Living in Suffolk has given us the perfect opportunity to explore its stunning coastline, and the local beaches never cease to amaze us. They’re one of the top reasons we highly recommend visiting this beautiful corner of the country. To help you discover the best seaside spots, we’ve crafted a list of best beaches in Suffolk, each with its own unique charm. And as a bonus, we’ve included three of our favorite hidden gems from neighboring Essex! This guide isn’t just a list—it’s the ultimate guide for an unforgettable beach road trip.
When to visit Suffolk Beaches & Essex Beaches
We strongly recommend visiting beaches in Suffolk and Essex when it’s sunny. The season doesn’t matter that much. But what matters a lot is the sunshine. As the landscape is flat in this area with no hills or mountains, the beaches and coastline look much better when the sun is out and the skies are blue. Plan your visit carefully. From our experience, 2-3 days of planning is ideal as the weather forecast will stay the same. If you visit during cloudy weather, the view you’ll experience won’t be that magical.
Travelling around Essex and Suffolk Beaches
The best way to explore the beaches in Suffolk or Essex is by car. However, you can get to certain places by public transport, especially by train. Lowestoft, Felixstowe or Frinton on Sea & Walton on the Waze can be easily reachable by trains from London Liverpool Street & Stratford. You must change in Ipswich for trains to Felixstowe or Lowestoft and in Colchester for trains to Fronton & Walton.
Overview of Best Beaches in Suffolk
Beaches in Suffolk are characterised by their tranquil, natural scenery and typically consist of a mix of soft sandy stretches and pebble-laden shores. Many of these beaches back onto quaint seaside towns with rich histories and offer a classic British coastal experience with rows of colourful beach huts, traditional piers, and local fish markets.
They often feature unspoilt landscapes and are part of protected areas like the Suffolk Coast and Heaths AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). These beaches are ideal for peaceful walks, bird watching, and enjoying the region’s natural beauty, with the added benefit of being less commercialised and crowded than many other UK beach destinations.
Lowestoft South Beach
Lowestoft South Beach is one of the hidden gems of the Suffolk coast, offering a perfect mix of relaxation and seaside fun. The beach is family-friendly, with a gentle slope into the sea, an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking. This Blue Flag award-winning beach offers miles of golden sand and clean waters. We suggest going for a walk on the beach all the way from the Claremont Pier to Pakefield, as the Pakefield Beach is usually relatively quiet and has that natural beach feel.
Beyond its natural beauty, Lowestoft South Beach offers plenty of amenities, including cafes, beachfront stalls and beach huts. The nearby promenade is perfect for walks, and you can enjoy local seafood at one of the restaurants with sea views.
Tip: As the most easterly point in the UK, South Beach offers picturesque sunrise views.
Tip: Banksy has created quite a few pieces of art on the Norfolk coastline during his ‘A Great British Spraycation’ in the summer of 2021. Sadly, many of his artworks have been sold to private owners or damaged by vandalism. There is one in Suffolk and another 3 in Norfolk.
You can find some of the Banksy art in Suffolk (as of November 2023):
- In Nicholas Everitt Park in Oulton Broad, not far from Lowestoft, Banksy’s art shows three children in a boat with the tagline ‘We’re all in the same boat’. One of the children is scooping water out of the ship with a bucket.
Covehithe Beach
Covehithe beach is a beautiful, sandy, remote beach, one of the best beaches in Suffolk. It’s great if you want to enjoy a peaceful beach day. The cliffs around the Covehithe beach makes the place look dramatic. You’ll find old tree trunks on the beach and stunning views of the countryside. The beach is part of the Benacre National Nature Reserve, an isolated coastal lagoon known for its wildlife. This area is privately owned, so you can only get to certain permitted places.
Because the Covehithe beach quite remote, it’s never too busy. Parking is available in the village of Covehithe. It’s off-street parking on the main road leading up to the church. The space is limited, so we suggest arriving early in the morning or after 3-4 pm as otherwise you won’t be able to find a parking space. Don’t park anywhere else, as you might get a fine. From the parking space, it’s approximately a 15-minute walk to the beach.
