Porthcurno, Cornwall. Image credit: Alina
There is something very special about the UK’s coastline during the summer. Long, sunny days mean it’s time to get out and about and explore those sandy beaches, pretty fishing villages and mysterious coves.
Here at holidaycottages.co.uk, we love summer so much that we’ve teamed up with the RSPB on our Summer Holiday Watch campaign to celebrate the season and help you make the most of those balmy days in our woodlands, countryside and coast.
Our work with the charity doesn’t end there: we donate to its vital restoration and regeneration projects, supporting the revival of key habitats for birds and wildlife and protecting endangered and rare species of trees, plants, insects and more.
Browse these gorgeous coastal images submitted by our followers on social media, including some of the best summer beaches in the UK, and be inspired to book your next seaside adventure.
Coastal cottages
Image credit: Sally Fielden
Isle of Iona
Scotland
The Isle of Iona in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland boasts stunning white sand and blue skies in this photo taken by Sally Fielden. The rugged landscape captured in the distance over the water provides a dramatic backdrop to what could easily be mistaken for a tropical paradise.
Scottish Islands holiday cottages
If you’re a fan of hidden gems like this, take a look at these secluded beaches in the UK.
Image credit: Nicola Jordan
Rhossili Bay
Gower Peninsula, Wales
Boasting 3 miles of inviting golden sand set against a breathtaking coastline, this delightful spot on the South Wales coast appeals to walkers and water sports enthusiasts. Nicola Jordan’s picture sums up its natural charm perfectly; even some of the local wildlife wanted to get involved!
South Wales holiday cottages
Nothing beats exploring the coastline on foot, so read our guide to British coastal walks and start strolling.
Image credit: Emma Louise Anderson
Durdle Door
Jurassic Coast, Dorset
This iconic attraction lies within the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site in Dorset and resembles a prehistoric creature taking a drink. This photo by Emma Louise Anderson shows the steep drop down to the shingle beach and visitors enjoying their day on the coast.
Dorset holiday cottages
Image credit: Alina
Porthcurno Beach
Porthcurno, Cornwall
Think of Cornwall and what comes to mind? Surfing, sunbathing and seaside shenanigans. The county has some of the best summer beaches the UK has to offer and Porthcurno is no exception; just look at that wave breaking onto the sandy shore, captured by Alina.
Cornwall holiday cottages
If you’re a seasoned surfer or keen to get in the water for the first time, there’s no shortage of fantastic places to go surfing on the UK coast.
Image credit: @charlieekirbs
Clacton Beach
Clacton-on-Sea, Essex
This little furbaby is delighted to be beside the seaside at Clacton-on-Sea with @charlieekirbs. Beaches hold obvious appeal for our four-legged friends: plenty of exciting smells and sounds and so much space to run and chase sticks – not forgetting the prospect of a doggy paddle on the shoreline! Ensure your pooch has a thoroughly pawsome holiday with our guide to the UK’s dog-friendly beaches.
Essex holiday cottages
Image credit: Anna Wrigley
Combe Martin Beach
Combe Martin, North Devon
For UK summer beach holidays, North Devon is hard to beat. This photo taken by Anna Wrigley on Combe Martin Beach shows people of all ages enjoying their time on the coast. In March 2022, North Devon became the UK’s first-ever World Surfing Reserve, joining places such as Malibu in California and the Gold Coast in Australia on the list of outstanding surf locations around the world.
North Devon holiday cottages
Image credit: @kbarneswarden
Hastings Beach
Hastings, East Sussex
For a traditional seaside experience, look no further than Hastings Beach in Sussex. It’s close to the resort’s facilities and attractions, making it convenient for families with young children. This photo by @kbarneswarden makes us want to grab our deckchair and sun cream and set up camp for the day.
Sussex holiday cottages
If you’re looking to take the family away this summer, here are some of our favourite family beaches.
Image credit: Mike Price
Totland Bay,
Totland, Isle of Wight
This sandy beach becomes pebbles the closer you get to the sea wall. It sits on the west side of the Isle of Wight, with cracking views across to the English mainland. Taken at high tide as only the pebbles are visible, this picture by Mike Price shows how great this spot is for kicking back and relaxing.
Isle of White holiday cottages
Find your self-catering coastal retreat this summer
Summer is the perfect time to explore the UK’s sensational seaside destinations. Turn that dream of a beach break into a reality with a stay in one of our coastal holiday cottages.
Coastal cottages