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Hidden beaches UK

The United Kingdom is home to some of the most stunning coastlines in the world, some being extremely popular. Therefore, many look for hidden gems, known only to locals and intrepid explorers, for a more tranquil and secluded beach experience. So, what are the best hidden beaches in the UK?

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From secluded coves to windswept bays, these secret beaches in the UK offer a chance to escape the crowds and bask in nature's unspoiled beauty, for a romantic, solo, or family getaway. You’ll find some of the best hidden beaches scattered across places such as Wales, Scotland, and South Coast areas like Cornwall, Essex, and Dorset. Will it be Morfa Bychan you visit, Steephill Cove, or maybe Whitecliff Bay? Join us as we unveil the top 16 hidden beaches in the UK, perfect for those seeking solitude, adventure, and a touch of seaside magic…

Secret beaches in North Wales

You’ll find plenty of hidden beaches in the UK if you’re visiting North Wales. The rugged and picturesque coastline is dotted with secret beaches that are well worth the journey. Here are our top picks.

Morfa Bychan, Porthmadog image

Morfa Bychan, Porthmadog

Nestled on the North Wales coast, Morfa Bychan (also known as Black Rock Sands) is a hidden gem that only reveals itself at low tide. This secluded cove is surrounded by towering cliffs and offers a tranquil escape from the bustling beach nearby.

If you’re staying at Barmouth Bay Holiday Park, you can drive to Morfa Bychan Beach in around 40-minutes.

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Porthdinllaen, Llyn Peninsula image

Porthdinllaen, Llyn Peninsula

Accessible only by foot or boat, you can immediately see why Porthdinllaen is considered one of the best secret beaches in the UK. The tiny fishing village on the Llyn Peninsula boasts a scenic cove that’s guarded by rocky cliffs and sheltered from the wind.

The beach provides the perfect spot for swimming, beachcombing, and soaking up the sun in peaceful seclusion.

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West Shore Beach, Llandudno image

West Shore Beach, Llandudno

While Llandudno's North Shore is a popular destination, the West Shore Beach remains more of a hidden treasure. This long stretch of golden sand is backed by grassy dunes and offers stunning views of the Great Orme headland. With its peaceful atmosphere and fewer crowds, it’s one of the best quiet beaches in the UK for you to spend a day out.

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Hidden beaches in Scotland

Heading over now to Scotland's rugged coastline, you’ll find this location is home to some of the most breathtaking hidden beaches in the UK, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience. Let’s look at some of the best options:

Tentsmuir Sands, Tayport image

Tentsmuir Sands, Tayport

Tentsmuir Sands is a sprawling expanse of pristine beach that stretches for miles along the Fife coast. This hidden gem is flanked by towering dunes and offers a sense of solitude and tranquillity. With its stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife, this is a must-visit on your trip to Scotland.

plus, this beach is just a 45-minute drive from Piperdam Leisure Resort.

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Lunan Bay, Angus image

Lunan Bay, Angus

Another one of the best secret beaches in the UK, and Scotland specifically, is Lunan Bay located on the Angus coast. Renowned for its striking red sandstone cliffs and vast sandy beach, this secluded spot is a favourite among locals and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

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Quiet beaches in the UK South Coast

The South Coast of the UK is home to numerous hidden beaches in the UK, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty, seclusion, and charm. Here are some of the best options if you’re heading here for your next family break.

Kynance Cove, Cornwall image

Kynance Cove, Cornwall

Kynance Cove is a true gem of Cornwall, known for its stunning turquoise waters, towering rock stacks, and secluded coves. This secret beach is tucked away along the Lizard Peninsula and offers a sense of seclusion and tranquillity that is hard to find elsewhere. Just Imagine relaxing by the crystal-clear waters and not having to worry about the busy crowds.

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Steephill Cove, Isle of Wight image

Steephill Cove, Isle of Wight

Nestled in the heart of the Isle of Wight, Steephill Cove is one of the most charming hidden beaches in the UK, offering a true escape from the crowds. This picturesque cove is surrounded by lush greenery and features a small fishing village with quaint cottages and a charming seafront.

Also, just a 15-minute drive from The Lakes Rookley Holiday Park.

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Man O' War Beach, Dorset image

Man O' War Beach, Dorset

Heading down to the Coastline of Dorset, you’ll find the hidden Man O' War Beach, located on the Jurassic Coast. This secluded beach is accessible only by a steep footpath, making it a true escape from the crowds.

