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There’s something magical about a family day at the beach – sandy toes, ice cream cones, and endless laughter as the kids build castles or splash in the surf. Luckily, the UK’s coastline is packed with stunning, safe, and fun-packed beaches perfect for children of all ages. Whether you’re planning a summer holiday or a spontaneous seaside weekend, here are the 10 best family-friendly beaches in the UK – all located close to brilliant places to stay.
1. Bournemouth Beach, Dorset
Why families love it:
A long stretch of golden sand and calm waters make Bournemouth a classic choice for families. Lifeguards patrol during the summer, and there are plenty of cafés, ice cream stands, and arcades nearby.
Top family activities:
- Zip line from Bournemouth Pier
- Visit the Oceanarium
- Hire a colourful beach hut for the day
Stay nearby:
Book family-friendly apartments and seaside cottages in Dorset near Bournemouth
2. Woolacombe Bay, Devon
Why families love it:
This award-winning beach has everything a family could want – soft sand, safe swimming, and surf schools for beginners.
Top family activities:
- Try bodyboarding or surfing lessons
- Explore rock pools at low tide
- Enjoy ice cream at Barricane Beach Café
Stay nearby:
Find family holiday parks and coastal cottages in Woolacombe
3. Whitby Beach, North Yorkshire
Why families love it:
Whitby offers seaside fun with a dose of history and charm. Donkey rides, arcades, and the iconic Abbey make it a timeless favourite.
Top family activities:
- Donkey rides and sandcastle building
- Visit Whitby Abbey
- Try the famous fish & chips
Stay nearby:
Choose from guesthouses and family friendly Whitby cottages by the sea
4. Tenby North Beach, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Why families love it:
A beautiful stretch of golden sand framed by cliffs and the colourful town of Tenby, North Beach is one of Wales’s best family beaches. Safe swimming, rock pools, and seaside fun make it perfect for kids.
Top family activities:
- Paddle in calm, clear waters
- Explore Goscar Rock at low tide
- Enjoy ice cream or a beach picnic with harbour views
Stay nearby:
Browse family cottages, seaside apartments, and Tenby lodges by the sea
5. West Sands Beach, St Andrews, Scotland
Why families love it:
A vast, open beach that’s perfect for kites, bikes, and beach games.
Top family activities:
- Fly kites and play frisbee
- Visit St Andrews Aquarium
- Cycle along the sand at low tide
Stay nearby:
Find holiday homes and seaside lodges in Scotland near St Andrews
6. Filey Beach, Yorkshire
Why families love it:
Wide, clean, and classic — Filey is a top pick for families with young children.
Top family activities:
- Build sandcastles
- Hunt for crabs in the rock pools
- Walk the promenade for ice cream
Stay nearby:
Discover sea view apartments and Yorkshire coastal cottages near Filey
7. Perranporth Beach, Cornwall
Why families love it:
Three miles of soft golden sand and gentle surf make this a paradise for family fun.
Top family activities:
- Surf lessons for beginners
- Explore the rock pools and dunes
- Visit the Watering Hole — a pub right on the sand!
Stay nearby:
Browse Cornish coastal cottages and beachfront lodges near Perranporth
8. Blackpool Sands, Devon (near Dartmouth)
Why families love it:
Not to be confused with Blackpool in Lancashire — this sheltered South Devon beach is famous for clear waters and great facilities.
Top family activities:
- Paddle in safe, shallow water
- Enjoy fresh local food at the beach café
- Hire kayaks or paddle-boards
Stay nearby:
Stay in sea view cottages in Devon near Dartmouth
9. Llandudno Beach, North Wales
Why families love it:
A traditional Victorian seaside resort with a long promenade, pier, and family attractions galore.
Top family activities:
- Ride the Great Orme Tramway
- Visit Llandudno Pier for arcades and treats
- Try crabbing along the shore
Stay nearby:
Find family apartments and seaside lodges in Wales near Llandudno
10. Camber Sands, East Sussex
Why families love it:
Camber Sands is one of the South Coast’s best beaches for families — huge dunes, soft sand, and plenty of space to play.
Top family activities:
- Build forts in the dunes
- Try kite buggying or paddle-boarding
- Spot seals at nearby Rye Harbour
Stay nearby:
Choose from holiday parks and coastal cottages in East Sussex around Camber and Rye
Tip: Look for Blue Flag Beaches
When booking your family holiday, keep an eye out for Blue Flag beaches – they’re recognised for safety, cleanliness, and high-water quality, making them perfect for kids. From Cornwall to Scotland, the UK is bursting with family-friendly beaches offering safe swimming, sandy adventures, and seaside memories to last a lifetime. Whether you’re after a lively resort or a peaceful seaside village, there’s a perfect spot for your next family getaway. Start planning your trip and find your perfect coastal stay at Beach Stays – where family seaside holidays begin.