Who says you need to jet off to the tropics for some sandy bliss? 🌊
Our little island is packed with stunning coastline and we’re here to spill the beans on some of its best-kept secrets. Forget the crowded beaches and prepare to discover 8 beautiful hidden beaches in the UK that will make you feel like you’ve stumbled upon your own private paradise.
So grab your bucket and spade (or just a good book) and let’s hit the shore!
1. Nanjizal Beach
Cornwall
If you’re looking for a serene beach off the beaten track, Nanjizal Beach is definitely worth the journey. This hidden beach is all about raw beauty and tranquillity, with stunning crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs. It’s the perfect place to relax, explore the rock pools or just soak up the incredible scenery.
One of the highlights of Nanjizal Beach is undoubtedly the mesmerising sea cave known as the ‘Song of the Sea.’ This stunning natural archway, often gracing Instagram feeds, is a little less poetically named by locals: Zawn Pyg, or ‘pointed chasm.’ To reach this secluded spot, you’ll need to lace up your walking boots and follow the 30-minute coastal path from Porthgwarra, Land’s End. Then make your way down the wooden stepped entrance to discover Nanjizal Beach.
Just a heads up! Nanjizal Beach doesn’t have any facilities, so make sure to pack everything you need, including water, snacks and good footwear. It’s also a good idea to check the tide times before you go, as the beach can disappear completely at high tide.
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2. Bembridge Beach
Isle of Wight
Looking for a quieter spot to enjoy the sea air on the Isle of Wight? Bembridge Beach might just be your perfect escape. This charming little beach is often overlooked by tourists, making it a true hidden gem. With its pebbled shore, gentle waves and epic sunset views, it’s a great place to relax and unwind.
This little island gem is hidden in plain sight behind Bembridge’s quaint cottages. Down the RNLI Bembridge Lifeboat Station end of the beach, you’ll find parking, toilet facilities and even a café. While the village of Bembridge itself offers convenience shops, bakeries and coffee shops to pick up a beachside treat.
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3. Barricane Beach
Devon
Barricane Beach in Devon is your ticket to paradise this summer. Tucked away in a sheltered cove, this hidden beach is often overlooked by its busier neighbour, Woolacombe Beach. But don’t be fooled! Barricane has a charm all its own.
One of the biggest highlights of Barricane Beach is its treasure trove of shells. Exotic beauties from across the Atlantic have washed up on its shores, thanks to the Gulf Stream. Plus, Barricane Beach even welcomes furry friends for a beach day! Grab a parking space from the car park at Woolacombe Beach, pack a snack and set off on the short walk to this gorgeous beach.
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4. Spurn Point
East Yorkshire
Discover the unique peninsula of Spurn Point that stretches out into the North Sea. This wild and rugged coastline is a far cry from your typical seaside adventure, with vast stretches of sand, rolling dunes and a sense of freedom that’s hard to beat.
This hidden beach in the north of England is a haven for wildlife lovers, with seals, birds and other creatures calling this special habitat home. Keep your eyes peeled as you explore the ever-changing landscape and don’t forget to visit the Spurn Discovery Centre for a bite to eat and learn more about the local area.
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5. Man O’War Beach – Dorset
Dorset
Looking for a quieter spot on the outstanding Jurassic Coast? Man O’ War Beach is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. Nestled next to the famous Durdle Door, this cove offers a peaceful escape from the crowds.
While Man O’ War Beach might not have the same iconic rock formations as its iconic neighbour but it boasts its own unique charm. The sheltered bay is ideal for swimming, snorkelling and simply soaking up the sun. Just remember, there are no facilities here, so come prepared with everything you need for a day at the beach.
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6. Musselwick Beach – Pembrokeshire
Pembrokeshire
Musselwick Beach in Pembrokeshire is perfect for a peaceful escape. Revealed only at low tide (check out tide times here!) Musselwick Beach is a stunning sandy bay that is only accessible by footpath – but trust us, it’s worth the effort! To reach this secluded paradise, you’ll need to join the Pembrokeshire Coast Path at St Brides and continue south towards Martins Haven or follow a footpath from Marloes across fields and descend some steps carved into the cliff. Once you’re there, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful, sheltered beach backed by dramatic cliffs.
Just a heads up! Please bear in mind, Musselwick Beach is a true escape, so there are no facilities on site. Pack everything you need for a perfect day by the sea, including water, snacks, and sun protection.
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7. Kingsgate Bay
Kent
Imagine a sandy cove nestled by towering white cliffs, with secret sea caves beckoning you to explore. That’s Kingsgate Bay! This hidden gem on the Kent coast feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of Margate and Ramsgate. Kingsgate Bay is the kind of place where you can spend hours exploring rock pools, building sandcastles or exploring the coastline.
With its dramatic cliffs and secluded atmosphere, Kingsgate Bay is perfect for a romantic escape or a family day out. So pack your picnic, grab a blanket and those beach essentials for an intimate day out by the sea.
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8. Achmelvich Bay
Scottish Highlands
Achmelvich Bay is one of those beaches that takes your breath away. With extraordinary stretches of pristine white sand bordered by towering mountains and crystal-clear turquoise waters, this is the Scottish Highlands at its finest. It’s no wonder Achmelvich Beach is often hailed as one of the UK’s most beautiful beaches.
Getting to this Scottish gem does involve a bit of an adventure. Achmelvich Bay is located on the northwest coast of Scotland, near the village of Lochinver. You’ll need to drive along a single-track road just off the B869, but trust us, the journey is well worth it. Once you pass the campsite, keep an eye out for a small sign pointing you towards the beach car park on your right.
Just a heads up! While there are no facilities at Achmelvich Beach itself, the nearby village of Lochinver offers everything you could need, including restaurants, convenience shops and even a tourist information centre.
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