The charming county of Essex, known for its captivating coastline, is calling out to you. It’s time to swap the bustling city life for a dose of vitamin sea, as we embark on a journey to discover the best beaches in Essex.
From serene, sandy stretches to vibrant, family-friendly resorts, Essex offers an exciting palette of coastal delights that cater to all types of beach-goers. So, grab your beach towel, pack your sunscreen, and get ready to set sail through our curated list of 13 must-visit beaches in this remarkable region. Let’s dive in!
Best Beaches In Essex
13 Best Beaches In Essex
Frinton-On-Sea
Talk about a slice of paradise! Frinton-On-Sea is an oldie but a goodie.
Boasting a serene, clean, sandy beach that stretches for miles, it’s the perfect place for a peaceful retreat.
The Victorian charm of the beach huts simply adds to the magic.
Enjoy a day out with a picnic, or perhaps a spot of beach cricket.
West Mersea
Next up, West Mersea.
A spot famous for its oysters, it also packs a sandy punch.
It’s a haven for water sports enthusiasts, with windsurfing and sailing topping the charts. For landlubbers, a leisurely walk at sunset is a sight to behold!
Clacton-on-Sea
Clacton-on-Sea is as traditional as they come.
It’s got everything: a bustling pier with amusements, soft golden sand, and a glittering sea.
Whether you fancy a bit of beach volleyball, or simply building sandcastles, this beach is a family favourite!
Shoeburyness East Beach
A hidden gem, Shoeburyness East Beach is one of the best beaches in Essex for nature lovers.
It’s a tranquil spot, away from the hustle and bustle.
With its grassy backdrop and bird-watching opportunities, it’s a sweet escape into nature’s embrace!
Brightlingsea
Small, yet mighty, Brightlingsea is a pebbly delight.
It’s a quiet beach, known for its colourful beach huts.
Grab an ice cream, relax on the beach, and let your worries wash away with the waves!
Southend-on-Sea
Who could forget Southend-on-Sea?
It’s got the world’s longest pleasure pier and seven glorious miles of coastline!
With its lively arcades and thrilling rides, it’s a seaside playground for kids and adults alike!
Walton-on-the-Naze
Walton-on-the-Naze, a charming beach with a noteworthy twist – it’s got a tower offering panoramic views!
The beach is sandy and clean, ideal for families and sun worshippers.
On a good day, you might even find some ancient fossils!
Holland-on-Sea
A stone’s throw away from Clacton, Holland-on-Sea is a quieter alternative.
It offers sandy beaches and a tranquil atmosphere.
Perfect for a leisurely stroll or a brisk jog along the seafront!
Canvey Island
Love sea fishing? Then Canvey Island is your beach!
Aside from its fantastic angling opportunities, it offers stunning views of the Thames Estuary.
Not too shabby for a day at the beach, eh?
Three Shells Beach
Nestled in the heart of Southend, Three Shells Beach is a sandy sanctuary in the city centre.
Whether you want to soak up some rays or tuck into some tasty seafood, this beach ticks all the boxes!
Chalkwell Beach
Chalkwell Beach is a beauty, especially during low tide when the golden sand is revealed.
It’s a fantastic place to catch the mesmerizing sunset, casting a warm glow over the seafront.
A perfect ending to any day!
East Beach, Shoeburyness
Ideal for windsurfing and kite surfing, East Beach is a water sports enthusiast’s paradise.
It’s sandy, long, and quite a sight! Trust us, it’s a wave of fun!
Jaywick Sands
Finally, we have Jaywick Sands.
It’s a sandy stretch that provides a tranquil atmosphere and stunning views.
It’s one of the best-kept secrets of Essex’s coastline, and certainly worth the visit!
Final Thoughts
And there you have it, a grand tour of the 13 best beaches in Essex that promise unforgettable seaside experiences.
Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast looking to ride the waves, a nature lover yearning to explore unique wildlife and fossils, or someone simply seeking to unwind by the lapping waves, these beaches have something special in store for you.
So, don’t wait up! It’s high time you added a splash of salt water to your plans and let these charming Essex beaches provide the backdrop to your next adventure.
FAQs
Are there any sandy beaches in Essex?
Yes, Essex is home to numerous sandy beaches that are perfect for a day out in the sun. Some of the sandy beaches in Essex include:
- Frinton-On-Sea: Known for its serene and clean sandy beach, it’s a great place for a peaceful retreat.
- Clacton-on-Sea: This traditional beach features soft golden sand, a bustling pier with amusements, and is a favourite among families.
- Southend-on-Sea: Offering seven miles of coastline, this beach is not only sandy but also features the world’s longest pleasure pier.
- Walton-on-the-Naze: This charming beach offers clean sandy stretches, perfect for families and sun worshippers.
- Holland-on-Sea: Close to Clacton, this beach offers sandy stretches and a tranquil atmosphere, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Three Shells Beach: Located in the heart of Southend, this sandy sanctuary is perfect for a beach day in the city centre.
- Jaywick Sands: Known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning views, this sandy beach is one of Essex’s best-kept secrets.
What is the best seaside town in Essex?
Looking for the best seaside town in Essex? Say no more! Southend-on-Sea wins the crown hands down. Why, you ask? Well, it’s simple. This buzzing town isn’t just any old seaside resort. Oh no, it’s home to the world’s longest pleasure pier.
But the fun doesn’t stop at the pier. Seven miles of golden sand stretches out before you, just begging for sandcastles and sunbathing. It’s one of the best beaches in Essex, if not the best!
And let’s not forget the hubbub along the seafront. Arcades, amusements, and eateries galore. It’s a hive of activity, chock-full of fun for all ages. So, whether you’re up for a paddle in the sea or a spin on a carousel, Southend-on-Sea has you covered. It’s a seaside jewel in Essex’s crown, a real must-visit.
Where is the best beach in Essex for shells?
One of the best beaches in Essex for shells is Walton-on-the-Naze. This charming seaside town is not only known for its beautiful sandy beach, but also for its abundance of shells.
It’s not just shells you’ll find, either. It’s famous for its fossil-rich cliffs, often called the “Naze.” If you’ve got a keen eye, you might even stumble upon ancient shark teeth! How’s that for a beach day keepsake?
Walton-on-the-Naze is a beachcomber’s paradise. It offers a unique seaside experience, making it one of the best beaches in Essex for those with a penchant for natural treasures.
Founder, Editor
Ed is the founder and editor at Lifes Beaches. He’s lived near a beach his whole life and loves exploring other great places to enjoy the sun and the sea. He’s a keen surfer and enjoys finding hidden beach spots to catch the best waves.
