If you’re looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of London, sandy beaches are a great option. Fortunately, there are plenty of beaches within easy reach of the city. Here are 12 of the best sandy beaches near London for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly beach with many activities or a secluded cove where you can relax in peace, there’s a beach on this list. From the popular Brighton Beach to the lesser-known beaches of Camber Sands and West Wittering, each of these sandy beaches has its unique charm.
So, pack a picnic, grab your sunscreen, and head to one of these sandy beaches near London for some fun in the sun. You won’t have to travel far to find a beautiful beach where you can soak up some rays, swim in the sea, and enjoy a day by the coast.
Why Visit Sandy Beaches Near London?
If you’re looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, sandy beaches near London are a perfect getaway. Not only are they beautiful and serene, but they also offer a range of activities and amenities to make your visit enjoyable. Here are a few reasons why you should consider visiting sandy beaches near London:
- You can enjoy a day at the beach without having to travel far. Many beaches are within a short drive or train ride from London.
- Sandy Beaches offer a relaxing environment where you can soak up the sun, read a book, or dip in the water.
- Beaches near London offer a range of activities, including water sports, hiking, and biking.
- Many beaches have facilities such as cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it easy to spend a full day there without bringing your food or drinks.
- Visiting a sandy beach is a great way to spend time with family and friends. You can picnic, play beach games, or enjoy each other’s company.
Visiting sandy beaches near London is a great way to relax and recharge. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out with friends or a quiet getaway with your partner, there’s something for everyone at the beaches near London.
Top 12 Sandy Beaches Near London
You’re in luck if you’re looking for a sandy beach near London. Here are the top 12 sandy beaches near London:
1. Camber Sands
Camber Sands is a beautiful beach located in East Sussex. It’s about 1.5 hours away from London by car. The beach is known for its long, sandy beach and dunes. It’s a popular spot for kite surfing and windsurfing.
2. Botany Bay
Botany Bay is a secluded beach located in Kent. It’s about 1.5 hours away from London by car. The beach is known for its white cliffs and rock pools. It’s a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
3. West Wittering Beach
West Wittering Beach is a popular beach located in West Sussex. It’s about 2 hours away from London by car. The beach is known for its shallow waters and clean sand. It’s a great spot for families with young children.
4. Whitstable Beach
Whitstable Beach is a pebble beach located in Kent. It’s about 1.5 hours away from London by car. The beach is known for its colorful beach huts and fresh seafood. It’s a great spot for a day trip.
5. Viking Bay
Viking Bay is a beautiful beach located in Broadstairs. It’s about 2 hours away from London by train. The beach is known for its golden sand and rock pools. It’s a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
6. Eastbourne Beach
Eastbourne Beach is a shingle beach located in East Sussex. It’s about 1.5 hours away from London by train. The beach is known for its Victorian pier and colorful beach huts. It’s a great spot for a day trip.
7. Dymchurch Beach
Dymchurch Beach is a sandy beach located in Kent. It’s about 1.5 hours away from London by car. The beach is known for its amusement park and miniature railway. It’s a great spot for families with young children.
8. Littlehampton Beach
Littlehampton Beach is a sandy beach located in West Sussex. It’s about 2 hours away from London by train. The beach is known for its colorful beach huts and dunes. It’s a great spot for a day trip.
9. Broadstairs Beach
Broadstairs Beach is a sandy beach located in Kent. It’s about 2 hours away from London by train. The beach is known for its rock pools and ice cream stands. It’s a great spot for families with young children.
10. Margate Beach
Margate Beach is a sandy beach located in Kent. It’s about 2 hours away from London by train. The beach is known for its amusement park and retro vibe. It’s a great spot for a day trip.
11. Brighton Beach
Brighton Beach is a pebble beach located in East Sussex. It’s about 1 hour away from London by train. The beach is known for its pier and lively atmosphere. It’s a great spot for a day trip.
12. Bournemouth Beach
Bournemouth Beach is a sandy beach located in Dorset. It’s about 2.5 hours away from London by train. The beach is known for its pier and water sports. It’s a great spot for a weekend getaway.
What to Do at Sandy Beaches Near London?
If you’re planning a day trip to one of the sandy beaches near London, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Here are some ideas:
- Take a dip in the sea and cool off on a hot day.
- Build sandcastles with your family and friends.
- Play beach volleyball or frisbee with your friends.
- Go for a walk along the beach and enjoy the fresh sea air.
- Bring a picnic and enjoy a meal with a view.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, you could also try:
- Surfing or bodyboarding at some of the more popular beaches.
- Windsurfing or kitesurfing for those who are more experienced.
- Exploring the rock pools and discovering the creatures that live there.
- Taking a boat trip or a fishing trip to explore the coastline.
Remember to always check the tide times and weather forecast before heading to the beach and to follow any safety guidelines that are in place. With so much to do, you’ll have a fun-filled day at one of the sandy beaches near London!
How to Get to Sandy Beaches Near London?
If you’re looking to escape the city and spend a day at the beach, you’ll be happy to know that several sandy beaches near London are easily accessible by public transport. Here’s how to get there:
- Southend-on-Sea: Take the train from London Liverpool Street to Southend Central. The journey takes around an hour.
- Brighton: Take the train from London Victoria to Brighton. The journey takes around an hour and a half.
- Whitstable: Take the train from London St Pancras to Whitstable. The journey takes around an hour and a half.
You can hire a car or take a taxi if you prefer to drive. However, parking can be limited and expensive, especially during peak season.
Once you arrive at the beach, you can rent deck chairs, umbrellas, and other beach equipment from local vendors. Some beaches also have restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby.
Remember to check the weather forecast before you go, and bring appropriate clothing and sunscreen. Also, be aware of any safety guidelines and warning flags on the beach.
Overall, getting too sandy beaches near London is convenient, whether by train or car. So pack your bags, grab your beach towel, and enjoy a day of sun, sand, and sea!
Conclusion
Now that you have explored the 12 sandy beaches near London, you have a good idea of the options available for a beach day trip. Whether you prefer a bustling boardwalk or a secluded cove, there is a beach to suit your preferences.
Remember to check the weather forecast and any local restrictions or guidelines before you go. It’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider visiting one of the beaches accessible by public transport. Alternatively, if you have a car and want to explore further afield, there are many more beaches within a few hours’ drive of London.
Overall, the beaches near London offer a great opportunity to escape the city and enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. So pack your bags and head to these beautiful beaches for relaxation and fun. Visit Quest Skinner again for more travel guide and tips.
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