Welcome to the sun-soaked shores of Skegness, a charming seaside town that boasts some of the best beaches in Lincolnshire. This traditional British seaside resort offers a perfect blend of golden sands, family attractions, and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for beach holidays. From the lively seaside atmosphere of Skegness Beach to the quieter alternatives along the Lincolnshire coast, there’s a stretch of coastline to suit every beachgoer.
Join us as we explore the hidden gems and popular sandy stretches that make Skegness a beloved destination for families and nature lovers alike. From amusement arcades and candy floss to rolling dunes and bird observatories, discover why Skegness beaches are the perfect backdrop for unforgettable summer memories.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Skegness 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Royal Renaissance Hotel
- 🏨 4-Star: Eastleigh Guest House
- 🛏️ 3-Star: The Anchor Hotel & Bars
- 💸 Cheap: Travellers Rest Motel
- 🏢 Apartment: Victoria Apartments
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Chapel Fields Holiday Park
- 🏩 For Couples: The Hideout
Guide to the Best Beaches in Skegness 📋
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Skegness Central Beach
- 🌤️ For Nature Lovers: Anderby Creek Beach
- 🐦 For Wildlife Enthusiasts: Gibraltar Point Beach
- 🎢 For Thrill Seekers: Ingoldmells Beach
- 🎨 For Nostalgic Vibes: Sutton-on-Sea Beach
- 🏅 For Clean Waters: Mablethorpe Beach
- 🏄♂️ For Active Beachgoers: Huttoft Beach
🌞 Top 10 Beaches in Skegness
1. 🏖️ Skegness Central Beach – Best Skegness Beach for Classic Seaside Fun
Stretching over 3 kilometers, Skegness Central Beach is the epitome of British seaside nostalgia. Its golden sands, as vast as they are inviting, create a playground for families and beachgoers of all ages. The beach’s gentle slope makes it perfect for paddling, with the tide receding up to 500 meters at low tide, revealing a mesmerizing expanse of wet sand perfect for long walks. The iconic Skegness Pier offers panoramic views and a host of entertainment options. As you stroll along the bustling promenade, the air is filled with a symphony of sounds – the laughter of children, the calls of seagulls, and the unmistakable melody of ice cream vans. The beach’s Blue Flag status ensures top-notch water quality and safety, with lifeguards patrolling during peak season.
Best Hotels Near Skegness Central Beach 🏨
- The Anchor Hotel & Bars – This hotel is located just a short walk from Skegness Central Beach and the pier. It offers comfortable rooms and on-site bars, perfect for enjoying the lively seaside atmosphere. The hotel’s central location provides easy access to amusement arcades, fish and chip shops, and other traditional British seaside attractions.
- Royal Renaissance Hotel – Situated near Skegness Central Beach, this hotel offers elegant rooms in a Victorian building. It features a restaurant serving local cuisine and is within walking distance of the beach and promenade. The hotel’s location allows guests to easily explore Skegness’s attractions, including the seal sanctuary and bowling alley.
- The Chadwick Hotel – This family-run hotel is located close to Skegness Central Beach and offers comfortable accommodations with sea views. It features a bar and lounge area where guests can relax after a day at the beach. The hotel’s proximity to the town center makes it an ideal base for exploring Skegness’s shops, cafes, and seaside attractions.
2. 🌿 Anderby Creek Beach – Best for Cloud Watching and Nature
Just 16 miles north of Skegness lies Anderby Creek Beach, a hidden gem that stretches for miles along Lincolnshire’s unspoiled coast. This serene beach is home to the world’s first Cloud Bar, a unique celestial observation deck that invites visitors to lie back and watch the ever-changing sky. The beach’s pristine sands are dotted with colorful wildflowers in spring and summer, creating a picturesque backdrop for leisurely walks. The gentle lapping of waves against the shore provides a soothing soundtrack, occasionally punctuated by the calls of diverse birdlife. As you explore the rolling dunes, you might spot some of the local wildlife, including seals basking on the distant sandbanks.