With its towering cliffs, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters, it offers a serene and picturesque setting for those seeking a peaceful beach retreat.

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Pedn Vounder Beach, Cornwall image

Pedn Vounder Beach, Cornwall

Along the Penwith Peninsula, Pedn Vounder Beach is a hidden cove tucked away in Cornwall. This secluded spot is accessible only by a steep descent down rocky cliffs, making it a true hidden gem for adventurous beach lovers.

If you’re driving from St Ives Bay Holiday Park, you can reach this beach in only around 35-minutes.

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Luccombe Bay, Isle of Wight image

Luccombe Bay, Isle of Wight

Luccombe Bay is a hidden gem located on the Isle of Wight's southeastern coast. This secluded beach is surrounded by towering cliffs and is great for those of you who want a tranquil escape from the crowds. With its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic scenery, it's a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and soaking up the natural beauty of this stunning island.

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Visit a private beach for beauty and seclusion

When it comes to hidden beaches in the UK, one of the best ways to experience this is with a private beach. If you want the ultimate level of seclusion and exclusivity, the UK is home to several private beaches that offer a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Here are our top picks, each privately owned by Away Resorts Parks:

Runswick Bay, Yorkshire image

Runswick Bay, Yorkshire

Runswick Bay is one of the quieter beaches in the UK, located on the Yorkshire coast, known for its picturesque red-roofed cottages and stunning sandy cove. This secluded spot offers a true sense of tranquillity and is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

Also, if you want all the family to enjoy this secret beach, the area is dog-friendly all year round.

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Two children running on the beach with surf boards towards the sea.

Hale Beach, Cornwall

The first private beach on our list is Hale Beach, a breathtaking spot located in the heart of Cornwall. This hidden gem is accessible to residents and guests of the nearby luxury resort, perfect for a sense of tranquillity. The golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and stunning coastal scenery can be right on your doorstep.

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Dawn breaking over the beach at Whitecliff Bay. One of our stunning locations in the Isle Of Wight

Whitecliff Bay, Isle of Wight

Whitecliff Bay is a secluded private beach located on the Isle of Wight's southeastern coast. This hidden gem comes with pristine sands, dramatic cliffs, and stunning natural beauty. It's a true oasis for those seeking a private and indulgent escape to one of the best hidden beaches in the UK.

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A view of the beach through some long grass at Mersea Island, Essex.

Mersea Island Beach, Essex

The last location for our top hidden beaches in the UK is Mersea Island Beach, a secret beach located off the coast of Essex. This private beach offers a sense of exclusivity and seclusion as soon as you step onto the soft, golden sands. Enjoy some relaxation and soak up the sun, or build sandcastles with your family.

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Hidden beaches in the UK FAQs

To further add to your excitement, here are some of the answers to our most frequently asked questions about hidden beaches in the UK…

What is the number 1 hidden beach in the UK?

While it's difficult to definitively name the number 1 hidden beach in the UK, Kynance Cove in Cornwall is widely regarded as one of the most stunning and secluded beaches in the country.

With its dramatic rock formations, turquoise waters, and secluded coves, it offers a truly unforgettable beach experience.

What is the most unique beach in the UK?

The most unique beach in the UK is arguably Tentsmuir Sands in Tayport, Scotland. This vast expanse of pristine beach is flanked by towering dunes and offers a true sense of solitude and tranquillity.

However, uniqueness can be subjective, and there are plenty of other hidden beaches in the UK with their own unique charm.

Where is the prettiest beach in the UK?

While beauty is subjective, many consider Sennen Cove in Cornwall to be the prettiest beach in the UK or among the top choices.

With its pristine sands, turquoise waters, and breathtaking landscapes, it offers a truly stunning and picture-perfect beach experience.

Get ready for your secret escape to hidden beaches in the UK…

Whether you're seeking solitude, adventure, or simply a chance to bask in nature's unspoiled beauty, these hidden beaches in the UK offer a truly unforgettable experience. From the secluded coves of the Isle of Wight to the private beaches of Cornwall, these hidden gems offer a respite from the crowds and a chance to connect with the stunning coastline that makes the UK such a remarkable destination.

So, pack your beach essentials, lace up your walking shoes, and book your holiday to some of the most stunning and hidden beaches in the UK… 

Take a look at similar articles

Take a look at beaches by region:

Hampshire | Scotland | Isle of Wight | Dorset | North Wales | Yorkshire | Lincolnshire | Cornwall

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