eye out on your visit. If you’re after a more relaxed trip, take your time and go for a peaceful walk through the dunes and up to the ruin of the Red Castle, which was built to defend against Viking invaders! We’d recommend heading down to Lunan Bay after a storm, as you might be able to find agates and gemstones in the sand!
Good to know: If you’ve got your furry friend in tow, then not to worry, as this beach is dog-friendly all year round. It’s worth noting that there are no lifeguards at Lunan Bay.
Barafundle Bay, Wales
Postcode: SA71 5LS
This small bay in Pembrokeshire has been voted the best beach in Britain many times, and it’s easy to see why! Backed by sand dunes and pine trees that lead onto the golden sand and a crystal clear sea, we won’t blame you for spending the whole day here. Thanks to the bay, it’s fairly sheltered here, so on sunny days, get ready to bask in the warmth and imagine that you’re in Ibiza.
Good to know: This beach is only accessible by foot, so make sure you’re prepared to bring everything you take down onto the beach back up with you! It’s also dog-friendly all year round.
Porthcurno Beach, Cornwall
Postcode: TR19 6JX
Located to the far west of Cornwall, you’ll find Porthcurno Beach, a gorgeous oasis of inviting water and soft sand surrounded by high cliffs that provide shelter from the wilder elements. This is the ideal location for a family day out, with lifeguard presence from May to September and a stream that flows down one side, perfect for paddling. If you have the chance, we’d recommend visiting the spectacular Minack Theatre that sits on the cliff tops above Porthcurno, built in the 1920s by Rowena Wade and her gardener!
Good to know: There is a seasonal dog ban (10am - 6pm) in place from July to August. If you’re a fan of Poldark, you might recognise this beach as it was featured in the series!
Luskentyre Sands, Scotland
Postcode: HS3 3HL
One glance at this GORGEOUS beach, and you might think you’ve landed somewhere more tropical - until you step in the bracing water. But don’t let that stop you from enjoying a quick swim if you’re feeling brave. Located in the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides, Luskentyre is one of the largest and most beautiful beaches on the isle. With gorgeous panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean and the adjacent mountains, if your goal is to unplug and relax, this is the beach for you.
Good to know: You can reach this beach by bus! From Stornaway, take the bus to Tarbert (service W10), then change to the Tarbert to Leverburgh service (W10A), disembarking at Luskentyre Turn.
Rhossili Bay Beach, Wales
Postcode: SA3 1PP
Described as ‘The supermodel of British beaches’ by The Independent, it’s safe to say that this stunning Welsh beach is worth a visit. This fabulous spot boasts three miles of sandy shoreline and swell coming straight from the Atlantic, making it a top destination for surfers and sand-sculptors alike. If you’re up for a challenge, why not hike along the famous Worm’s Head, where you might be able to spot seals, dolphins and basking sharks! To reach this headland, you have to cross a causeway that’s only accessible for 2.5 hours on either side of low tide, so if you’re thinking of taking on this adventure, make sure you check the tide times and plan accordingly.
Good to know: Rhossili is accessible via stairs from Rhossili village, and it’s a bit of a way down, so, for those who look for a flatter route, you can take the route towards the Coastwatch centre and enjoy the gorg’ views over Rhossili and Worm’s Head.
While you’re trying to decide which beach to visit first, we’ve planned your outfits for you…
SHOP HOLIDAY OUTFITS