Best Hotels Near Anderby Creek Beach 🏨
- Luxury Holiday Home in Anderby Creek – This luxurious holiday home offers a peaceful retreat near the unspoiled Anderby Creek Beach. It features modern amenities and is perfect for families or groups seeking a quiet coastal getaway. The property’s location provides easy access to the beach and the world’s first dedicated cloud viewing platform.
- Mogg's Retreat – Located near Anderby Creek Beach, this cozy retreat offers comfortable accommodations in a tranquil setting. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers, with easy access to the beach and nearby nature reserves. The property’s peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for those looking to escape the busier seaside resorts.
- The Hideout – This charming hideaway is situated close to Anderby Creek Beach, offering a secluded stay for couples or small families. It provides a perfect base for exploring the scenic Lincolnshire coast and enjoying quiet beach walks. The property’s location allows guests to experience the natural beauty of the area away from the crowds.
3. 🐦 Gibraltar Point Beach – Best for Birdwatching and Wildlife
Gibraltar Point Beach, part of a 1,000-acre nature reserve, is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. This dynamic landscape, shaped by wind and tides, encompasses a diverse range of habitats from sandy beaches to saltmarshes. The beach itself stretches for 3 miles, its golden sands merging seamlessly with the surrounding dunes and lagoons. Throughout the year, the reserve plays host to an impressive array of birdlife, with over 280 species recorded. In spring and autumn, the skies come alive with the sight and sound of thousands of migratory birds. The modern visitor center, perched on stilts to protect against flooding, offers panoramic views of the reserve and houses interactive exhibits detailing the area’s rich biodiversity. As you walk along the beach, the only footprints you might see could be those of the local wildlife – a testament to the unspoiled nature of this coastal gem.
Best Hotels Near Gibraltar Point Beach 🏨
- Victoria Apartments – These modern apartments are located in Skegness, a short drive from Gibraltar Point Beach and Nature Reserve. They offer self-catering facilities and comfortable living spaces, ideal for families or groups. The apartments provide a great base for exploring the diverse wildlife and scenic coastline of Gibraltar Point.
- Seayr Hotel – This hotel offers comfortable accommodations near Gibraltar Point Beach. It features a restaurant and bar, and is well-situated for guests looking to explore the nature reserve and its bird observatory. The hotel’s location provides easy access to both the beach and Skegness town center.
- Pear Tree Corner – This cozy guesthouse is located a short drive from Gibraltar Point Beach, offering a quiet retreat away from the busier parts of Skegness. It’s an ideal base for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers visiting the nearby nature reserve.
4. 🎢 Ingoldmells South Beach – Best for Theme Park Thrills
Ingoldmells South Beach, a 1.5-kilometer stretch of golden sand, offers a unique blend of seaside relaxation and adrenaline-pumping excitement. The beach is overlooked by Fantasy Island, a theme park boasting over 30 rides, including the UK’s first suspended looping coaster. As you relax on the soft sand, the distant screams of delight from thrill-seekers create an exciting backdrop. The beach itself is a hive of activity, with colorful windbreaks dotting the landscape and the aroma of fish and chips wafting through the air. At low tide, the sea retreats nearly 1 kilometer, revealing vast stretches of wet sand perfect for beach games or long walks. The Ingoldmells promenade, bustling with arcades and souvenir shops, captures the essence of a traditional British seaside resort.
- Villager Hotel – Located near Ingoldmells South Beach, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the beach and Fantasy Island theme park. It features a restaurant and bar, making it a convenient choice for families enjoying a seaside holiday. The hotel’s location allows guests to enjoy both the beach and nearby attractions.
- Chapel Fields Holiday Park – This holiday park offers a range of accommodations near Ingoldmells South Beach, from caravans to lodges. It provides on-site entertainment and is close to local attractions, making it ideal for family holidays. The park’s location offers easy access to the beach and nearby amusement parks.
