10 Best Beaches in Liverpool, UK 🇬🇧: Best Beautiful Beaches & Seaside Hotels

Liverpool, known for its rich maritime history and vibrant culture, is also home to some of the best beaches in the UK. While the city itself may not have a coastline, the surrounding area boasts a variety of stunning beaches worth a visit. From the wide, sandy stretches of Formby to the picturesque New Brighton Beach with its iconic lighthouse, there’s a beach for every taste just a short journey from Liverpool Central.

Join us as we discover the surrounding area and explore the must-visit beaches that make Liverpool a surprising coastal destination in the North West of England.

Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Liverpool 💎 :

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa
• 🏨 4-Star: Bliss Hotel Southport
• 🛏️ 3-Star: The New Brighton Hotel
• 💸 Cheap: Breeze Guest House
• 🏢 Apartment: Marine Lake Apartment
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Formby Point and Another Place
• 🏩 For Couples: The Bold Hotel

🌞 Top 10 Best Beaches in Liverpool

1. 🎨 Crosby Beach – Best for Art and Nature Reserve

Home to Antony Gormley’s “Another Place” installation with 100 iron figures. Miles of golden sand perfect for long beach walks. Spectacular views of the Irish Sea and Port of Liverpool. Opportunity to see Burbo Bank Offshore Wind Farm. Popular for photography, especially at sunset. Dog-friendly beach all year round. Accessible via Merseyrail from Liverpool city centre. Best visited at low tide to explore the iron figures safely. Part of Sefton Coastal Path, great for hiking enthusiasts. Nearby amenities include cafes and parking facilities.

Best Hotels Near Crosby Beach 🏨

• Breeze Guest House – This charming guest house is located just a short walk from Crosby Beach, famous for its Antony Gormley statues. It offers comfortable rooms and a hearty breakfast. The guest house is conveniently situated near Blundellsands & Crosby station, making it easy to reach Crosby Beach by train from Liverpool Central.
• Park Lodge Hotel – Situated in Waterloo, this hotel is within walking distance of Crosby Beach and the Antony Gormley statues. It offers comfortable rooms and an on-site restaurant. The hotel’s location provides easy access to both the beach and local amenities, making it a great base for exploring the area north of Liverpool.
• The Prince Alfred – While not directly in Crosby, this hotel in Liverpool offers easy access to Crosby Beach via public transport. It features comfortable rooms and a traditional pub atmosphere. The hotel’s location allows guests to enjoy both the city attractions and the beautiful beaches near Liverpool.

2. 🐿️ Formby Beach – Best for Wildlife and Natural Beauty

Part of National Trust nature reserve with vast sandy beach. Backed by towering sand dunes and pine forests. Home to endangered red squirrel population. Prehistoric footprints visible at low tide. Stunning sunset views across the Irish Sea. Popular for picnics and nature walks. Dog-friendly beach with some seasonal restrictions. Excellent for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons. Asparagus fields nearby, once famous for cultivation. Parking available but fills up quickly on sunny days.

Best Hotels Near Formby Beach 🏨

• Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa – This luxurious resort is located near Formby Beach, one of the best beaches near Liverpool. It offers a golf course, spa facilities, and multiple dining options. The resort’s proximity to Formby Beach and the Formby Red Squirrel Reserve makes it perfect for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.
• Dora Cottage – This cozy cottage offers a home-away-from-home experience near Formby Beach. It features a fully equipped kitchen and garden. The cottage’s location provides easy access to Formby Beach, known for its beautiful sand dunes and pine forests.
• Formby Point and Another Place – These apartments offer a comfortable stay near Formby Beach. They feature modern amenities and are close to local attractions. The property’s location allows guests to easily explore Formby Beach and the surrounding nature reserves.

3. 🎡 New Brighton Beach – Best for Family-Friendly Activities

Long stretch of sandy beach with promenade. Iconic Perch Rock Lighthouse and Fort nearby. Marine Lake perfect for water sports enthusiasts. Variety of cafes, shops, and amusements along the promenade. Home to the UK’s longest lido. Great views of Liverpool skyline and shipping lanes. Popular for kite flying and beach games. Seasonal lifeguard service available. Host to various events and festivals throughout the year. Easy access via public transport from Liverpool city centre.

