Perhaps you live in a city where wide open spaces are a distant memory, or maybe you live in the middle of nowhere and miss the energy of the ocean, the beachside vibes and that salty sea air.
Wherever you’re from, whatever you’re up to, a trip to the coast can never be beaten. Chill out down on the sand while you read Michelle Obama’s INCREDIBLE best-seller, bring your dog along and go for a coastal walk with the endless sea to one side and dramatic landscape to the other, or get the surfboards out and catch a wave at one of the UK’s hot spots – the north coast of Cornwall is one of our favourite destinations for water sports.
Check out our best 10 coastal escapes in the UK and take a well-deserved break by the sea.
1. A stylish coastal cottage in Dorset (with a hot tub!): Rockhaven, Mudeford
This large holiday home by the sea welcomes eight guests and one dog.
Why it’s one of the best:
Striking architecture and a modern grey/blue interior combine to create a 21st-century cottage by the coast.
With rustic touches, ocean-themed decor and an entire wall of the property apparently dedicated to floor-to-ceiling windows and doors, this holiday home is unmissable. Did we mention it has a hot tub? Total luxury.
A review by our guest, Claire, after she enjoyed a group holiday by the beach:
“This property is exceptional - it is incredibly spacious, of a very high standard in terms of decor, furnishings, cleanliness and is superbly located to Avon Beach.
“If you are a family or group of friends then this property has everything you could wish for - large garden, hot tub, games room, BBQ, an open-plan layout and plenty of outdoor and indoor seating/dining areas. The pictures of this property are fantastic and still we were taken aback by how stunning this property is.”
Take a look inside this contemporary seaside abode on the Jurassic Coast.
2. A dog-friendly coastal cottage in Norfolk: Thompsons, Brancaster Staithe
This seaside cottage welcomes two dogs and their four humans for a fun family Norfolk break.
Why it’s one of the best:
We already know Norfolk is beautiful - the never-ending nature reserves are testament to that - but people often spend so much time navigating the Broads they forget to visit the county’s extraordinary coastline.
This stylish romantic retreat for two is set in North Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty so you can visit lavender fields, spot seals and relax on pristine beaches. Or stay in and gaze out to sea from the glass terrace.
A review from Sonia who enjoyed a family holiday at this dog-friendly coastal cottage:
“Perfect family holiday home, beautiful cottage in prime location. We enjoyed lots of walking with our children and two Labradors. Everywhere is dog-friendly. We enjoyed it so much we're definitely returning next year.”
See more of this stylish family holiday cottage by the sea in North Norfolk.
3. A romantic coastal cottage in Devon: Puffin’s Nest, Hartland
This Devon coastal cottage welcomes two guests and two dogs, ideal for a romantic hideaway.
Why it’s one of the best:
Pops of colour and quirky décor make this seaside holiday home the luxury escape this it is (hello, roll-top bath). You might also notice from the photos that the views of the coast are phenomenal; you’re looking down on fields and a steep drop to the ocean below. Privacy is guaranteed in this unique off-grid location.
A review from Jackie who loved the natural beauty and wildlife she found here:
“We had a fabulous holiday at Puffin's Nest. Small but perfectly formed, it had everything we needed in stunningly beautiful surroundings. Peaceful and quiet, full of swallows, skylarks and wildflowers amidst breathtaking scenery, we loved it and met some lovely friendly people. Hope to return.”
Check out this private coastal retreat for two on the North Devon coast.
4. A coastal cottage in Dorset: Little Spinney, Lyme Regis
Two guests and two dogs can enjoy a Dorset holiday in this romantic coastal retreat.
Why it’s one of the best:
You can sit out on the glass-fronted terrace of this romantic hideaway and enjoy the beautiful scenery over your morning coffee or evening nightcap. Stargaze if that’s your thing or just enjoy the holiday atmosphere from your elevated position above the green countryside on a Dorset holiday.
A review from holiday cottage guest, Sharon, who made the most of the beautiful surroundings:
“Little Spinney is an amazing place to stay: beautiful area, very peaceful. The property is really well equipped, and the owner Kevin was really helpful. Lyme Regis you can walk to along a lovely path; easy on the way there, a bit more strenuous on the way back as it's all uphill, but a beautiful walk. Would thoroughly recommend staying here!”
Find out more about this self-catering romantic getaway in Dorset.
5. An ultra-luxe large holiday home in Devon: The Hoe Cottage, Lynton
Sleeping four guests, this coastal escape is perfect for two couples on a grown-up getaway or a family looking for a unique seaside retreat.
Why it’s one of the best:
Views appear to be a running theme; well, if you’re staying by the coast, a glimpse of the sea is no doubt on your bucket list. With this self-catering coastal escape, you won’t just get a glimpse, you’ll get the whole ocean from your dining room window. The cottage also features glass sliding doors and a terrace with space to dine.
Perfect for adult group getaways by the sea, this accommodation has its very own wine cellar where you can pick and choose which bottle you’d prefer to indulge in while dining on freshly-cooked delights from the fantastic pizza oven.