- The Grange – This guesthouse offers affordable accommodations close to Ingoldmells South Beach. It’s within walking distance of the beach and local attractions, including Fantasy Island. The property’s location makes it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to enjoy the seaside and nearby entertainment.
5. 🌊 Chapel St Leonards Beach – Best for a Relaxed Village Atmosphere
Chapel St Leonards Beach, stretching for 2 kilometers, is a slice of traditional seaside life. The beach is backed by a charming village that seems frozen in time, with its quaint tea rooms and traditional pubs. The golden sands are punctuated by wooden groynes, creating natural sections that offer a sense of privacy even on busier days. The village’s iconic North Sea Observatory, opened in 2018, provides stunning 360-degree views of the coastline and serves as a cultural hub with its art gallery and café. As you stroll along the beach, you might spot locals flying colorful kites, their vibrant hues contrasting beautifully against the blue sky. The gentle slope of the beach makes it ideal for paddling, with the shallow waters extending out for nearly 200 meters at low tide.
Best Hotels Near Chapel St Leonards Beach 🏨
- Travellers Rest Motel – This motel offers comfortable accommodations near Chapel St Leonards Beach. It provides easy access to the beach and local amenities, making it a convenient base for exploring the area.
- Coastfields Holiday Home – This holiday home is situated near Chapel St Leonards Beach, offering a comfortable self-catering option for families or groups. It provides easy access to the beach and local shops, and is a short drive from Skegness.
- 17 Wildflower Meadow – This cozy holiday home is located in a quiet area near Chapel St Leonards Beach. It offers a peaceful retreat with modern amenities and is within walking distance of the beach and local attractions.
6. 🏖️ Sutton-on-Sea Beach – Best for Colorful Beach Huts
Sutton-on-Sea Beach is a visual delight, with its wide expanse of golden sand complemented by a row of over 200 vibrantly colored beach huts. These cheery structures, some of which date back to the 1950s, create a striking contrast against the blue sea and sky. The beach stretches for 1.6 kilometers, offering ample space for sunbathing, sandcastle building, and leisurely walks. The Sutton-on-Sea Pleasure Gardens, located just behind the promenade, provide a tranquil green space with beautifully maintained flowerbeds and a boating lake. As you relax on the beach, the gentle tinkling of wind chimes from nearby beach huts adds a soothing melody to the sound of lapping waves. The beach’s gradual slope makes it safe for swimming, with lifeguards on duty during peak season.
Best Hotels Near Sutton-on-Sea Beach 🏨
- Eastleigh Guest House – This charming guest house is located just a short walk from Sutton-on-Sea Beach, offering comfortable rooms and a hearty breakfast. It’s an ideal base for exploring the quieter stretches of the Lincolnshire coast, with easy access to the town’s shops and cafes.
- Northshore Hotel – Situated near Sutton-on-Sea Beach, this hotel offers stunning sea views and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant serving local seafood and take leisurely strolls along the promenade. It’s perfect for those seeking a traditional British seaside holiday experience.
- Valletta House Holiday Apartments – These self-catering apartments provide a home-away-from-home experience close to Sutton-on-Sea Beach. Each unit comes with a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable living areas, ideal for families or groups looking for a flexible coastal getaway.
7. 🏅 Mablethorpe Beach – Best for Blue Flag Quality
Mablethorpe Beach, proudly flying its Blue Flag, is a 2-kilometer stretch of pristine golden sand that epitomizes seaside perfection. The beach’s gentle gradient means that at low tide, the sea retreats up to 1 kilometer, revealing vast expanses of wet sand ideal for long walks or beach games. The town’s iconic sand train, operating since 1952, offers a unique way to traverse the length of the beach, delighting children and adults alike. Mablethorpe’s Victorian-era promenade, lined with colorful beach huts and traditional seaside attractions, adds a nostalgic charm to the beach experience. The Mablethorpe Seal Sanctuary, located just behind the beach, provides a fascinating insight into local marine life.
