
As the days draw out and the weather brightens, the call of the Great British coast becomes ever stronger.
In spring, beaches in the UK come into their own; the sea warms up, the golden sands sparkle and often you’ll have the beach to yourselves.
We’ve rounded up some of the best spring beaches to inspire your next holiday using the beautiful images sent to us by our followers on social media, as part of our Spring Holiday Watch campaign in partnership with the RSPB.
You can also click the button below to browse our best cottages for spring or have a read of our guide, Celebrating spring in the UK, for more seasonal inspiration.
Spring cottages
Credit: @psimbee1Roker Beach, Sunderland
There are few moments more special than watching the sun rise or set over the sea. Spring brings longer days and, with it, the chance to see the spectacular sight of the sky turning a rainbow of colours. @psimbee has captured this kaleidoscopic show of a mackerel sky over the Sunderland sea.
Sunderland cottages
Credit: @wellhellosallySaltburn Beach, North Yorkshire
Not all spring days are frolicking lambs and fragrant flowers; the season brings its fair share of atmospheric weather too. But when it’s accompanied by the sound of crashing surf and the smell of salty spray as the waves pound the shore – as captured by @wellhellosally – who can resist the allure of a stormy walk at the beach?!
Saltburn cottages
Credit: @angep1969Saunton Sands, North Devon
Spring is a fantastic time for a beach holiday, with some of the UK’s most popular beaches all but deserted. @angep1969’s photo of Saunton Sands doubles the sense of space, with the pretty spring sky reflected in the almost mirror-like sand; the beach appears to go on forever.
Saunton Sands cottages
Credit: @naomifitz1984Thurstaston Beach, the Wirral
@naomifitz1984 has captured another dramatic spring sunset, where the coastal scenery of Thurstaston Beach could almost pass for California, such is the intensity of the sun, sky and shadows. All you need now is a beer and a BBQ!
The Wirral cottages
Credit: @sanders_Shaldon Beach, South Devon
The hazy light at Shaldon Beach – as captured by @sanders_ve – and the stillness of the shimmering water conjure up visions of the halcyon days of high summer. But summer’s come early in South Devon, and we’d love a visit to this spring coastal destination to hear the sound of the lapping shore and feel the sun on our faces.
Shaldon cottages
Credit: @richards_carlySt Ives, South Cornwall
Is it St Ives or St Lucia we’re seeing in this photo from @richards_carly?! This picture-perfect coastal location is a draw all year round, but the turquoise tones of the water and the clear blue sky above make a dip in the sea seem almost tempting in spring.
St Ives cottages
Credit: Andrew Stokes-OwenTaw/Torridge Estuary, North Devon
The confluence of the rivers Taw and Torridge – between the picturesque villages of Appledore and Instow – can be a millpond one day and a whirlpool the next. Andrew Stokes-Owen has captured an idyllic scene of a spectacular spring sunset, with the sun dipping below the horizon over the serene sea.
Appledore cottages
Credit: @sportsking13_Tenby, Pembrokeshire
Tenby is a perennial seaside favourite, and @sportsking13_ has snapped it at its very best. The shimmering sea, the green grass and the golden sand – there aren’t many more inviting coastal spring scenes than this.
Tenby cottages
UK spring holiday cottages
If you’ve been inspired to visit these spring beaches, or are planning a UK staycation this spring, why not take a look at our range of cottages for spring by clicking the button below? Whether you’re searching for coastal cottages, family-friendly holiday homes or accommodation where you can bring your dog, we’ve got the perfect base for your next springtime adventure.
Spring cottages