A short and sweet review from Sam who enjoyed a weekend getaway to this coastal cottage:
“Really very special cottage in a very special location. We had a fabulous long weekend and hope to be able to return soon.”
Escape to this large coastal cottage in Lynton for a seaside getaway to remember.
6. A coastal cottage in Yorkshire: Spyglass 1708, Whitby
A four-person coastal apartment in the heart of the horror-capital of the UK, Whitby – it’s also a wonderful seaside resort.
Why it’s one of the best:
It’s stylish yet cosy and set right in the centre of Whitby. You can look out of the window and see the traditional red-roofed houses lining the streets of this ancient fishing town. Use this seaside holiday home as your base from which to explore the abbey ruins, clifftop walks and the wonderful beach.
A review from Kim who enjoyed the fantastically central location:
“Really enjoyed our stay. So many positives, a charming, clean and cosy place to stay in a great location for shops and access to amenities. Thanks!”
Take a trip to Dracula’s home town to enjoy a relaxed stay in this coastal apartment in Whitby.
7. A penthouse apartment by the sea in Cornwall: Kennack Heights, Lizard
Stay in this impressive penthouse apartment for four guests overlooking the coastline.
Why it’s one of the best:
It’s simply a spectacular penthouse apartment, so need we say more? It’s also a short walk from the beach and those breathtaking views include coastline and the sea beyond - see what you can spot from the comfort of your beautiful lounge. The interior itself is kitted out in a clever mix of coastal blues and greys to emphasis that seaside feeling.
A review from Emma who nicely sums up all the best bits of this seaside getaway:
“Beautiful apartment, within walking distance to a beach and coastal path. Lovely views. Brilliantly stocked kitchen.”
See more photos of this beautiful penthouse apartment near the beach in Kennack Heights.
8. An American-style beach house on the South coast: Beachside, Bexhill-on-Sea, Sussex
Up to four guests can stay in this seafront holiday escape in Sussex.
Why it’s one of the best:
From this photo, you can see just how close to the beach this holiday escape is; roll out of bed, walk ten steps and you could be sunbathing on the shingle and sand of Bexhill Beach. When you want to break up the days down on the sand, head back inside this coastal cottage to dine or read a book while faced with that fantastic view of the ocean.
A review from Tanya whose standout feature was the wonderful sea-facing conservatory:
“Stunning views, helpful owner, beautifully furnished property. Conservatory makes the most of the views whatever the weather. Restaurants are within walking distance.”
Escape to this seafront holiday apartment for a relaxing getaway by the coast.
9. A coastal cottage in Kent: Blue Beach House, Seasalter
This seafront lodge welcomes four guests and two dogs on a beach holiday to Seasalter.
Why it’s one of the best:
Forget walking a whole ten steps; at this coastal cottage you can step out of your garden and straight onto the beach. You’re on the outskirts of Seasalter town, a quiet location with plenty of amenities set on the mouth of the River Swale. The beach itself has a shingle bank and, when the tide is out, a flat expanse of sand is revealed. At times, this scenic situation is so quiet you may feel like you are stepping out onto your own private beach.
A review by Jenny who made good use of the BBQ and fire pit while on this seaside holiday:
“Great house in a peaceful location. Young members of our group loved getting up to go crabbing from the pier opposite the back garden at high tide every day! Fire pit and BBQ got lots of use and it was really convenient having a washer/dryer available to use. Highly recommended.”
Retreat to this coastal getaway in a quiet seaside town in Kent.
10. A New Forest coastal cottage with a hot tub and pool: Gilpin House, Lymington
This big holiday home welcomes ten guests and one dog.
Why it’s one of the best:
We've left the most epic ‘til last. With a private swimming pool and bubbling hot tub, you don’t need to head down the beach to enjoy a dip. This luxury large coastal cottage is perfect for a big group getaway or family celebration with its stylish interior and outdoor amenities that also include a glass summer house with table tennis – everyone will be well entertained.
A review from Mike who hosted 15 guests while staying at this big self-catering cottage near the beach:
“What a great long weekend with the family. Arrived to find a couple of bottles of wine and every nice welcome. Everything you could ask and more. Everything was clean and tidy, even though the building is over 400 years old everything worked and was tastefully decorated. There was lots of room for everyone staying (nine of us) and another six visiting for the day. What a lovely place. The hot tub was a great treat.”
Discover the fantastic coastal cottage with a private hot tub and swimming pool.
Coastal escapes in the UK
Take a trip to one of these fantastic coastal cottages and you could be swimming in the sea or hiking the breathtaking UK coast before you know it.
Which of these seaside escapes takes your fancy? Do you have your eye on that stylish hot tub cottage in Dorset, or that luxury Devon cottage with unbelievable sea views?
All the retreats on this list will allow you to enjoy the coastal life during your UK holiday. If you’re feeling inspired and want to see more, take a look through our collection of coastal accommodation in the UK.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.