Best Hotels Near Mablethorpe Beach 🏨
- Sunnycroft Guest House – Located a short distance from Mablethorpe Beach, this guest house offers cozy rooms and a friendly atmosphere. It’s within walking distance of the town’s attractions, including amusement arcades and traditional fish and chip shops, making it perfect for a classic seaside holiday.
- The Vine Chapel – This unique converted chapel offers stylish accommodation near Mablethorpe Beach. It’s a great base for exploring both Mablethorpe and Chapel St Leonards, with easy access to the coastal path and nearby nature reserves.
- Annie's Hideaway – This cozy holiday home is just a stone’s throw from Mablethorpe Beach, offering a peaceful retreat with all the comforts of home. It’s ideal for families or couples looking to enjoy the golden sands and traditional seaside attractions of Mablethorpe.
8. 🐾 Winthorpe Beach – Best for Dog-Friendly Walks
Winthorpe Beach, a 1.5-kilometer stretch of sand and shingle, is a year-round haven for dog lovers and their four-legged friends. The beach’s diverse landscape, featuring both soft sand and pebble areas, provides a variety of textures for dogs to explore. At low tide, the sea reveals numerous rock pools teeming with marine life, offering endless fascination for curious pups and nature-loving humans alike. The beach is backed by grassy dunes that burst into color in spring and summer with wildflowers, creating a picturesque backdrop for walks. The nearby North Shore Golf Club, with its links-style course, adds to the area’s charm. As you stroll along the shoreline, the distant silhouette of Skegness Pier serves as a reminder of the busier beaches to the south, while Winthorpe maintains its peaceful atmosphere.
Best Hotels Near Winthorpe Beach 🏨
- White Heather Guest House – Situated near Winthorpe Beach, this guest house offers comfortable rooms and a warm welcome. It’s a great choice for those looking to explore the quieter northern end of Skegness while still being close to the town’s main attractions.
- The Cross Guest House – This charming guest house is located a short drive from Winthorpe Beach, offering a peaceful stay away from the bustle of central Skegness. Guests can enjoy easy access to both the beach and the Lincolnshire Wolds for scenic walks.
- Happy Holiday Apartments – These self-catering apartments offer a comfortable base near Winthorpe Beach. They’re ideal for families or groups wanting to enjoy the quieter side of Skegness while still being within reach of the town’s popular attractions and amusements.
9. 🌅 Moggs Eye Beach – Best for Peaceful Sunsets
Moggs Eye Beach, also known as Huttoft Beach, is a hidden gem nestled between Chapel St. Leonards and Anderby Creek. This 1-kilometer stretch of unspoiled coastline offers a tranquil escape from the more bustling resort beaches. The beach is backed by grassy sand dunes that provide natural windbreaks and are home to a variety of coastal flora and fauna. The clear waters and gently sloping beach make it an ideal spot for sea swimming, with the added bonus of often being crowd-free. As the day progresses, Moggs Eye transforms into one of the coast’s premier sunset-watching spots. The uninterrupted views across the North Sea create a vast natural amphitheater for nature’s nightly light show. The beach’s east-facing aspect means that during summer solstice, visitors can witness both sunset and sunrise from the same spot.
Best Hotels Near Moggs Eye Beach 🏨
- Manor Farm Stay – This rural retreat is located a short drive from Moggs Eye Beach, offering a peaceful countryside experience. Guests can enjoy the tranquil surroundings and easy access to one of Lincolnshire’s most unspoiled beaches, known for its natural beauty and wildlife.
- The Bacchus Hotel – Situated in Sutton-on-Sea, this hotel is within driving distance of Moggs Eye Beach. It offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine, making it a great base for exploring the quieter beaches along the Lincolnshire coast.
- Ivydene Cottage – This cozy cottage is located near Anderby Creek, just a short distance from Moggs Eye Beach. It offers a homely atmosphere and is perfect for nature lovers looking to explore the unspoiled stretches of the Lincolnshire coastline.
