Beaches on the South Coast of the UK to explore this summer

One of the best beaches in the south of England, Broadsands Beach is a popular tourist destination and great for family holidays. With red sand and rock pools on its southernmost end, the beach sits between rocky headlands. Its man-made attractions and amenities include a long promenade, a big car park, beach huts, golfing, and several cafes with BBQ facilities. The beach is well-sited for a walk along a stretch of the South West Coastal Path, a 630-mile journey running from Minehead to Poole. Alternatively, if you fancy some seaside football, there's a spacious parkland area behind the beach for a kick-around, or bring your whole family to build sandcastles before paddling in the calm waters. Finally, consider buying a ticket from one of the kiosks near Paignton Harbour so you don't miss out on a boat trip.

Some of the UK's biggest draws are the sandy beaches along its south coast, including Bournemouth Beach. Here, you have the option to wander along 10 miles of the shoreline between Poole Harbour and Hengistbury Head. Very close to Bournemouth town centre, Bournemouth Beach has a retro pier with swathes of sand stretching into the ocean. The pier offers a variety of theatre shows, and more unusual activities like Rockreef climbing. It's also a favourite spot for shopping and entertainment, thanks to numerous amusement arcades, ice cream stalls, and shops. Explore the promenade on your way to Sandbanks, which is regarded as the world's most expensive seaside town. Dine in high-class seafood restaurants on Sandbank Street and visit the yacht clubs. You can tour Bournemouth by bus, boat, or on foot to discover impressive geology, rock formations, and tropical plants. Finally, don't forget a visit to the Bournemouth aquarium/oceanarium to enjoy its penguin enclosure as well as discover other fascinating marine creatures.

This is a seaside resort in Essex, and one of the best beaches on the south coast of the UK. The Clacton Pier offers amusements and rides for all ages, as well as a rich mix of essential facilities and cafes. The fascinating aquarium and charming streets are also well worth a visit. Get up close and personal with marine life by fishing for carp off the dock. Wind up the day on a steamer cruise along the Thames for the best views under the Tower Bridge. To save time, buy tickets online for boat rides, fishing, and bowling before heading to Clacton Beach.

Backed by whitewashed century-old hotels, Hastings Beach ticks all the right boxes for a great seaside resort. It's located on the seafront of an established seaside town, so you'll have access to plenty of nearby amenities and attractions. A double-layered promenade dominates here in addition to a Victorian pier. Like most of the best beaches on the south coast, Hastings is mainly a shingle beach, supported by groynes. Enjoy beach games and endless fun on the great expanse of sand whenever the tide recedes. There are some dog-friendly zones, and the beach is cleaned every day during summer.

Of all the pebble beaches on the south coast of England, Hayling Island Beach is a top choice for swimmers. The waters are very shallow at low tide and so are perfect for kids to swim. Backed by groynes and West Winner sand bar, the western end is where the real fun is. Set your eyes on the Solent and the Isle of Wight, where ferries and yachts create an attractive backdrop. Groynes shield beachgoers from any harsh sea breezes and provide excellent windsurfing and sailing conditions. It's no wonder that Hayling Island attracts watersport enthusiasts from all over the world. Beachlands at Hayling Island is highly recommended for both relaxing and seaside thrills, including roller coaster rides.