While Birmingham may be landlocked, city life doesn’t mean you have to miss out on sun, sand, and surf. Surprisingly, there are beautiful beaches near Birmingham that offer a perfect escape from the urban hustle. Whether you’re looking for a seaside award-winning stretch of coast, a spot for surfing, or a family-friendly play area, this guide to the best beaches within a two-hour drive will help you find your ideal seaside getaway.
So pack your sunscreen and beach towels, and get ready to explore some of the best beaches the UK has to offer, all just a short journey from the heart of the Midlands. Let’s dive into the top seaside destinations that prove some of the most beautiful beaches are closer to Birmingham than you might think!
Our Pick of the Best Hotels near Birmingham 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Tilman
- 🏨 4-Star: Lauriston Hotel
- 🛏️ 3-Star: The Glengower
- 💸 Cheap: Gabriel Guesthouse
- 🏢 Apartment: Beach Condos
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Gwyllt Cottages
- 🏩 For Couples: Escape Boutique B&B
🌞 Top 10 Best Beaches Near Birmingham, UK
1. 🌊 Weston-super-Mare Beach – Best for Traditional Seaside Fun
Less than two hours from Birmingham by car or train. Almost two miles of sandy shores to enjoy. Flat and level promenade runs alongside the beach. Iconic Grand Pier offers classic amusement park entertainment. Marine Lake provides sea-water bathing opportunities. Own sandy beach when the tide is out. Perfect for traditional seaside activities like building sandcastles. Variety of seafront restaurants and cafes available. Family-friendly with plenty of attractions for all ages. Easily accessible for a day trip or weekend getaway from Birmingham.
Best Hotels Near Weston-super-Mare Beach 🏨
- Queenswood Hotel – This charming hotel is located just a short walk from Weston-super-Mare Beach, one of the best beaches in the area. It offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine. The hotel’s proximity to the beach and Grand Pier makes it an ideal base for exploring this popular seaside town, which is about two hours away from Birmingham by car.
- The Lauriston Hotel – Situated next to the beach, this hotel offers stunning sea views and easy access to Weston-super-Mare’s attractions. It features a restaurant and bar with panoramic views of the coastline. The hotel’s location makes it perfect for enjoying the beach and the town’s events throughout the summer.
- Beach Condos – These modern apartments are located right on the beachfront, offering direct access to Weston-super-Mare Beach. They feature fully equipped kitchens and balconies with sea views. The apartments’ prime location allows guests to easily enjoy the beach and nearby attractions like the Grand Pier and Marine Lake.
2. 🏖️ Barry Island (Whitmore Bay) – Best for TV Show Fans and Family Entertainment
Made famous by TV show “Gavin & Stacey”, about 2.5 hours from Birmingham. Wide, sandy beach perfect for families and bucket-and-spade days. Colorful beach huts along the promenade for photo opportunities. Amusement arcades for indoor entertainment. Fresh fish and chips available on the seafront. Clean, safe waters ideal for swimming. Barry Island Pleasure Park with rides and attractions. Coastal path for scenic walks. Whitmore Bay offers sheltered sunbathing spots. Regular events and fairs during summer months.
Best Hotels Near Barry Island (Whitmore Bay) 🏨
- Judah Suites Apartment by Koya – This modern apartment is located in Barry, just a short drive from Barry Island and its famous Whitmore Bay. It offers comfortable accommodation with a fully equipped kitchen. The apartment’s location provides easy access to the beach and Barry Island Pleasure Park.
- Gail's Guest House – This cozy guest house is situated in Barry, a short distance from Barry Island and Whitmore Bay. It offers comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere. The guest house’s location allows visitors to easily explore Barry Island’s attractions and enjoy its beautiful beach.
- Goodsheds by Urban Space – These unique apartments are located in a converted railway building in Barry, close to Barry Island and Whitmore Bay. They offer stylish accommodation with modern amenities. The apartments’ proximity to the beach and Barry’s marina makes them an excellent choice for those looking to explore the area.
3. ⛰️ Barmouth Beach – Best for Scenic Beauty and Water Sports
Three-hour drive from Birmingham, offering stunning views of Cardigan Bay. Wide, sandy beach backed by dramatic mountains of Snowdonia. Picturesque harbour with colorful boats and fresh seafood. Land train running along the promenade for easy exploration. Amusement arcades for classic seaside fun. Possibility of spotting dolphins in the bay. Gateway to Snowdonia National Park for hiking enthusiasts. Blue Flag status for cleanliness and water quality. Popular for water sports including windsurfing and kayaking. Scenic railway journey option from Birmingham New Street station.
