Best Beaches In Hampshire [12 Great Choices]

Are you ready to uncover the 12 best beaches in Hampshire? This charming county on the southern coast of England offers a variety of stunning seaside locations that are perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway.

From sandy shores to rocky coves, Hampshire’s beaches cater to sunbathers, swimmers, and adventure seekers alike. So, let’s dive into the ultimate coastal guide and discover why these beaches are perfect for your next visit!

Best Beaches In Hampshire

12 Best Beaches In Hampshire

Lepe Beach

Lepe Beach is a Hampshire favourite, offering a mile-long stretch of sand and pebble shoreline with mesmerizing views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight.

The beach is family-friendly and provides excellent facilities, including a playground, a barbecue area, and the Lepe Beach Café for a delicious meal.

This is a fantastic spot for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and walking along the Lepe Country Park coastal path.

Calshot Beach

Located on the Solent’s edge, Calshot Beach is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts.

The beach is known for its vast expanse of pebbles and shingle, with stunning views of sailing boats and bustling maritime activity.

Don’t miss the historic Calshot Castle and the Calshot Activities Centre, which offers activities like indoor climbing, windsurfing, and sailing courses.

Milford on Sea

Milford-on-Sea is a picturesque village beach that provides a serene and tranquil atmosphere near the New Forest.

Its stunning shingle beach stretches for miles, offering breathtaking views of the Isle of Wight and the Needles.

This is the ideal spot for a peaceful walk or a leisurely swim. And don’t forget to explore the charming village with its quaint shops, pubs, and restaurants.

Hayling Island Beach

Hayling Island Beach is a vast sandy paradise perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. The beach is divided into three sections: West Beach, Beachlands, and Eaststoke.

West Beach is a haven for windsurfers, while Beachlands offers family-friendly attractions like amusement arcades, a funfair, and a mini-golf course.

Eaststoke boasts unspoiled dunes and a nature reserve, making it perfect for nature lovers.

Barton on Sea

Barton-on-Sea is a stunning cliff-top beach offering panoramic views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight.

The beach is primarily shingle and pebble, with small patches of sand exposed during low tide. It’s an excellent location for fossil hunting, coastal walks, and golf, thanks to the nearby Barton-on-Sea Golf Club.

The cliff-top café is a must-visit for a tasty treat while enjoying the views.

Southsea Beach

This bustling beach in the heart of Portsmouth is a hive of activity and entertainment.

Southsea Beach is a mix of sand and shingle, with a vibrant promenade filled with restaurants, cafés, and shops.

Don’t miss the iconic South Parade Pier, offering traditional seaside amusements, an arcade, and even a small theme park. Southsea is also home to the D-Day Story museum, perfect for history buffs.

Hill Head Beach

Nestled between Southampton and Portsmouth, Hill Head Beach is a secluded stretch of shingle beach with beautiful views of the Isle of Wight.

The beach is popular among windsurfers and kitesurfers, and the Titchfield Haven National Nature Reserve nearby is perfect for birdwatching and peaceful walks. Grab a bite to eat at the local beachfront café, The Shack, which offers a relaxed atmosphere and delicious food.

Stokes Bay Beach

Stokes Bay Beach in Gosport boasts a long stretch of shingle beach with a grassy area perfect for picnics.

The beach offers spectacular views of the Isle of Wight and is just a stone’s throw away from the historic town of Portsmouth.

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade, or head to the nearby Alver Valley Country Park for a day of exploration.

The beach is also home to the Gosport & Stokes Bay Sailing Club, making it a popular spot for sailing enthusiasts.

Eastney Beach

Eastney Beach, located at the eastern end of Portsmouth, is a quieter alternative to Southsea Beach.

This long, sandy beach is an excellent location for sunbathing, swimming, and taking leisurely walks.

The Eastney Naturist Beach, a designated nudist beach, is also found here for those who prefer a more liberated sunbathing experience. Check out the nearby Royal Marines Museum for a dose of history during your visit.

North Solent National Nature Reserve

While not a conventional beach, the North Solent National Nature Reserve deserves a mention for its unique coastal experience.

The reserve features salt marshes, mudflats, and shingle spits, providing a haven for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

The reserve’s diverse landscape makes it perfect for leisurely walks and photography, capturing the beauty of Hampshire’s coastline.

Highcliffe Beach

Situated near the border of Hampshire and Dorset, Highcliffe Beach is a beautiful, sandy stretch of coastline with stunning views of the Isle of Wight.

The beach is backed by grassy cliffs and is adjacent to Highcliffe Castle, a magnificent Grade I listed building.

Enjoy a peaceful day on the beach, explore the castle grounds, or take a stroll along the nearby nature reserve, Steamer Point.

Lee-on-the-Solent Beach

Last but not least, Lee-on-the-Solent Beach is a lovely shingle beach offering a laid-back atmosphere and fantastic views of the Isle of Wight.

The beach is popular among families, with a variety of watersports activities available, including sailing, windsurfing, and jet skiing.

The nearby Hovercraft Museum is a must-visit attraction, showcasing the fascinating history of these unique vehicles.

Final Thoughts

Hampshire’s coastline boasts an impressive array of beaches, each offering its unique charm and character.

From family-friendly sandy shores to peaceful nature reserves, there’s a beach for everyone to enjoy.

So, pack your sunscreen, grab your swimming gear, and set off on a seaside adventure to explore the 12 best beaches in Hampshire!