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Planning a coastal group holiday is all about finding the sweet spot between things to do together and space to unwind. The best seaside towns for group escapes offer a strong mix of beach time, walkable centres, great food, and activities that work for different ages and energy levels – from adrenaline-fuelled adventures to easy-going harbour days and scenic coastal walks.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up eight of the UK’s best seaside towns for coastal group holidays, spanning Cornwall, Devon, Wales, Yorkshire and Northumberland. For each destination you’ll find ideas for group-friendly activities, plus why the town works so well for big gatherings, and where to stay for the best base.
1) Newquay, Cornwall
Best for: Surf-focused weekends, big beach days, lively evenings
Newquay is one of the UK’s most popular seaside towns for groups because it’s built for shared fun: wide beaches, a strong activity scene, loads of casual dining, and a social atmosphere that suits everything from family gatherings to friend-group escapes. Whether your group is into water-sports or just wants easy beach access and great sunsets, Newquay is a reliable crowd-pleaser for Cornwall group holidays.
Group activities in Newquay
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Group surf lessons – Newquay is famous for surfing and there are multiple providers offering lessons for groups and beginners.
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Coasteering – A classic Cornish group activity combining cliff jumping, scrambling and sea swimming (guided).
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Water-based adventures (jet ski safaris / boat trips) – Great for groups wanting a high-energy day on the water.
Where to stay
For group holidays in Newquay, look for larger coastal houses or apartments close to the main beaches such as Fistral or Towan, ideally with parking. A sea-view base within walking distance of surf schools, restaurants and the coastal path keeps plans simple and makes it easy for groups to split up and regroup throughout the day.
Why it’s ideal for groups:
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Big choice of beaches and group activities
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Easy to split into smaller sub-groups (surfers, walkers, foodies)
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Plenty of accommodation options that suit larger groups and social stays
2) Scarborough, North Yorkshire
Best for: Traditional seaside fun, mixed-age groups, easy day plans
Scarborough has that classic “proper British seaside” feel – and that’s exactly why it works brilliantly for group holidays in Yorkshire. There’s plenty to do without needing complex planning, with promenades, attractions, coastal views and an easy-to-navigate layout.
Group activities in Scarborough
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Visit SEA LIFE Scarborough – Great for mixed ages and an easy daytime activity.
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Boat trips / coastal cruises – A fun shared activity with sea views and wildlife spotting.
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Traditional seafront day – Promenade walks, arcades, fish and chips, and beach games (simple but always popular for groups).
Where to stay
In Scarborough, group-friendly stays work best near the seafront or between the North and South Bay areas, giving you easy access to both beaches and the town centre. Prioritise accommodation with enough communal space for shared meals, plus nearby parking or a designated space, especially if your group plans day trips along the Yorkshire coast. If you plan on travelling throughout the region during your holiday, check out our guide to other seaside towns in Yorkshire, offering plenty of recommendations and helpful tips.
Why it’s ideal for groups:
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Strong variety: beach, attractions, walks and classic seaside atmosphere
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Works well for multi-generational trips
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Easy to fill a weekend without travelling far
3) Tenby, Pembrokeshire
Best for: Picture-perfect harbour vibes, beaches, boat trips, and adventure
Tenby is a dream for groups who want a balance of beach time and scenic experiences. The town is compact and colourful, with several beaches within walking distance and a harbour that makes Wales group holidays by the sea feel easy and memorable.
Group activities in Tenby
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Boat trips to Caldey Island – A classic group day out from Tenby Harbour with wildlife and beautiful views.
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Coasteering or kayaking sessions – Tenby is a major hub for guided coastal adventure activities.
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Beach-hopping – With multiple beaches nearby, it’s easy for groups to spend the day swimming, picnicking and walking between sands.
Where to stay
Tenby is ideal for groups when you stay within easy walking distance of the harbour and beaches, so you can enjoy boat trips and seaside evenings without relying on cars. Consider large holiday cottages in Tenby or apartments with space for everyone to dine together, and if possible choose a sea-view base so the coastal atmosphere continues even when you’re relaxing indoors.
Why it’s ideal for groups:
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Multiple beaches and harbour activities in one walkable place
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Great mix of relaxed and adventurous options
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Strong choice of restaurants, pubs and coastal scenery
4) Woolacombe, North Devon
Best for: Wide sandy beaches, surf energy, and scenic coastal walks
If your group wants huge beach space and a wilder coastal feel, Woolacombe is ideal for group holidays in Devon. It’s known for its expansive sandy bay and is a strong base for groups who love active days: surf, long walks, cliff views and fresh air.
Group activities in Woolacombe
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Surfing and water-sports – Woolacombe is a renowned surf spot, great for group lessons and hire.
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Coastal walking (South West Coast Path) – Woolacombe and nearby Mortehoe offer excellent group-friendly routes with jaw-dropping scenery.
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Morte Point walk + seal spotting – A favourite for groups wanting a memorable cliff-top hike.
Where to stay
For a Woolacombe group break, choose a spacious coastal home close to the beach and dunes, ideally with outdoor space for post-surf downtime and group BBQs. Parking is a real bonus here, especially in summer. Stays near the South West Coast Path are perfect for mixed groups, giving walkers and beach-lovers equal access to the best of the area.
Why it’s ideal for groups:
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Plenty of space – perfect for larger gatherings
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Great for active itineraries and outdoorsy groups
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Easy “together but separate” vibe: walkers, surfers, loungers all happy
5) St Ives, Cornwall
Best for: Art, beachy charm, food, and coastal boat trips
St Ives is perfect for large holiday homes in Cornwall and groups who want a more boutique coastal escape – great food, pretty beaches, and a lively harbour atmosphere. It’s also brilliant for mixed tastes: art lovers can explore galleries, while others soak up the beaches, boat trips and coastal path walks.