10. 🚶♂️ Huttoft Beach – Best for Water Sports Enthusiasts
Huttoft Beach, stretching for 1.6 kilometers, is a mecca for water sports enthusiasts. The beach’s consistent winds and expansive shoreline create ideal conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing, with the best conditions typically occurring between September and May. The beach’s unique ‘car terrace’ allows visitors to park directly on the sand, making it easy to transport water sports equipment. On calmer days, the clear waters are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding, with the opportunity to spot seals bobbing in the waves. The beach is backed by low clay cliffs that provide a natural barrier against coastal winds and offer elevated views of the coastline. Throughout the year, Huttoft Beach hosts various water sports events and competitions, drawing enthusiasts from across the country.
Best Hotels Near Huttoft Beach 🏨
- The Victoria Guest House – Located in Sutton-on-Sea, this guest house is a short drive from Huttoft Beach. It offers comfortable rooms and is an excellent base for those looking to explore the quieter beaches north of Skegness, including the unique Huttoft Car Terrace.
- J32 Cabin – This cozy cabin offers a unique stay near Huttoft Beach. It’s perfect for couples or small families looking for a peaceful coastal retreat with easy access to the beach and the surrounding nature reserves.
- S and S Chalets – These charming chalets are located in Mablethorpe, a short drive from Huttoft Beach. They offer a traditional seaside holiday experience with the flexibility of self-catering, ideal for families wanting to explore both the lively resort towns and the quieter beaches of the Lincolnshire coast.
🏄♂️ Beach Activities and Attractions
Family Attractions: Lively promenade with amusement arcades and crazy golf. Fantasy Island theme park in Ingoldmells for thrilling rides. Live entertainment and candy floss for all ages. Traditional seaside fun for generations of visitors. Pleasure Beach Skegness offers classic fairground rides and games. Perfect for a fun-filled family day out. Visit early evening to avoid crowds and win extra prizes.
Natural Wonders: Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve south of Skegness. Unspoiled coastline with sandy beaches, salt marshes, and lagoons. Haven for wildlife, including rare birds like little terns. Peaceful escape from the bustling resort towns. Chapel Six Marshes offers scenic walks through Lincolnshire countryside. North Sea Observatory provides insights into marine life and coastal history. Perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Beach Days: Vast expanse of Skegness Central Beach for sandcastles and sun. Hidden gems like secluded Moggs Eye for a quiet retreat. Pack a picnic and spend the day swimming and playing beach games. Sutton-on-Sea and Mablethorpe offer a variety of beaches to explore. Plenty of space for sunbathing, relaxing, and enjoying the sea air. Many beaches offer free parking and access for a budget-friendly outing. Perfect for a classic British seaside holiday.
Seaside Treats: Charming seaside towns and villages along the Lincolnshire coast. Sutton-on-Sea for a quiet stroll along the promenade. Mablethorpe offers shops, cafes, and restaurants to suit all tastes. Sample traditional fish and chips with a view of the sea. Indulge in ice cream and candy floss for a sweet treat. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the British seaside. Perfect for a nostalgic and delicious experience.
Water Sports and Activities: Many beaches offer opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. Skegness Water Leisure Park for kayaking, paddle boarding, and aqua park fun. Mablethorpe and Sutton-on-Sea for calmer waters and beach activities. Kite surfing and wind surfing popular along the coast. Lessons and equipment rental available for beginners. Perfect for a thrilling and active beach day. Always check safety conditions and lifeguard presence before participating.
⛱️ Beach Facilities and Amenities
Public Toilets and Showers: Clean and well-maintained facilities at main beaches. Separate male, female, and accessible toilets available. Showers to rinse off sand and saltwater. Baby changing rooms for families with infants. Some beaches have changing rooms and lockers. Facilities regularly cleaned and stocked with essentials. Look for signs or ask lifeguards for locations.
Family-Friendly Amenities: Baby changing rooms at larger beaches like Skegness Central. Lost child centers to reunite separated family members. Lifeguard cover during summer months for added safety. First aid points and defibrillators in case of emergencies. Accessibility ramps and beach wheelchairs for those with limited mobility. Food and drink kiosks offering kid-friendly options. Plenty of space for pushchairs and strollers on promenades.