Best Hotels Near Barmouth Beach 🏨
- The Tilman – This hotel is located in the heart of Barmouth, just a short walk from the beach. It offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local specialties. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore Barmouth’s attractions and enjoy its beautiful beach, which has received a Seaside Award.
- The Lion Court Accommodation - The Fanny Talbot – These apartments are situated in Barmouth, close to the beach and town center. They offer self-catering accommodation with modern amenities. The apartments’ location provides easy access to Barmouth Beach and the town’s shops and restaurants.
- The Royal Hotel – This historic hotel is located near Barmouth Beach, offering stunning views of the Mawddach Estuary. It features comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving Welsh cuisine. The hotel’s proximity to the beach and Barmouth’s attractions makes it an ideal base for exploring this picturesque coastal town.
4. 🎢 Blackpool Beach – Best for Amusement Parks and Attractions
About three-hour drive from Birmingham, famous for its Golden Mile. Seven miles of sandy beach to explore and enjoy. Blackpool Pleasure Beach, one of UK’s top amusement parks nearby. Iconic Blackpool Tower offering panoramic views. Three piers with various entertainment options. Home to the annual Blackpool Illuminations light festival. Excellent fish and chips shops along the promenade. Traditional donkey rides on the beach. Tram service along the seafront for easy transportation. Regular events and shows throughout the year.
Best Hotels Near Blackpool Beach 🏨
- Boulevard Hotel – This modern hotel is located on Blackpool’s famous South Promenade, offering easy access to the beach. It features stylish rooms, a restaurant, and a bar with sea views. The hotel’s location next to Blackpool Pleasure Beach makes it perfect for those looking to enjoy the beach and Blackpool’s many attractions.
- Velvet Coaster Apartments – These apartments are situated near Blackpool’s South Beach, offering comfortable self-catering accommodation. They feature modern amenities and are close to popular attractions. The apartments’ location provides easy access to the beach and Blackpool’s famous promenade.
- The Marsden Hotel – This hotel is located near Blackpool’s North Beach, offering comfortable rooms and a restaurant. It’s situated close to popular attractions like Blackpool Tower and the Winter Gardens. The hotel’s proximity to the beach and town center makes it an excellent base for exploring Blackpool.
5. 🐚 Llanddwyn Beach – Best for Nature Lovers and Secluded Getaways
Secluded beach on Anglesey island. Part of Newborough Warren National Nature Reserve. Stunning views of Snowdonia and Lleyn Peninsula. Lighthouse and pilots’ cottages add to scenic beauty. Rich in wildlife and bird watching opportunities. Tidal island accessible at low tide. Perfect for peaceful walks and photography. Crystal clear waters ideal for swimming. Nearby forest trails for cycling and hiking.
Best Hotels Near Llanddwyn Beach 🏨
- Taldrwst – This charming cottage is located near Newborough Forest, a short drive from Llanddwyn Beach. It offers comfortable accommodation in a peaceful setting. The cottage’s location provides easy access to Llanddwyn Beach and Newborough Warren Nature Reserve, making it perfect for nature lovers.
- Gwyllt Cottages – These cottages are situated in Dwyran, close to Llanddwyn Beach and Newborough Forest. They offer self-catering accommodation in a tranquil setting. The cottages’ location makes them an ideal base for exploring Anglesey’s beautiful coastline and Llanddwyn Island.
- White Mermaid Cottage – This cozy cottage is located in Newborough, near Llanddwyn Beach. It offers comfortable accommodation with modern amenities. The cottage’s proximity to Llanddwyn Beach and Newborough Forest makes it perfect for those looking to explore one of the most beautiful beaches in Wales.
6. 🏄♂️ Burnham-on-Sea Beach – Best for Kite Surfing and Unique Lighthouses
Seven miles of sandy beach with smallest pier in Britain. Excellent for families with safe swimming areas. Famous lighthouse on stilts in the sea. Traditional seaside resort atmosphere. Popular for kite surfing and other water sports. Beautiful sunsets over Bridgwater Bay. Donkey rides available during summer months. Nearby animal farm park for family fun. Seasonal lifeguard service for safe swimming.
Best Hotels Near Burnham-on-Sea Beach 🏨
- Dunstan House – This charming hotel is located just a short walk from Burnham-on-Sea Beach, offering comfortable rooms and a cozy atmosphere. It features a restaurant serving local cuisine and is close to the town’s attractions. The hotel’s proximity to the beach makes it an ideal base for exploring the Somerset coast.
