Beach Blog

Devon’s coastline offers far more than just great beaches. With two very different coasts, towering cliffs, sheltered estuaries and long sandy bays, it’s one of the UK’s best places to enjoy coastal activities both on and off the water.

South West England is one of the best regions in the UK for dog-friendly coastal holidays. With wild Atlantic beaches, sheltered coves, and miles of coastal paths, it’s a place where dogs are not just tolerated but genuinely welcome.

Wales is made for coastal escapes. In a single trip you can go from wide, dune-backed beaches to secret coves, colourful harbours and cliff-top walks that feel a world away from everyday life. Whether you want a family beach base, somewhere to paddle-board and eat fresh seafood, or a dog-friendly break with miles of sand and scenic paths, the Welsh coast delivers.

Cornwall has a way of drawing people back, year after year. It’s not just the beaches — though they’re undoubtedly some of the UK’s best — it’s the seaside buzz, the extraordinary scenery and the welcoming Cornish locals. Days organised around tide times rather than timetables, meals dictated by the catch of the day, and the calming effect of the ocean all add up to make Cornwall unique.

Somerset’s coastline may be shorter than some of its neighbouring counties, but what it lacks in length it more than makes up for in variety, character and atmosphere. From wide sandy beaches and classic seaside towns to quieter stretches backed by dunes, cliffs and estuary views, Somerset offers its own distinctive take on coastal living — one that feels relaxed and less hectic than other regions.

There’s something about the coast that naturally lends itself to romance. The sound of the waves, wide open seas and a slower pace of life create the perfect backdrop for time together — especially on Valentine’s Day.

There’s something unbeatable about live music by the seaside. Whether you’re dancing on the sand, grooving to the beat by a marina, or singing your heart out whilst overlooking the beach, coastal festivals add a holiday feel that inland events just can’t match. And in 2026, the UK’s seaside festival calendar is stacked with beach-front parties, surf-and-sound weekends, and island events that mean a live gig can be the focal point of your next coastal break.

Planning a group holiday by the sea is all about finding the right balance. You want enough space for everyone to relax, somewhere special that feels like a proper getaway, and a location that keeps the whole group entertained — whether that’s lazy beach days, coastal walks, water-sports or long evenings around the table.

Scotland is an amazing destination in the UK for a coastal getaway with your dog. You can enjoy a wide range of options, from wide sandy shores and dune-backed beaches to rugged rock pools and cliffs. Plus, in many areas, accessing the beach is much easier compared to some parts of England and Wales. However, just because a place is labeled “dog-friendly” doesn’t mean you can let your dog run wild.

There’s nothing quite like coming back from a refreshing walk along the coast, with your cheeks flushed from the brisk sea air, to enjoy the warmth of a real fire. If you add a view of the sea to that scene, you’ve got one of the most desirable setups for a coastal getaway in the UK: a cosy cottage by the sea with a wood-burning stove.