Best Hotels Near New Brighton Beach 🏨

• The New Brighton Hotel – This hotel is located just steps away from New Brighton Beach, also known as Wallasey Beach. It offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant with sea views. The hotel’s proximity to the beach and New Brighton Lighthouse makes it an ideal base for exploring this popular seaside resort.
• Holland House – Situated near New Brighton Beach, this guest house offers cozy rooms and a friendly atmosphere. It’s within walking distance of the beach and local attractions. The guest house’s location provides easy access to shops and stalls selling beach essentials on most weekends throughout the summer.
• Beech Cottage – This charming cottage offers a comfortable stay near New Brighton Beach. It features a fully equipped kitchen and garden. The cottage’s location allows guests to easily explore New Brighton Beach and other attractions on the Wirral Peninsula.

4. 🏄‍♂️ West Kirby Beach – Best for Water Sports

Marine lake ideal for sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking. Stunning views across the Dee Estuary to North Wales. Opportunity to walk to Hilbre Island at low tide. Beautiful sunsets over the Welsh hills. Popular spot for paddleboarding and kitesurfing. Sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and picnics. Nearby town offers shops and restaurants. Home to West Kirby Sailing Club. Part of Wirral Way, great for cycling and walking. Easily accessible by train from Liverpool.

Best Hotels Near West Kirby Beach 🏨

• Green Lodge Hotel by Marston's Inns – Located in Hoylake, this hotel offers easy access to West Kirby Beach. It features comfortable rooms and an on-site pub serving traditional British fare. The hotel’s proximity to Hoylake Beach and West Kirby Beach makes it a great base for exploring the Wirral coastline.
• The Quadrant Luxury Apartments – These luxury apartments offer a high-end stay near West Kirby Beach. They feature modern amenities and stylish decor. The property’s location provides easy access to both West Kirby Beach and Hoylake Beach, offering guests a choice of beautiful coastal areas to explore.
• Marine Lake Apartment – This apartment offers stunning views of West Kirby’s Marine Lake and is just a short walk from West Kirby Beach. It features modern amenities and a balcony. The apartment’s location allows guests to enjoy both the beach and the unique Marine Lake, perfect for water sports enthusiasts.

5. 🎭 Southport Beach – Best for Victorian Seaside Charm

Vast expanse of sand with historic pier, second longest in the UK. Classic British seaside experience with promenade. Home to Pleasureland amusement park. Charming Lord Street nearby for shopping and dining. Host to various events including Southport Air Show. Popular for horse riding and land yachting. Excellent facilities including toilets and cafes. Seasonal lifeguard service available. Great for wildlife spotting, especially coastal birds. Easy to reach by train from Liverpool city centre.

Best Hotels Near Southport Beach 🏨

• Bliss Hotel Southport – This modern hotel offers panoramic views of Southport Beach and the Marine Lake. It features stylish rooms, a restaurant, and a gym. The hotel’s central location provides easy access to Southport Beach and the town’s famous Lord Street shopping area.
• Lord Street Hotel – Located on Southport’s main shopping street, this hotel is just a short walk from Southport Beach. It offers elegant rooms and a bar. The hotel’s location allows guests to enjoy both the beach and Southport’s Victorian charm.
• Dukes Folly Hotel – This boutique hotel is situated in the heart of Southport, close to the beach and local attractions. It features individually decorated rooms and a cozy bar. The hotel’s central location makes it easy for guests to explore Southport Beach and the town’s many amenities.

6. 🪁 Moreton Beach – Best for Quiet Relaxation

Peaceful alternative to busier Wirral beaches. Beautiful views across Liverpool Bay. Part of North Wirral Coastal Park. Great spot for kite flying and quiet walks. Dog-friendly beach all year round. Popular for birdwatching, especially waders. Nearby Leasowe Lighthouse, the oldest brick-built lighthouse in Britain. Good for fossil hunting at low tide. Circular walk available combining beach and inland routes. Limited facilities, perfect for those seeking tranquility.

Best Hotels Near Moreton Beach 🏨

• The Jug And Bottle – This charming inn is located in Heswall, just a short drive from Moreton Beach. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving traditional British cuisine, and a cozy bar. The hotel’s proximity to the beach and other attractions makes it one of the best places to stay when visiting Liverpool and the Wirral Peninsula.
• Manor Garden Lodge – Situated in the picturesque village of Thornton Hough, this lodge is a great base for exploring the nearby beaches, including Moreton Beach. It features well-appointed rooms, a beautiful garden, and easy access to local attractions. The lodge’s peaceful setting and comfortable accommodations make it a popular choice among visitors to the area.
• Barnston House – This elegant bed and breakfast is located in Heswall, just a short drive from Moreton Beach. It offers luxurious rooms, a delicious breakfast, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The property’s location is ideal for those looking to explore the beaches and other attractions in and around Liverpool.