Group activities in St Ives
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Harbour boat trips – Sightseeing tours, seal spotting, and group boat experiences in St Ives Bay.
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Beach-hopping – Porthminster, Porthmeor and Carbis Bay nearby offer different vibes for groups.
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Coastal walking – The coast path around St Ives delivers huge views and makes a great “morning together” activity before splitting off for the afternoon.
Where to stay
St Ives is best enjoyed on foot, so a central base near the harbour or beaches helps groups make the most of restaurants, galleries and boat trips without lots of travel logistics. Look for St Ives group accommodation with a balcony, terrace or large windows for sea views, plus enough bathrooms and living space to keep everyone comfortable after long beach days.
Why it’s ideal for groups:
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Strong “holiday atmosphere” with plenty of cafés and restaurants
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Great blend of activities: relaxed, cultural and outdoorsy
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Beautiful scenery for group photos and memorable evenings
6) Salcombe, South Devon
Best for: Estuary scenery, sailing vibes, scenic walks, and relaxed group luxury
Salcombe is a brilliant coastal base for groups in Devon who want something a little more upscale – think boating energy, sandy coves, sea air and sunset drinks. It works well for groups who enjoy the water but also want relaxed dining and scenic exploring.
Group activities in Salcombe
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Foot ferry to East Portlemouth – A classic group day that opens up beaches and coastal walks without a long drive.
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Paddle boarding and water activities – Popular on the calmer estuary waters and ideal for group sessions.
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Beach + coastal path day – Combine coves, scenic routes and a long lunch; Salcombe is built for slow holiday days.
Where to stay
In Salcombe, a hillside or waterfront stay is ideal for groups wanting sea views and easy access to the town’s beaches, ferries and water-sports. Choose Salcombe group accommodation with generous communal space and a terrace for sunset drinks. Because parking can be limited, a property with private parking or a designated space is a major advantage for larger groups. Travelling with pets? Then check out our Salcombe dog friendly guide for tips on best beaches, where to eat and coastal paths.
Why it’s ideal for groups:
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A beautiful, sociable harbour setting
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Great for groups who want water-based activities without intense surf
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Perfect for “special occasion” coastal escapes
7) Whitby, North Yorkshire
Best for: Character, history, food, and atmospheric evenings
Whitby is one of the UK’s most distinctive seaside towns: fishing heritage, gothic history, dramatic views, and a brilliant food scene. It’s an especially good pick for group holidays in Whitby for those who love to explore by day and enjoy cosy pubs or fun evening activities together.
Group activities in Whitby
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Ghost walk – Whitby is famous for its folklore and spooky tales, and group ghost walks are a fun evening activity.
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Whale watching / wildlife trips – Whitby is well known for coastal wildlife boat trips.
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Whitby Abbey walk + 199 Steps – A must-do group activity for views and atmosphere (great photo moment too).
Where to stay
Whitby works brilliantly for groups when you stay close to the harbour and old town, giving you easy access to the abbey, coastal walks and evening pubs. A larger Yorkshire cottage or townhouse with character features and enough dining space makes a great base for shared meals and relaxed evenings. If your group is bringing dogs, prioritise easy access to coastal paths for morning walks.
Why it’s ideal for groups:
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Big variety of day and evening activities
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Strong “town atmosphere” with great food and pubs
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Great for groups who want character as well as coastline
8) Bamburgh, Northumberland
Best for: Big beaches, castle scenery, nature, and calmer group escapes
Bamburgh is one of the most spectacular coastal settings in the UK, with huge sandy beaches and a dramatic castle backdrop. It’s ideal for Northumberland group holidays and those who want a quieter, more scenic escape – with space to walk, explore and breathe.
Group activities in Bamburgh
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Farne Islands boat trip (from nearby Seahouses) – A highlight group activity for wildlife spotting, including seals and seabirds.
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Bamburgh Castle visit – A brilliant group-friendly attraction with views and history.
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Beach walks and dunes – Bamburgh’s wide sands are ideal for long group strolls, games and sunset walks.
Where to stay
For Bamburgh in the North East, the best group stays are those close to the beach, with plenty of outdoor space and easy parking. This is a destination where the landscape is the main event, so choosing a base with sea views or a short walk to the dunes makes the experience feel even more special. Look for large holiday cottages in Bamburgh that suit slow days, big walks and cosy evenings together. If you need more options, take a quick look at our guide to the best Northumberland coastal villages which should offer some inspiration for your next coastal break.
Why it’s ideal for groups:
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Huge space – even in busier seasons it feels open
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Stunning setting for celebrations and memorable photos
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Great for laid-back groups and nature lovers
Quick Tips for Planning a Group Coastal Escape
To keep everyone happy (and avoid decision fatigue), it helps to plan loosely:
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Book at least one group activity in advance (surf/coasteering/boat trips)
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Mix high-energy activities with easy wins (beach games, coastal walks, fish and chips)
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Choose a base with walkable beaches and food options so you don’t rely on driving
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Consider a “together morning, flexible afternoon” approach
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Make sure your accommodation has the basics that groups love: parking, outdoor space, a big dining table, and enough bathrooms
The Best Seaside Towns Make Group Holidays Easy
The best seaside towns for group escapes share a few key qualities: they’re walkable, scenic, and packed with activities that suit different personalities. Whether you want surf energy in Newquay, storybook harbour vibes in Tenby, big-sky space in Bamburgh, or atmospheric evenings in Whitby, the right coastal holiday home makes the whole trip feel effortless.
Pick the town that matches your group’s style, book a couple of shared experiences, and let the rest unfold naturally – because some of the best group holiday moments happen when taking sunset walks, enjoying a kick about on the beach, or during one of the many shared meals.