No two beaches are the same. Some are all quiet coves and gentle waves. Others are packed with watersports, family-friendly resorts, and bustling beachfronts. Whatever your idea of a perfect beach day looks like, there's a stretch of sand to match.
The Paradise Guide helps you find a beach destination that fits the way you travel. Based on your preferences, budgets and travel plans, we’ll recommend places that match what you’re looking for.
The UK’s best beaches
The UK is home to some of the world’s top beaches, from stretches of sands to tucked away coves, the coastline offers a beach for everyone. Our data has analysed a breadth of beaches across the UK against a series of metrics from average air and sea temperature to sun lounger availability and reviews, to determine which are the nation’s best to visit.
Below are some of the UK’s top beaches according to our data.
1. Sandbanks Beach, Dorset, England
Sandbanks Beach is a favourite on Dorset's coastline, with a long, gently sloping stretch of sand that's ideal for families, swimming and watersports. Overlooking Poole Bay, it has held Blue Flag status for many years thanks to its high standards of water quality and facilities. Sandbacks is also one of the easiest beaches to reach in the UK, situated just 25 minutes from Bournemouth Airport. With an average peak-season temperature of 20.8°C and a Tripadvisor rating of 4.6, it’s easy to see why this beach tops the list. Whether you're building sandcastles or taking a stroll along the shore, Sandbanks is an easy spot to spend a day by the sea.
2. Botany Bay, Kent, England
Botany Bay is known for its striking white chalk cliffs and golden sand, making it one of the UK's most distinctive beaches. At low tide, the beach opens up to reveal rock pools and shallow pools that are perfect for exploring. During peak season, the temperature reaches an average of 20.3°C and has the warmest average sea temperature at 22.5°C, making it one of the ideal spots to swim. For the best views, follow part of the Viking Coastal Trail to take in the bay and the surrounding coastline.
3. St Andrews West Sands, St Andrews, Scotland
St Andrews West Sands Beach is a wide, two-mile stretch of golden sand backed by rolling dunes, just a short walk from the centre of St Andrews. Made famous by the opening scene of Chariots of Fire, it's a favourite for long walks, beach games and taking in sea views. At low tide, the expansive shoreline offers plenty of space to explore, while the nearby West Sands boardwalk provides an easy way to enjoy the surrounding dunes and coastline. St Andrews West Sands pairs a 4.7 Tripadvisor rating with beautiful coastal scenery. Though average peak season temperatures reach a slightly chillier 15.8°C, the sweeping views and long shoreline make it well worth a visit.
The World’s most talked-about beaches
Looking for your next beach escape? We analysed reviews, search data and ratings to reveal the beaches travellers are searching for and talking about around the world.
1. Palm Beach, Oranjestad, Aruba
Palm Beach is the kind of Caribbean escape many travellers dream about. Expect year-round sunshine, warm seas and a laid-back atmosphere that's perfect for switching off. Located near Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba, this famous stretch of coastline combines postcard-worthy scenery with everything you need for a stress-free beach holiday. Restaurants, beach bars, water sports and sun loungers are all within easy reach, making it easy to spend an entire day by the sea. With consistently warm temperatures throughout the year, Palm Beach is as good for winter sun as it is for a summer getaway. It’s no surprise that Palm Beach attracts more than half a million global Google searches each month, thanks to its idyllic Caribbean setting.
2. La Jolla Cove, California, USA
Looking for something a little different? La Jolla Cove offers dramatic coastal scenery alongside some of California’s clearest waters. Unlike traditional sandy beaches, this small rocky cove is known for its emerald-green sea, rugged coastline and incredible marine life. It’s a favourite spot for snorkelling, kayaking and spotting sea lions, all just a short drive from San Diego. Almost 14,000 reviews result in a 4.6 review rating, showing how this cove is a firm favourite with visitors. While you won’t find rows of sun loungers here, you will find spectacular views and a beach experience that feels uniquely Californian.
