Best Suffolk Towns to Visit by the Sea

Suffolk’s coastline has a very particular magic: big skies, shingle beaches that crunch underfoot, gentle sea air, and towns that still feel proudly independent. It’s a coast made for slow days — early morning walks, fresh seafood lunches, browsing small shops, and long evenings watching the light change over the sea.

Whether you’re planning a short coastal break in Suffolk or a longer self-catering stay, this region is ideal because the seaside towns are close enough to hop between, yet each one feels distinct. Some are known for food and culture, others for nature and wildlife, and a few are perfect for when you just want classic beach time without the crowds you’d find further south.

In this guide, we’ve pulled together eight of the best Suffolk seaside towns in the East of England — Aldeburgh, Dunwich, Southwold, Kessingland, Lowestoft, Orford, Thorpeness and Felixstowe — and for each one you’ll find:

• A unique quality that makes the town stand out

• The best local beaches

• Dog-friendly beach rules (including seasonal restrictions where they apply)

• Things to do

• Where to eat

Dog rules note: Several Suffolk beaches have seasonal dog restrictions on specific stretches. East Suffolk Council publishes the current restriction periods and affected locations, and many beaches are also listed as “free of dog controls” in some sections. If you are planning a coastal holiday with your four legged friend then you may want to check out our dog friendly holiday guide, full of helpful tips and alternative locations you may want to consider.

• Check signs at beach access points — restrictions are often limited to specific zones, not whole towns.

• Plan summer dog walks early or late, and keep a few “always dog-friendly” beaches in mind (Dunwich is a great example).

• Be wildlife aware near dunes, marshes and nature reserves — leads may be requested even when beaches are generally dog-friendly.

Suffolk’s coast is perfect for travellers who want something a little calmer, with a sense of space and a strong local identity. Whether you’re drawn to Aldeburgh’s food scene, Dunwich’s quiet natural coastline, Southwold’s pier-and-beach-hut atmosphere, Orford’s history and river setting, or Felixstowe’s easy-going seaside base, there’s a Suffolk coastal town to suit every kind of beachside holiday.

Suffolk is easy to reach by car, with the A11, A12, A14 and A140 forming the county’s main road connections. And if you are travelling in an electric car, you should check out our guide to EV friendly holiday cottages, full of tips and helpful advice. When you arrive in Suffolk, get ready to enjoy beach walks, seafood lunches, gentle exploration, or simply reading a book to the sound of the sea.