If you want to see the old tree trunks, you need to get to the beach and then turn right and follow the beach until you reach them. If you are after seeing the Benacre reserve, which also have the old tree trunks, you need to turn left after arriving at the beach and follow the cliffs. There are no facilities or snacks on the beach or in Covehithe, so bring plenty of food and drinks.
Southwold beach
Southwold Beach is a sandy, family-friendly spot on the Suffolk coast, well-loved for its traditional British seaside feel. It’s dotted with rows of charming, colourful beach huts that have become a symbol of the area, often costing as much as a small house to buy. The Southwold beach is also known for being exceptionally clean.
We suggest visiting the Southwold Pier, which stretches 800 feet into the sea, offering a glimpse into the town’s resort heritage—the well-maintained wooden groynes along the beach help to prevent erosion. Walking away from the more populated areas, you’ll find quieter spots with dunes. The beach is not just a place to soak up the sun but also a hub of activity with shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it an ideal destination for a full day out by the sea. Not far away from Southwold is Denes Beach, a fantastic escape to nature from busy Southwold.
Dunwich Beach
Dunwich Beach is our absolute go-to when it comes to Suffolk’s coastal treasures. This serene beach offers a perfect blend of sand and pebbles, making it ideal for peaceful walks and wildlife spotting. The moment you arrive, the tranquility of the beach envelops you. Unlike the busier tourist spots, Dunwich Beach remains uncrowded – perfect for those seeking a relaxing, calm escape by the sea.
There is a car park next to the beach and a little cafe. This beach is part of the Dunwich Heath and Beach precious landscape, a part of the Suffolk Coast & Heath Area of Outstanding Beauty. The RSPB Minsmere reserve is nearby. It’s perfect for watching Otters and Red Deer.
Aldeburgh Beach – one of the best beaches in Suffolk
This beach is one of our absolute favorites, a true coastal gem! It’s a charming, clean, and picturesque spot, known for its pebbled shoreline instead of the usual golden sands. You’ll often see local fishermen offering the freshest catch of the day – perfect for seafood lovers!
What makes this beach even more special is its dramatic drop to the sea and a promenade that speaks to its rich maritime history. As you stroll along the beach, don’t miss the iconic Scallop sculpture at Aldeburgh Beach – a striking tribute to composer Benjamin Britten and a must-see for art and culture enthusiasts.
Parking can be very busy in the town. We suggest parking at Thorpe Road Car Park (if you want walk a bit), Fort Green Car park, Oakley Square Car Park or King Street Car Park.
Aldeburgh itself is a small coastline town, but it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Suffolk. Don’t miss it out. When visiting Aldeburgh, you must try their famous Aldeburgh fish and chips and eat them on the beach. They have the best fish and chips in the whole of East Anglia. Just be aware of seagulls. They will try to steal some chips from you. Aldeburgh Fish & Chip Shop is a place for fish and chips.
Shingle Street
The Shingle Street beach is an absolute dream for sunrise lovers and stargazers! Often considered as one of the best spots to catch the sunrise in East Anglia, it offers breathtaking, unobstructed views. Thanks to its lack of light pollution, the night skies here are equally mesmerising, making it a fantastic location for stargazing.
Wildlife lover will also enjoy this escape, as the beach is home to various bird species and playful seals. Adding to its charm is the striking Martello tower and fascinating remains of the World War II anti-tank blocks scattered across the landscape, giving the area a sense of history and mystery. The beach’s remote location, accessible only by a small, winding road, ensures a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience. With parking available right next to the beach, it’s a hidden gem waiting to be explored!
Felixstowe Beach
Felixstowe Beach offers a blend of sandy and pebbly shores along its stunning five-mile coastline, making it a perfect destination for families and seaside lovers . The lively promenade is lined with the charming Sea Front Gardens, adding a peaceful atmosphere to your stroll. Felixstowe boasts two main beaches, each with its own vibe: the quieter North Beach, known for its pebbly shore, and the bustling South Beach with golden sand and family fun.