7. 🏎️ Ainsdale Beach – Best for Adventure Sports

Known for impressive sand dunes and excellent facilities. Home to Ainsdale Discovery Centre for environmental education. Popular spot for kite buggying and land yachting. Blue Flag status for cleanliness and water quality. Part of Sefton Coast, a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Great for beach fishing and bait digging. Seasonal zoning for various activities including naturism. Home to natterjack toads, a protected species. Excellent for stargazing due to dark skies. Parking available directly on the beach (tide dependent).

Best Hotels Near Ainsdale Beach 🏨

• The Rocklands – This family-run guesthouse is located in Southport, just a short distance from Ainsdale Beach. It offers comfortable rooms, a hearty breakfast, and a friendly atmosphere. The hotel’s location is perfect for those looking to enjoy the wide beach and the Ainsdale Discovery Center, which offers various outdoor pursuits thanks to the Ainsdale Sandhills Local Nature Reserve.
• The Shippon Barn – Situated in the charming town of Formby, this barn conversion offers a unique and comfortable stay near Ainsdale Beach. It features well-appointed rooms, a beautiful garden, and easy access to local attractions. Formby has plenty of space for visitors to enjoy, with another beach just a short distance away.
• Stunning 2 Bedroom Apartment – While not directly near Ainsdale Beach, this modern apartment in Wallasey offers a comfortable base for exploring the beaches and attractions around Liverpool. It features stylish decor, a fully equipped kitchen, and easy access to public transportation.

8. 🏞️ Thurstaston Beach – Best for Scenic Views and Geology

Part of Wirral Country Park with pebble and sand beach. Backed by clay cliffs, popular among geologists. Stunning views across the Dee Estuary. Great for fossil hunting along the beach. Nearby Wirral Way for cycling and walking. Popular picnic spot with designated areas. Dog-friendly beach all year round. Good for birdwatching, especially during migration. Site of a former Royal Air Force base. Visitor centre nearby with exhibits on local history and nature.

Best Hotels Near Thurstaston Beach 🏨

• The Jug and Bottle – This charming inn is located in Heswall, just a short drive from Thurstaston Beach, one of the must-visit places in the Wirral Peninsula. It offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving traditional British cuisine. The inn’s proximity to the beach and other local attractions makes it a great base for exploring the area.
• Manor Garden Lodge – Situated in the heart of Wirral, this lodge offers easy access to Thurstaston Beach, a beautiful stretch of beach popular with locals and visitors alike. It features spacious rooms and a garden, providing a peaceful retreat after a day at the beach. The lodge’s location allows guests to explore the many attractions of the Wirral Peninsula.
• Barnston House – This elegant bed and breakfast is located in Heswall, just a short drive from Thurstaston Beach. It offers luxurious rooms and a delightful garden, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring the Wirral coastline. The property’s location provides easy access to the beach and other local points of interest.

9. 🐕 Wallasey Beach – Best for Dog Walkers

Wide, sandy beach also known as “The Dips”. Beautiful views of Liverpool Bay. Less crowded than neighboring New Brighton. Dog-friendly all year round. Great for beach games and picnics. Beautiful coastal walks along North Wirral Coastal Park. Popular for horse riding and kite flying. Good spot for watching ships entering and leaving the Mersey. Close to Harrison Drive with various facilities. Easy access via public transport from Liverpool.

Best Hotels Near Wallasey Beach 🏨

• The Rocklands – This beachfront guesthouse is located in New Brighton, just steps away from Wallasey Beach. It offers stunning sea views and comfortable rooms, making it the perfect place to stay for beach lovers. The guesthouse is just 7 miles from Liverpool city center, easily accessible by the local line from Liverpool Central station.
• The Shippon Barn – This unique barn conversion is situated in Wallasey, a short distance from the beautiful Wallasey Beach. It offers a comfortable and quirky stay, with easy access to the beach and other local attractions. The property’s location provides a perfect base for exploring the Wirral coastline and its many beaches.
• Stunning 2 Bedroom Apartment in Wallasey – These modern apartments are located in Wallasey, just a short walk from the beach. They offer a home-away-from-home experience, with fully equipped kitchens and comfortable living spaces. The apartments’ proximity to Wallasey Beach and easy access to Liverpool make them ideal for families or groups looking to enjoy the coast and city.

