There’s nothing quite like a beach holiday to create lasting family memories. The UK is blessed with a stunning coastline, offering an array of charming coastal towns perfect for a family getaway. As a lifestyle blogger and a parent, I am always on the lookout for destinations that offer something special for everyone, from toddlers to teenagers. In this guide, I’ll share some of the top coastal towns for a family beach holiday, complete with activities suitable for different age groups.
Why Choose a Coastal Town for Your Family Holiday?
Beach holidays offer a delightful mix of relaxation and adventure. They provide opportunities for children to explore nature, play in the sand, and learn about marine life. Coastal towns often have additional attractions such as amusement parks, historic sites, and family-friendly restaurants, making them ideal for a well-rounded holiday. Plus, spending time by the sea has numerous health benefits, including reducing stress and boosting overall well-being.
Top Coastal Towns for a Family Beach Holiday
1. St Ives, Cornwall
St Ives is a picturesque town known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant art scene, and family-friendly atmosphere.
For Toddlers:
- Porthminster Beach: This sheltered beach with golden sands and calm waters is perfect for young children. The beach has excellent facilities, including toilets and a café, making it easy for families to spend the day.
- Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden: Introduce your little ones to the world of art with a visit to this museum. The garden is an enjoyable space for toddlers to explore safely.
For School-Age Children:
- St Ives Surf School: Older kids can take surfing lessons tailored to beginners. Surfing is a fun way to introduce them to water sports while ensuring they stay safe under professional supervision.
- Seal Island Boat Trips: Take a boat trip to see the local seal colony. These trips are educational and thrilling, providing an opportunity to see seals in their natural habitat.
For Teenagers:
- Tate St Ives: This modern art gallery offers a more sophisticated experience that teenagers might appreciate. The museum’s location also provides stunning views of the coast.
- Coastal Walks: There are numerous scenic walks around St Ives, such as the path to Zennor. These trails offer challenging hikes and breathtaking views, perfect for adventurous teens.
2. Bournemouth, Dorset
Bournemouth is a bustling seaside resort town known for its seven miles of sandy beaches and family-friendly attractions.
For Toddlers:
- Bournemouth Beach: The gently sloping sands and shallow waters make this beach ideal for toddlers. There are also plenty of amenities, including baby-changing facilities and kid-friendly eateries.
- Oceanarium: This aquarium is home to a variety of marine creatures, including sharks, turtles, and penguins. It’s a wonderful place for toddlers to learn about sea life up close.
For School-Age Children:
- RockReef Adventure Activity Centre: Located on Bournemouth Pier, RockReef offers indoor climbing, a highline aerial obstacle course, and a Pier Cave. These activities are perfect for energetic kids.
- Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum: This museum has interactive exhibits and beautiful gardens, making it an engaging and educational experience for children.
For Teenagers:
- Bournemouth Pier Zip Line: Thrill-seeking teens will love this zip line that takes you from the end of the pier to the beach. It’s the only pier-to-shore zip line in the world!
- Surfing and Paddleboarding: Teens can rent surfboards or paddleboards and enjoy the waves. Bournemouth offers various rental shops and surf schools to get them started.
3. Whitby, North Yorkshire
Whitby is a historic coastal town with a rich maritime heritage, stunning cliffs, and beautiful beaches.
For Toddlers:
- Whitby Beach: This beach is sandy and spacious, ideal for building sandcastles and paddling in the shallow waters. The beach also has easy access to facilities.
- Pannett Park: A lovely park with playgrounds, beautiful gardens, and a museum. It’s a great spot for toddlers to run around and explore.
For School-Age Children:
- Whitby Abbey: Explore the ruins of this ancient abbey that inspired Bram Stoker’s “Dracula.” The site offers interactive exhibits and stunning views of the town and coastline.
- Captain Cook Memorial Museum: Learn about the life and voyages of Captain James Cook. The museum has fascinating exhibits that will captivate young minds.