Beach Huts and Chalets: Colorful beach huts and chalets available for hire. Perfect for storing belongings and providing a base for the day. Some offer electricity and cooking facilities for longer stays. Vintage charm and nostalgia at beaches like Sutton-on-Sea. Ideal for families or groups seeking more privacy. Rentals available daily, weekly, or for the whole season. Book in advance to secure your preferred location.
Deckchairs and Sunbeds: Deckchairs and sunbeds available for hire at many beaches. Perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. Rentals typically available by the hour or day. Some beaches offer pre-booking for peak times. Ideal for those who want to travel light. Often located near beach huts and cafes for convenience. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Food and Drink Kiosks: Various food and drink options available along the seafront. Traditional fish and chips, a seaside classic. Ice cream and candy floss for sweet treats. Locally-caught seafood and Lincolnshire sausages for regional flavors. Beach cafes offering hot and cold drinks, snacks, and meals. Some beaches have picnic areas and barbecue facilities. Bring your own food and drinks to save money.
🚘 How to Get to Skegness Beaches
By Car: Well-connected by major roads like A52 and A158. Scenic drive through Lincolnshire Wolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Direct access from cities like Nottingham and Lincoln. Plenty of car parks available in Skegness and surrounding areas. Arrive early during peak season to secure parking spots. Perfect for exploring multiple beaches along the coast. Consider carpooling to reduce environmental impact and save on parking fees.
By Train: Regular train services to Skegness from Nottingham, via Grantham and Boston. East Midlands Railway operates main routes to Skegness. Relaxing journey with views of Lincolnshire landscape. Skegness has its own centrally-located train station. Convenient option for those without a car. Book in advance for best ticket prices and seat reservations. Consider off-peak travel for quieter journeys and cheaper fares.
By Bus: Budget-friendly and eco-friendly option for reaching Skegness. Interconnect 59 service runs from Lincoln to Skegness. Stops at coastal villages like Winthorpe, Ingoldmells, and Chapel St. Leonards. Opportunity to admire charming seaside towns en route. Regular services throughout the day. Day and week-long bus passes available for unlimited travel. Ideal for those who enjoy a more leisurely journey.
Getting Around Skegness: Compact town center easily walkable. Many main beaches within strolling distance of center. Regular local bus services to nearby coastal villages and beaches. Stagecoach and InterConnect offer day and week-long bus passes. Perfect for exploring Sutton-on-Sea and Mablethorpe. Taxis available for shorter journeys or late-night travel. Consider renting a bike for eco-friendly exploration.
Boat and Ferry Options: Seasonal boat trips available from Skegness pier. Explore the coastline from a different perspective. Some services to nearby coastal towns for day trips. Fishing charters available for angling enthusiasts. Check local tourist information for current schedules and operators. Book in advance during peak season. Great option for a unique coastal experience.
Scenic Flights (Special Experience): Helicopter and small plane scenic flights available from Skegness. Breathtaking aerial views of the Lincolnshire coastline. Short flights over Skegness and surrounding beaches. Longer tours covering wider areas of Lincolnshire coast. Advance booking essential, weather-dependent. Ideal for special occasions or unique holiday experiences. Provides a memorable perspective of the coastal landscape.
FAQs about Trip to Best Beaches in Skegness ❔
Which beach is best for families in Skegness?
Skegness Central Beach is ideal for families due to its amenities and activities like donkey rides and paddling pools.
Is parking available at Skegness beaches?
Most beaches have nearby parking, but it can get busy during peak season. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Are there lifeguards on Skegness beaches?
Skegness Central Beach has lifeguard cover during peak season. Always check local information for current lifeguard status.
What amenities are available at Skegness beaches?
Most popular beaches offer toilets, cafes, and beach shops. Skegness Central Beach has a wide range of facilities and attractions.