10. 🔍 Blundellsands Beach – Best for Off-the-Beaten-Path Exploration

Continuation of Crosby Beach, often overlooked. Extension of Antony Gormley’s “Another Place” installation. Beautiful sand dunes for exploration. Quieter alternative to Crosby Beach. Great for photography, especially at sunset. Popular for beach walks and running. Dog-friendly beach all year round. Good spot for birdwatching, especially waders. Views of passing ships and Burbo Bank Wind Farm. Easy access from Blundellsands & Crosby station.

Best Hotels Near Blundellsands Beach 🏨

• The Liverpool Pod – While not directly next to the beach, this unique pod hotel in Liverpool offers a convenient base for exploring the nearby coastline, including Blundellsands Beach. It features compact, modern pods with all the essentials for a comfortable stay. The hotel’s central location allows easy access to the beaches in and around Liverpool, which are open year-round.
• The Glebe – This charming guesthouse is located in Crosby, just a short distance from Blundellsands Beach. It offers comfortable rooms and a delightful garden, providing a peaceful retreat near the coast. The guesthouse’s location allows guests to easily explore the local beaches and attractions, such as the famous “Another Place” sculpture installation by Antony Gormley.
• Tea in Liverpool Tours English Accommodation – This unique accommodation in Liverpool offers a comfortable stay with a focus on English culture and traditions. While not directly on the beach, it provides a convenient base for exploring the nearby coastline, including Blundellsands Beach, which is just a short train ride away.

🌊 Beach Activities and Attractions

🏄‍♂️ Water Sports: West Kirby Beach perfect for windsurfing and sailing. New Brighton Beach great for paddleboarding and kayaking. Ainsdale Beach ideal for kitesurfing and land yachting. Lessons available at West Kirby Sailing Club for all levels. Equipment rentals available at most popular beaches. Best conditions typically from April to September.

🚶‍♂️ Coastal Walks: Wirral Coastal Path and Sefton Coastal Path offer beautiful routes. Hoylake to West Kirby walk features views of Welsh hills. Crosby to Formby passes “Another Place” installation. New Brighton to Meols showcases lighthouse and Perch Rock Fort. Always check tide times before setting out on coastal walks.

🎨 Beach Art and Culture: Crosby Beach home to Antony Gormley’s “Another Place”. Black Pearl driftwood pirate ship at New Brighton Beach. Perch Rock Fort next to New Brighton Beach. Ainsdale Discovery Centre great for local wildlife education. Many attractions free to visit, perfect for budget-friendly outings.

🐚 Beachcombing and Nature Watching: Fossil hunting popular at Thurstaston Beach. Birdwatching excellent at Ainsdale Beach. Prehistoric footprints visible at low tide on Formby Beach. Natterjack toads found at Ainsdale, a rare species in England. Seal spotting possible at Hilbre Island. Binoculars recommended for wildlife enthusiasts.

🚌 How to Get to Liverpool’s Beaches

🚂 Public Transportation: Merseyrail network connects to many popular beaches. Northern Line serves Crosby, Formby, and Ainsdale beaches. Wirral Line reaches West Kirby, Hoylake, and New Brighton beaches. Local buses connect to beaches not directly on train lines. Saveaway ticket offers unlimited travel on trains and buses. Frequent services run throughout the day, especially in summer.

🚗 Driving: Most beaches have parking facilities available. Crosby Beach is 20 minutes drive from Liverpool city centre. Formby Beach is 45 minutes away, arrive early to secure parking. New Brighton Beach and West Kirby Beach both around 20-30 minutes drive. Consider carpooling to reduce parking pressure on busy days. Some beaches offer park and ride services during peak season.

🚲 Cycling: Wirral Peninsula offers beautiful cycling routes to beaches. Liverpool to New Brighton is a flat 10-mile ride along the Mersey. The Wirral Way is a 12-mile trail passing several beaches. Sefton Coastal Path connects Crosby, Formby, and Ainsdale beaches. Many train stations offer bike hire services. Cycling allows exploration of areas inaccessible by car.

⛴️ Ferry Across the Mersey: Famous ferry ride offers scenic start to beach trips. Connects Liverpool to Wirral Peninsula beaches. Runs regularly from Pier Head in Liverpool. Offers great views of Liverpool’s waterfront. Bicycles allowed on board for further exploration. Special summer evening cruises available for sunset views.

🏖️ Getting to Specific Beaches: Crosby Beach: Northern Line to Blundellsands & Crosby station. Formby Beach: Northern Line to Freshfield, then 15-minute walk. New Brighton Beach: Wirral Line to New Brighton station. Ainsdale Beach: Northern Line to Ainsdale, short walk follows. West Kirby Beach: Wirral Line to West Kirby, 5-minute walk. Talacre Beach in North Wales about an hour’s drive from Liverpool.

