Dramatic cliffs, coastal cafés or lashings of culture? The UK’s stunning coastline is smattered with a diverse array of vibrant towns where beach life blends with a cosmopolitan coastal lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking seafront shopping, swanky restaurants or sandy-toed adventures, these ten seaside towns should be on your radar for a staycation in 2025.
1. Saltburn-by-the-Sea, Yorkshire
Best For: Victorian seaside vibes on the North Sea
Thanks to the Victorian industrialist Henry Pease, who created Saltburn in 1858, this iconic east coast seaside town exudes charm and good looks to this very day. The original pier marches out into the waves, the funicular carries visitors up and down the cliffs, and the huge sandy beach begs you to kick off your shoes and feel the sand between your toes. Despite its Victorian foundations, there’s a contemporary vibe to the place, with arty, independent businesses, a pumping surf scene and regular music nights.
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2. Newquay, Cornwall
Best for: Surfing, shopping and sundowners on sea
A little bit saucy and a very, very cool, Newquay has transformed from a thriving Victorian coastal resort into the UK’s surfing capital. Which means you can be in the penny arcades one minute and catching world-class waves the next. The fishing harbour and necklace of beaches beckon all sorts of beach goers, from swimmers to dog walkers, and the town’s creative edge is expressed in sky-high murals and year-round music, festivals and entertainment. It’s a haven for holidaymakers, served by a variety of tourism businesses. While pasties, ice cream and cheesy souvenirs are still up for grabs, there’s a much more sophisticated vibe about town, with chic threads, coffee lounges, world food and cocktail bars for sundowners on sea. What’s more, there’s plenty of beachside accommodation, so you can ditch the car and make the most of everything on foot.
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3. Tynemouth, Tyne and Wear
Best for: Historic charm and sandy beaches
Slip just outside of industrial Newcastle and you’ll arrive in Tynemouth – an elegant seaside town with a lively character. The impressive ruins of Tynemouth Priory overlook a stunning stretch of beach, while the Victorian market and quirky cafés make this a dream destination for food lovers and history buffs alike. Whether you’re surfing at Longsands Beach or strolling along the pier, Tynemouth offers an idyllic coastal retreat with a friendly, local feel.
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4. Dartmouth, Devon
Best for: Nautical charm and riverside beauty
Nestled along the River Dart, this timeless harbour town is known for its sailing heritage, pastel-hued cottages, and bustling waterfront. Dartmouth’s independent boutiques, historic castles, and gourmet seafood restaurants beckon beach goers with a penchant for fine food, fashion and a lick of culture by the coast. And whether you’re exploring by boat or taking a scenic walk along the South West Coast Path, it’s easy to step out into the tranquillity of nature and stunning waterside views.
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5. Amble, Northumberland
Best For: Artisan markets by the sea
Head to this hidden gem on Northumberland’s coast for bucketfuls of seafood, scenery and nature. Known as ‘the friendliest port in England’, a title dating back to a telegram sent to the RMS Mauretania in 1935, Amble boasts a beautiful marina, artisan markets, and a growing reputation as a foodie destination. An authentic seaside town without the chintzy trappings of some of Britain’s more traditional destinations, here you can take a stroll along the pier for lungfuls of fresh sea air, tuck into a fresh seafood platter, take a boat trip to Coquet Island, or explore the wild, unspoiled beaches nearby.
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6. North Berwick, East Lothian
Best For: Wildlife encounters
A picturesque Scottish seaside town, North Berwick is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With golden beaches, a charming high street, and easy access to the stunning Bass Rock seabird colony, it’s the ideal coastal retreat if you’re seeking a blast of sea air, relaxation and exploration. While you can huddle in the cafés when the north wind doth blow, North Berwick is all about the scenery, which is much better experienced over a round of golfing, wildlife spotting and wrapping up for long walks along the wild and empty shoreline.
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7. Selsey, West Sussex
Best For: Maritime history and water sports
Sitting at the southernmost point of West Sussex, Selsey is a vibrant coastal town famous for its rich maritime history and thriving fishing community. True to its heritage, you can tuck into locally-caught crab and fish flipped straight off the fishing boats, between mooching along the seafront and exploring the historic lifeboat station. Looking for a little more action to work up an appetite? Selsey is a sublime spot to castaway on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP), while the waters off Selsey Bill are one of the best scuba diving locations on the south coast. And if you fancy trying windsurfing or kitesurfing, the white sandy stretch of West Wittering beach is just a short drive away.
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8. Ramsgate, Kent
Best for: Cool seaside resort close to London
Just two hours by train from the Capital, Ramsgate is fast becoming one of the UK’s trendiest coastal towns, and not only because it’s cheap and easy to get to by rail. Offering a mix of classic seaside fun and a thriving creative scene, Ramsgate is packed with independent shops, vinyl stores, art galleries, and sublime seafood eateries. Whether you hop on a boat trip, head to the beach with buckets and spades, explore the historic harbour or browse boutiques and galleries, this vibrant town meets the many faces of an easy and exciting seaside break.
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9. Blackpool, Lancashire
Best for: Classic British seaside fun
Call us old fashioned, but no list of seaside staycations would be complete without Blackpool. With its iconic tower, famous Pleasure Beach, and dazzling illuminations, Blackpool remains the ultimate destination for a traditional British beach holiday. And while it’s known for its lively atmosphere, Blackpool also offers miles of golden sands and a newly regenerated seafront perfect for long coastal walks. So whether you’re visiting for the thrills or the nostalgia, Blackpool promises a memorable staycation.
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10. Hastings, East Sussex
Best for: Seafood by the beach
A fantastic alternative to Brighton, Hastings combines rich history with a thriving seaside culture. Home to the UK’s largest beach-launched fishing fleet, it’s a seafood lover’s paradise – whether you fancy fish and chips on the beach or a swanky restaurant serving catch of the day. Beyond the seafront and seafood Hastings boasts a vibrant Old Town packed with quirky shops, a restored pier, smuggler’s caves, and stunning coastal views from its clifftop funicular. So pack your bags for the perfect mix of heritage, creativity, and beachside relaxation.
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Find the Perfect Coastal Cottage for Your Seaside Staycation in 2025
Ready to book a seaside getaway for 2025? Whether you prefer a seaside town packed with culture or a shoreline where wildlife reigns, Simply Sea Views offers a huge range of holiday cottages throughout the UK. Check out our collection of holiday cottages and find the perfect base for your seaside stay in 2025.
