Discover the Best Beaches in South East England
Planning a trip to the South East of England? Use our coastal guide to discover beautiful beaches in Kent, Sussex, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
Beaches on the South East Coast
The beautiful South East coast of England is one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations, full of family friendly resorts, home to the famous white cliffs of Dover and natural unspoilt beaches. Enjoy sandy beaches, rock pools, local seafood, water sports and more.
Great for a beach break as well as being easy to reach by train it is a popular choice for daytrippers from London. There is a wide variety of coastal attractions, annual events and seafront accommodation for all budgets.
Best sandy beaches on the South East Coast
Best for families & day trips from London
Kent Beaches
Explore more than 350 miles of coastline with popular seaside destinations including Whitstable, Broadstairs, Margate and Deal. Expect sandy bays, dramatic chalk cliffs, rock pools and traditional resorts. Standouts include Botany Bay, Viking Bay, Joss Bay and the unique landscape of Dungeness.
East Sussex Beaches
There’s a beach for everyone – from cosmopolitan Brighton Beach to the wide open shores of Camber Sands and the striking chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters. Perfect for families, walkers and anyone wanting a classic South Coast day out.
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West Sussex Beaches
From Worthing and Littlehampton to the excellent sandy beach at West Wittering, the West Sussex coast is family-friendly and great for watersports. Many stretches are easily reached for day trips.
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Hampshire Beaches
Discover beautiful, relatively unspoilt beaches ideal for wildlife, nature lovers and coastal walks. Quieter options with good access to the New Forest and Solent views.
Hayling Island Beaches
Family-friendly Hayling Island has sandy beaches plus plenty of attractions and watersports. A popular choice for active days out.
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Isle of Wight Beaches
Isle of Wight beaches range from family-friendly seaside resorts to the dramatic multi-coloured cliffs of Alum Bay and quieter sandy bays. Reachable by ferry for a proper island escape.
For a wonderful day out
The geology and geography of the coastline shifts between stretches of chalk cliffs, sandy beaches, shingle landscapes, and other varied coastal features as you travel between the counties of the southeast.
So whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, indulge in local seafood, or explore the natural beauty of the region, the South East coast has something for everyone.
From the famous chalk cliffs of Kent and East Sussex to the sandy beaches and rugged coastal landscapes of the Isle of Wight. This region provides iconic vistas like the White Cliffs of Dover and Seven Sisters cliffs contrasted with unique landscapes at Dungeness and Pegwell Bay.
While Hampshire borders the New Forest shores, West Sussex offers quintessential English seaside towns and beaches. No matter the county, visitors can experience the richly varied coastal splendor along the southeast shores.
Go Surfing in South East England
Learn to surf. Find surf schools all around the South East coast.
Walk the South East Coast
Coastal walking routes, from short circular trails to long-distance paths, covering the iconic white cliffs, beaches, nature reserves, harbors, and historic sites along the southeast coastline. Pass through the seaside towns, sandy beaches, colourful beach huts, and nature reserves. Some of the best walks in South East England are along the coast.
Cycling Routes along the coast
There are several coastal trails and routes suitable for cycling. These include circular routes hugging the coastline like the Viking Coastal Trail, and sections of longer walking trails that can accommodate cyclists.
Surfing
Learn to surf. Find surf schools all around the South East.
Kitesurfing
Find your nearest kitesurfing lessons for all levels.
Sailing
Discover sailing and the clubs on the South East Coast
Explore the South East coastline
What’s On along the Coast
Throughout the year there are a series of events and festivals taking place along the Coast. Find out What’s On from food festivals to cultural and sporting events.
UK Beach Guide
Go to the Beach Guide
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