Don’t miss the iconic South Pier at the South Beach, offering a nostalgic feel to traditional seaside entertainment. For those looking for something more tranquil, Cobbolds Point on North Beach is a hidden gem – a breathtaking spot for soaking in the scenic views.
Overview of Essex Beaches
Essex beaches boast a diverse Essex coastline, ranging from the sandy shores to the tranquil and remote stretches known for fossil hunting and natural reserves. These beaches are often less crowded than other popular destinations in the UK, offering a blend of leisure activities, watersports, and quiet, relaxing spots. Many Essex beaches have promenades lined with shops and eateries, and the county’s seaside towns combine traditional British seaside charm and modern amenities.
Walton on the Naze Beach
The vibrant sandy Walton on the Naze Beach is full of charm and excitement, with its golden shores divided by wooden groynes and sitting beside the impressive second-longest pier in Britain. There’s no shortage of things to do here! The lively promenade is lined with colorful beach huts, inviting cafes, and seaside eateries, while the pier is packed with fun activities for all ages. Just a short stroll away is the Naze, a nature lover’s paradise with wildlife and ancient fossils, perfect for an adventurous day out.
Conveniently located near the town centre, the beach offers easy access to shops and cafes, making it a great spot for a full day of exploring. It’s one the best Essex beaches.
TIP: Don’t miss the iconic Red Beach Huts, a striking feature that adds a splash of color to this beautiful beach. With its Blue Flag status, this beach is one of Essex’s must-visit coastal gems, combining natural beauty, history, and family fun all in one!
Frinton on Sea Beach
The pristine and peaceful Frinton on Sea beach is a perfect getaway for families, offering a clean, serene environment to relax and enjoy the sea. Proudly flying the Blue Flag, the beach’s crystal-clear waters and spotless sands make it an ideal spot for a day out. Right next to the beach, you’ll find a lovely grassy area and a vibrant walkway lined with colorful beach huts, adding to its charming seaside vibe.
Whether you’re into swimming, sailing, or windsurfing, this beach has it all! Plus, it’s just a short distance from the town centre, where you can shop or grab a bite to eat after your day of fun.With its natural beauty and family-friendly activities, this beach is a must-visit for those seeking a relaxing coastal escape.
Cudmore Grove Beach
This enchanting coastal gem on Mersea Island is a must-visit for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty among Essex beaches. With its serene mix of sand and shingle shores, the beach is perfect for adventures and laid-back picnics by the sea. Beyond the shore, you’ll find a stunning nature reserve filled with scenic trails and wildlife.
The beach also offers breathtaking views of the Blackwater Estuary, where the calm waters and peaceful atmosphere create the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Unspoiled and quiet, this beach invites you to unwind, explore, and soak in the beauty of the island.
Extending Coastal Adventure – Seaside towns or beaches of Norfolk
When planning a visit to the picturesque Suffolk beaches & Essex beaches, it’s a great opportunity to delve deeper into the coastal charm by exploring the nearby seaside towns. These towns offer a wonderful local culture, history, and unique culinary delights, enhancing your beach experience.
If you’re seeking a change of scenery or an extended coastal adventure, consider visiting Norfolk. Known for its stunning beaches and natural beauty, Norfolk presents a different yet equally seaside experience. And if you are a wildlife lover, you’ll get a chance to meet Norfolk’s gem – the seals.
Google Map with Points of Interest to Your Phone
We added all the places mentioned in this article directly into a free Google Map of the best beaches in Suffolk & Essex. You can use the map during your trip without the need of manually creating your own map.
How to access our free map of best beaches in Suffolk & Essex? Simply click at the button below to access and download our free Google Map . This will copy the map to your Google account and display it on all devices where you use Google Maps. This Google map can be easily accessed on your phone or printed for convenience.
Enjoy exploring the beaches of Suffolk & Essex!