🌟 Beach Facilities and Amenities

🍽️ Food and Drink: Plenty of options for snacks and meals at Liverpool’s beaches. The Good Catch in New Brighton serves excellent fish and chips. Waterfields in West Kirby offers delicious ice cream. The Hive in Hoylake provides artisan coffee and cakes. Ainsdale Discovery Centre is perfect for picnic lunches. Limited food options near Formby Beach, so stock up in town.

♿ Accessibility: Many beaches strive to be accessible for all visitors. New Brighton Beach has dedicated wheelchair access ramp to the sand. Crosby Beach features a paved promenade suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Beach wheelchairs available for rent at West Kirby Beach. Accessible toilets present at most major beaches. Designated blue badge parking spaces provided.

🎡 Other Amenities: Unique amenities make each beach stand out. New Brighton Beach has a large playground perfect for families. Colorful beach huts available for rent at West Kirby Beach. BBQ areas provided at Ainsdale Beach. Outdoor showers available at Formby Beach. West Kirby Beach features a marine lake for water sports.

🛍️ Shops and Rentals: Many beaches have shops selling beach essentials. New Brighton promenade features various shops for beach toys, sunscreen, etc. Deckchair and windbreak rentals available at West Kirby Beach. Kayak and paddleboard rentals offered at New Brighton Marine Lake. Kite buggy rentals provided at Ainsdale Beach. Don’t forget to bring your own equipment for beach BBQs.

📅 Best Time to Visit Liverpool’s Beaches

1. ☀️ Summer Season (June to August)

Peak season with warm, sunny weather perfect for beach activities. Bustling atmosphere with families and water sports enthusiasts. Arrive early to secure a good spot on popular beaches. Book beach hut rentals or deckchairs in advance. Check local event calendars for summer festivals and activities. Head to secluded spots like Meols Beach for a quieter experience.

2. 🍂 Shoulder Season (May and September)

Pleasant weather for beach walks and even swimming. Thinner crowds compared to peak summer months. More space to spread out on the sand. Easier parking at beaches like Crosby and Ainsdale. Better chances of spotting wildlife like seals and rare birds. More relaxed atmosphere in beach towns and villages. Lower rates for beach facilities and rentals.

3. ❄️ Off-Season (October to April)

Beaches take on a new character during the off-season. Windswept walks along Crosby shoreline with Antony Gormley’s statues. Cozy cafes serving hot chocolate and homemade cakes. Dramatic skies and crashing waves along the Wirral Peninsula. Quieter streets and a more local feel in beach towns. Perfect for a beach getaway with your dog.

4. 🏊‍♀️ Best Time for Specific Beach Activities

Swimming and sunbathing best in July and August for warmest temperatures. Water sports ideal from May to September for consistent winds and warmer water. Beach walking enjoyable year-round, especially beautiful in autumn and winter. Wildlife watching peaks in spring and autumn for bird migrations, summer for seals. Photography best early morning or late afternoon year-round for optimal light.

5. 🌊 Year-Round Beach Appeal

Each season brings unique character to Liverpool’s beaches. Summer offers buzzing energy and lively atmosphere. Shoulder season provides a balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Winter showcases the windswept beauty and dramatic coastal landscapes. Liverpool’s coastal gems have something to offer in every season. Pack your sense of adventure and discover the year-round appeal.

FAQs about Trip to Best Beaches around Liverpool ❔

Is Liverpool worth visiting?

Yes, Liverpool is definitely worth visiting. It offers a diverse selection of cuisine, thriving nightlife, fascinating historical attractions, iconic music scene, and plenty of exciting events throughout the year.

Is Liverpool a coastal town?

Yes, Liverpool is a coastal city located on the eastern side of the Mersey Estuary, adjacent to the Irish Sea. It has a rich maritime history as a major port city.

Is it safe to swim at Liverpool beaches?

Generally yes, but water quality varies. Many beaches like Formby and Crosby have good water quality ratings, but it’s best to check current conditions before swimming.

Is Liverpool good for surfing?

No, Liverpool itself is not known for surfing. The nearest surfing spots mentioned are quite far from Liverpool, such as Anglesey (over 70 miles away) and Blackpool (over 50 miles away). The Mersey Estuary and nearby coastline do not seem to provide ideal surfing conditions.