- Knights Rest – Situated near Burnham-on-Sea Beach, this guesthouse offers a homely atmosphere and comfortable rooms. It’s within walking distance of the town center and provides easy access to the beach. The guesthouse’s location makes it perfect for those looking to enjoy both the beach and local amenities.
- Thornbury Guest House – This guest house is located close to Burnham-on-Sea Beach, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors. It features well-appointed rooms and a garden area for relaxation. The guest house’s proximity to the beach and town center provides guests with a convenient base for their coastal holiday.
7. 🌿 Borth Beach – Best for Unspoiled Coastal Village Experience
Long, sandy beach backed by a pebble bank and cliffs. Unique “submerged forest” visible at low tide. Borth Animalarium, a small zoo with domestic and exotic animals. Ynyslas Nature Reserve offers sand dunes and wildlife spotting. Cors Fochno, a raised peat bog with rare plant species. Quaint village with a few shops, pubs, and cafes. Ideal for a peaceful, nature-focused beach escape. Accessible by train from Birmingham with a change at Dovey Junction. Perfect for those seeking an unspoiled, off-the-beaten-path beach experience.
Best Hotels Near Borth Beach 🏨
- Bay View Lodge - Brynowen – This lodge offers stunning views of Cardigan Bay and is just a short distance from Borth Beach. It features comfortable accommodations and is part of a holiday park with various amenities. The lodge’s location provides easy access to the beach and surrounding natural beauty.
- Dyfed 23 – Located near Borth Beach, this holiday home offers a comfortable stay with modern amenities. It’s situated in a quiet area, perfect for a relaxing beach getaway. The property’s proximity to the beach and local attractions makes it an excellent choice for families or groups.
- Idyllic Luxurious Seaside Flat – This luxurious apartment is situated close to Borth Beach, offering beautiful sea views and modern comforts. It features a well-equipped kitchen and stylish decor throughout. The apartment’s location provides easy access to the beach and local amenities.
8. 🌅 Aberystwyth Beach – Best for Victorian Charm and Cultural Events
Sand and shingle beach backed by charming promenade and historic buildings. Cliff railway offering panoramic views of Cardigan Bay. Ruins of Aberystwyth Castle for history enthusiasts. National Library of Wales nearby for cultural exploration. Excellent surfing conditions for water sports enthusiasts. Victorian pier with traditional amusements. Colorful beach huts adding to seaside charm. Regular farmers’ markets in town for local produce. University town atmosphere with vibrant cafes and bars. Beautiful sunsets over the Irish Sea.
Best Hotels Near Aberystwyth Beach 🏨
- Maes Bach – This guesthouse is located near Aberystwyth Beach, offering comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere. It’s within walking distance of the town center and provides easy access to the beach. The guesthouse’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring Aberystwyth and its surroundings.
- Bodalwyn Guest House – Situated close to Aberystwyth Beach, this guest house offers a cozy stay with well-appointed rooms. It’s located in a quiet area but still within easy reach of the town center and beach. The guest house’s proximity to local attractions makes it a great choice for visitors to Aberystwyth.
- The Glengower – This hotel is located on Aberystwyth’s promenade, offering stunning sea views and direct access to the beach. It features a restaurant and bar with panoramic views of Cardigan Bay. The hotel’s prime location makes it perfect for those looking to enjoy the beach and explore Aberystwyth’s attractions.
9. 🏰 Llandudno Beach – Best for Victorian Elegance and Themed Attractions
Known as the “Queen of Welsh Resorts”, about 3 hours from Birmingham. Two beaches: North Shore and West Shore for variety. Longest pier in Wales with stunning views and attractions. Great Orme headland accessible by tram or cable car. Alice in Wonderland trail throughout the town. Traditional Punch and Judy shows on the beach. Victorian architecture along the promenade. Excellent shopping in the town center. Regular boat trips available from the pier. Home to the annual Llandudno Air Show.
Best Hotels Near Llandudno Beach 🏨
- Escape Boutique B&B – This stylish boutique B&B is located near Llandudno Beach, offering uniquely decorated rooms and a contemporary atmosphere. It’s within walking distance of the beach and town center. The B&B’s attention to detail and excellent location make it a popular choice for visitors to Llandudno.