For Teenagers:
- Whitby Ghost Walks: Take a ghost walk through the historic streets of Whitby. These tours are both educational and thrilling, delving into the town’s eerie past.
- Fishing Trips: Whitby offers various fishing trips where teens can try their hand at catching fish in the North Sea. It’s a fun and engaging activity that connects them with nature.
4. Tenby, Pembrokeshire
Tenby is a charming walled town known for its pastel-coloured houses, medieval walls, and beautiful beaches.
For Toddlers:
- Tenby South Beach: This expansive sandy beach is perfect for toddlers. It has safe swimming areas and plenty of space for little ones to play.
- Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo: Located just outside Tenby, this park has farm animals, a zoo, and indoor play areas suitable for toddlers.
For School-Age Children:
- Tenby Museum and Art Gallery: The museum offers child-friendly exhibits about the history of Tenby and its maritime heritage. It’s a fun and educational visit for kids.
- Dinosaur Park: This adventure park features dinosaur trails, mini-golf, and various rides and attractions. It’s a hit with school-age children who love dinosaurs.
For Teenagers:
- Coasteering: Tenby is one of the best places to try coasteering, which involves cliff jumping, swimming, and exploring caves. It’s an adrenaline-pumping activity that teens will love.
- Kayaking and Canoeing: Rent kayaks or canoes and explore the beautiful coastline. Tenby’s calm waters and scenic views make it an ideal location for water sports.
5. Southwold, Suffolk
Southwold is a quaint coastal town known for its sandy beach, colourful beach huts, and iconic pier.
For Toddlers:
- Southwold Beach: The gently sloping sands and calm waters make this beach ideal for toddlers. The colourful beach huts add to the charm and provide a picturesque backdrop.
- Southwold Pier: The pier has a range of family-friendly attractions, including an arcade and quirky water clock. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll with young children.
For School-Age Children:
- Adnams Brewery Tours: While the brewery tour might seem like an adult activity, it’s quite family-friendly. Older kids will enjoy learning about the brewing process and the history of Adnams.
- Southwold Maize Maze: Open during the summer months, this maze offers a fun and challenging activity for school-age children. There are also other attractions like go-karts and trampolines.
For Teenagers:
- Cycling: Southwold and the surrounding area offer excellent cycling routes. Teens can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Suffolk coast while getting some exercise.
- Sailing Lessons: Teens can take sailing lessons at the Southwold Sailing Club. It’s a fantastic way to learn a new skill and enjoy the coastal waters.
Benefits of a Family Beach Holiday
A family beach holiday offers numerous benefits for everyone:
- Physical Activity: Beach holidays encourage physical activities like swimming, surfing, and beach games, promoting a healthy lifestyle.
- Educational Opportunities: Exploring coastal towns provides children with learning opportunities about marine life, local history, and geography.
- Mental Wellbeing: The relaxing environment of a beach holiday helps reduce stress and improve overall mental wellbeing.
- Family Bonding: Shared experiences and adventures strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories.
Tips for a Successful Family Beach Holiday
- Plan Ahead: Research your destination and plan activities that cater to all age groups. Ensure you have accommodation and transport sorted in advance.
- Pack Wisely: Bring essentials such as sunscreen, hats, swimwear, and beach toys. Don’t forget snacks and plenty of water.
- Stay Safe: Always supervise children near water and ensure they wear appropriate swim gear. Be aware of tides and weather conditions.
- Be Flexible: While it’s good to have a plan, be prepared to adjust based on the weather and your children’s energy levels.
Conclusion
The UK’s coastal towns offer a wealth of opportunities for a perfect family beach holiday. Whether it’s the artistic charm of St Ives, the bustling energy of Bournemouth, the historic allure of Whitby, the scenic beauty of Tenby, or the quaint atmosphere of Southwold, there’s something for every family. By choosing the right activities for different age groups and planning ahead, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable holiday for everyone. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and head to the coast for an unforgettable family adventure.