3. Siesta Key Beach, Florida, USA
Siesta Key Beach is well-known for its fine white sand and clear turquoise waters, making it one of Florida’s most iconic beach destinations. Just a short drive from Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, this Gulf Coast beach offers a great mix of natural beauty and excellent facilities. Whether you’re looking to unwind on the soft, powdery sand, experience some adrenaline with some water sports or enjoy a meal overlooking the sea, everything you need is within easy reach. With a 4.7 average review rating on Tripadvisor, and 135,000 global Google searches every month, we can see exactly why Siesta Key Beach is one of Florida’s most sought-after escapes.
The world’s most underrated beaches
Looking for a beach that's a little off the beaten path? These lesser-known spots may not attract the same volume of Google searches or reviews as the world's most famous shores, but they're still highly rated by travellers. If peace, space and stunning scenery are high on your wishlist, these beaches are a great place to start.
1. Embleton Bay, Northumberland, United Kingdom
Wild, windswept and wonderfully uncrowded, Embleton Bay is proof that some of the UK’s best beaches are hiding in plain sight. Backed by rolling dunes and overlooked by the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, this hidden gem with a long stretch of golden sand feels a world away from nearby busier seaside hotspots such as Alnmouth and Blyth Beach. Visit between June and September for the best chance of sunshine and coastal walks with a view.
2. Rendezvous Bay, Montserrat
Getting here takes a little more effort, and that's exactly why it's a hidden gem. Accessible only by boat or hike, Rendezvous Bay rewards travellers with pristine white sand, clear azure water and a sense of complete escape. With no rows of sun loungers or bustling beach bars, it's the kind of place where the soundtrack is simply the sea.
3. Castlerock Beach, Derry~Londonderry, Northern Ireland
Along Northern Ireland’s dramatic Causeway Coast, Castlerock Beach offers a kilometre of golden sand backed by sweeping views and a relaxed seaside atmosphere. Whether you're walking the shoreline or simply taking in the Atlantic views, it's an easy reminder that some of the best beach days happen away from the spotlight.
Beach day essentials
A little planning can make the difference between a good beach day and a great one. Before you head for the coast, make sure you've got the basics covered.
• Pack for the day ahead
A few essentials can make all the difference. Pack sunscreen, swimwear, practical clothing and plenty of water to stay comfortable throughout the day. If you're heading to a quieter or more remote beach, bring snacks or a picnic, as food options may be limited.
A hat, beach umbrella or other sun shade is also worth packing for a break from the midday heat. It's a good idea to carry both a card and a little cash too, as smaller cafés, beach bars and local vendors don't always accept every payment method.
• Check local rules before you go
Every beach is different. Some have restrictions on pets, water sports, barbecues or protected wildlife areas. Taking a few minutes to check local guidelines before you arrive can help you avoid surprises and make sure you're respecting the destination you're visiting.
• Be prepared for the weather
Even the sunniest beach destinations can be unpredictable. Check the forecast before you travel and keep an eye on local conditions, especially if you're planning to swim, surf or spend a full day outdoors.
• Leave only footprints
Help keep beaches beautiful for future travellers by taking your rubbish with you, using designated facilities and following any conservation measures in place.
Make your beach trip even smoother
• Consider hiring a car
Some of the world's best beaches are a little off the beaten path. If you're planning to visit a more remote stretch of coastline, hiring a car can give you the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover hidden spots along the way.
• Find the right place to stay
Whether you're looking for a beachfront resort, a cosy guesthouse or a budget-friendly stay, Skyscanner stays makes it easy to compare options and find accommodation that fits your trip.
• Track prices before you book
A beach getaway doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. Set up a Skyscanner Price Alert to track fares for your chosen route, or save flights to a list so you can check back whenever you like. Using the Skyscanner app? Keep an eye on DROPS to spot flights that have recently fallen in price. We'll let you know when fares change, so you can book when the price is right.
Found your favourite? Search for flights, hotels and car hire with Skyscanner and start planning your beach getaway.