- Belmont Llandudno – Situated close to Llandudno Beach, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and beautiful sea views. It features a restaurant serving local cuisine and is ideally located for exploring the town. The hotel’s proximity to the beach and local attractions makes it an excellent base for a seaside holiday.
- Headlands Hotel – This hotel is perched on Llandudno’s Great Orme, offering panoramic views of the bay and easy access to the beach. It features comfortable rooms and a restaurant with stunning vistas. The hotel’s unique location provides guests with a memorable stay and easy access to Llandudno’s attractions.
10. 🐠 Rhyl Beach – Best for Family-Friendly Attractions and Beach Games
About 2.5 hours from Birmingham, undergoing significant regeneration. Long, sandy beach ideal for walks and sunbathing. New SC2 water park and adventure center on the seafront. Rhyl Miniature Railway, UK’s oldest miniature line still operating. Drift Park with water features and gardens. Pavilion Theatre hosting shows and events year-round. Rhyl Harbour and Marine Lake for water activities. New restaurants and cafes along the renovated promenade. Kitesurfing and windsurfing popular on windy days. Seaquarium for marine life exploration.
Best Hotels Near Rhyl Beach 🏨
- Plum Tree Cottage – This charming cottage is located near Rhyl Beach, offering a cozy and comfortable stay for visitors. It features a well-equipped kitchen and a garden area. The cottage’s proximity to the beach and local attractions makes it an ideal choice for families or couples.
- Melbourne Guest House – Situated close to Rhyl Beach, this guest house offers comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere. It’s within walking distance of the beach and town center. The guest house’s location provides easy access to Rhyl’s attractions and the beautiful North Wales coastline.
- Gabriel Guesthouse – This guesthouse is located near Rhyl Beach, offering a comfortable stay with well-appointed rooms. It’s close to the town center and provides easy access to the beach and local amenities. The guesthouse’s convenient location makes it an excellent base for exploring Rhyl and the surrounding area.
🏄♂️ Beach Activities and Attractions
🏄♂️ Water Sports: Various water sports available at different beaches near Birmingham. Surfing popular at Croyde Bay, known for excellent waves. Kitesurfing at Camber Sands with miles of sand and consistent winds. Paddleboarding at Sandbanks Beach, perfect for beginners. Jet skiing available at Bournemouth for adrenaline seekers.
🏖️ Beach Games and Family Fun: Plenty of activities for families and friends on the soft sand. Beach volleyball popular on Weston-super-Mare’s main beach. Sandcastle building competitions great for kids with buckets and spades. Kite flying ideal on wide open stretches of Camber Sands. Rock pooling at low tide in Croyde Bay for nature enthusiasts.
🚶♀️ Coastal Walks and Nature Trails: UK coastline offers stunning walking trails with breathtaking views. South West Coast Path stretches 630 miles along Somerset coast and beyond. Wirral Way in Wirral Country Park provides beautiful peninsula views. Norfolk Coast Path passes through some of UK’s most unspoilt beaches. Many coastal walks free, offering budget-friendly experiences.
🎡 Seaside Attractions and Entertainment: Many beach towns offer attractions beyond the sand and sea. Grand Pier at Weston-super-Mare provides classic seaside entertainment. Blackpool Pleasure Beach home to the famous Golden Mile. SeaLife Centre in Great Yarmouth perfect for rainy days. Jurassic Coast in Dorset ideal for fossil hunting and geological wonders.
🍽️ Beachside Dining and Refreshments: Coastal towns offer variety of seaside treats and dining experiences. Fresh seafood available at Crab House Café in Wyke Regis. Traditional fish and chips popular on Blackpool’s North Pier. Delicious ice cream from Minghella’s on the Isle of Wight. Authentic Cornish pasties from Ann’s Pasties in The Lizard, Cornwall.
🚘 How to Get to the Beaches from Birmingham
🚗 By Car: Driving offers flexibility to visit multiple beaches and carry essentials. Weston-super-Mare reachable in about 2 hours via the M5. Barmouth accessible in around 3 hours, perfect for weekend trips. Blackpool approximately 2.5 hours away via the M6. Early morning departures recommended to beat traffic, especially in summer.
🚂 By Train: Many seaside towns well-connected to Birmingham by rail. Direct trains to Weston-super-Mare from Birmingham New Street, journey about 2.5 hours. Scenic route to Aberystwyth through Welsh countryside, around 3 hours. Llandudno accessible with a change at Crewe, total journey about 3 hours. Advance booking recommended for best deals.
🚌 By Coach: Coaches offer economical way to reach many coastal destinations. National Express operates routes to several seaside towns. Journeys often longer than train or car, but more affordable. Overnight trips can maximize beach time. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers and groups.
🌙 Day Trips vs. Longer Stays: Many beaches suitable for day trips, like Bosworth Water Park (1 hour away). Cotswold Country Park and Beach about 1.5 hours drive for quick visits. Longer stays recommended for places like Barmouth or Llandudno. Overnight stays allow full immersion in seaside town atmosphere. Consider mix of day trips and weekend getaways for variety.
📅 Best Time to Visit Beaches Near Birmingham
1. ☀️ Summer Season (June to August)
Peak season with warm, sunny weather perfect for beach activities. Lively atmosphere with locals and tourists enjoying the coastline. Warmest sea temperatures ideal for swimming and paddling. All amenities and attractions open, from ice cream stands to water sports rentals. Popular beaches like Weston-super-Mare can get crowded, especially on weekends.
2. 🍂 Shoulder Season (May and September)
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds and lower prices. More space on beautiful beaches like Barmouth or Thurstaston Beach. Comfortable temperatures for exploring coastal towns and country parks. Perfect conditions for coastal walks and picnics. Better deals on accommodations and restaurants in seaside towns.
3. ❄️ Off-Season (October to April)
Unique experience with deserted beaches perfect for long walks and beachcombing. Dramatic seascapes and excellent photo opportunities. Cozy seaside towns with a more authentic local vibe. Winter surfing available for the adventurous (wetsuit required!). Crisp, clear days ideal for coastal hikes in places like the Wirral Country Park.
4. 🏄♂️ Best Time for Specific Beach Activities
Swimming and sunbathing best from late June to early September. Water sports ideal from May to October for consistent winds. Coastal walks most enjoyable in April-June and September-October. Beach picnics great from May to September, with spring and early autumn options. Surfing available year-round, with best waves often in autumn and winter.
🗺️ Day Trips vs. Longer Stays
🚗 Day Trips: Perfect for quick doses of fresh sea air and golden sand. Bosworth Water Park offers inland beach just 30 minutes from Birmingham. Weston-super-Mare reachable in about two hours, one of the nearest beaches. Blackpool, famous for its Golden Mile, accessible in about 2.5 hours. Early departure recommended to beat traffic and maximize beach time.
🏖️ Weekend Getaways: Ideal for truly unwinding and exploring some of UK’s best beaches. Llandudno offers eight beaches to choose from, a seaside paradise. Barmouth boasts one of the longest beaches in the UK. Southport provides classic seaside resort experience with beautiful stretch of sand. Accommodation slightly away from beachfront often offers better deals.
🌊 Longer Stays: Week-long stays allow full immersion in coastal lifestyle. Wirral Peninsula great for exploring diverse beaches and country park. Devon offers multiple seaside towns and top UK surfing spots. Cornwall ideal for discovering hidden coves and beautiful beaches. Renting a car recommended for easy exploration of different coastal areas.
🎡 Balancing Beach Time and Attractions: Mix beach time with coastal attractions for varied experiences. Blackpool Pleasure Beach offers thrilling amusement park by the sea. Llandudno Pier provides one of UK’s longest seaside strolls. Weston-super-Mare Grand Pier great for all-age entertainment. Southport Marine Lake ideal for watersports enthusiasts.
🌞 Making the Most of Your Trip: Check tide times for optimal beach visits, especially on Wirral Peninsula. Pack picnics to save money and enjoy lunch with seaside views. Explore promenades for lovely walks and great coastal vistas. Try local culinary specialties unique to each coastal area. Consider shoulder season visits for pleasant weather with fewer crowds.
FAQs about Trip to Best Beaches near Birmingham, UK ❔
Is Birmingham beaches worth visiting?
Yes, there are several beaches within a few hours’ drive from Birmingham that are worth visiting, offering sandy shores, seaside towns, and coastal attractions.
Are beaches near Birmingham swimmable?
Yes, many of the beaches near Birmingham are swimmable. For example, Woolacombe Beach in Devon (about 3-4 hours away) is popular for swimming and has lifeguards during summer months.
How far is Birmingham from the beaches?
The nearest beach to Birmingham is Weston-super-Mare, which is about 105 miles away and takes around 1 hour 50 minutes to reach by car.
What are the best tourist attractions and places to visit in Birmingham?
Some of the top attractions in Birmingham include:
- Cadbury World
- Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
- National SEA LIFE Centre
- Birmingham Botanical Gardens
- Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
