Looking for a slice of coastal charm without leaving London? Dust off those flip-flops because London's got sandy beaches and beach-themed spots that bring the beach vibes right to you.
Whether you're into urban beach bars like The Fulham Beach Club or a relaxing seaside retreat, I'm going to take you on a sandy journey to find the perfect spot to unwind or party this summer - no plane ticket required!
I've decided to round up the best beaches in and around London - along with other fun activities, all located within just two hours of the capital.
Key Takeaways
London offers a variety of beach bar experiences, from the urban retreat at Fulham Beach Club to the Caribbean vibes at Limin’ Southbank and the authentic beach atmosphere at The Montague on the Gardens.
Seaside escapes are just a short trip away for those seeking tranquillity or adventure by the sea.
For a more exclusive seaside experience, Londoners can visit hidden gems like Priory Bay Beach on the Isle of Wight, offering a quiet, secluded retreat.
Sip and Sunbathe: Top Beach Bars for Londoners
Are you looking for a beach experience without the stress of booking flights and hauling luggage? Enjoy the taste of a beach holiday at some of London’s top beach bars, where you can:
Sip on tropical cocktails
Sunbathe on sandy beaches
Soak in the vibrant atmosphere with scenic views of the River Thames
Whether you're looking for a wild night out or a quiet retreat to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, there's a beach bar waiting for you just around the corner! Here are some of the best beach bars in London:
Fulham Beach Club: Your Urban Beach Retreat
Did you know that there's a sandy beach right in the heart of Fulham? Yes, you heard that right.
Holiday Mode
At Fulham Beach Club, you'll feel like you've been whisked away to the sandy shores of Marbella, basking in the beaming sun rays and enjoying a frozen margarita.
This riverside oasis is a mini tropical getaway right in the heart of West London, where you can enjoy:
Beach games
Ping pong and beer pong
Covered pergolas and beach huts
Two restaurants serving up delicious platters and wood-fired pizzas
Capacity
With space for up to 500 party animals, Fulham Beach is renowned for its cosy beach huts and comfy sofas—ideal for dancing, partying, and soaking up some vitamin D.
Spaces
And for those of you who are sun shy, don't worry - they also have a covered pergola where you can sip your cocktail in the shade and soak up the vibrant ambience.
Nestled amidst towering buildings, it's a hidden gem where you can escape the hustle and bustle of London and unwind like you're on a stress-free summer getaway.
Looking to Party?
Get ready to groove, because Fulham Beach Club also throws boozy bottomless brunches and summer corporate parties where you can kick back, let your hair down, and channel your inner Mick Jagger (I hope you have your best dancing shoes on!).
Food and Drinks
Feeling hungry after all that dancing? Fulham Beach Club has you covered with a mouth-watering menu of juicy burgers, bottomless sourdough pizzas and sizzling sharing platters.
Live Music
Why not top off the night with one of their signature cocktails, then bop to live music from their outdoor DJ booth? The beach sand makes for a forgiving dance floor!
Whether you're after a seaside getaway or a wild beach bash, Fulham Beach Club has got your ticket to sandy shenanigans!
Limin' Southbank: Caribbean Vibes by the Thames
Are you craving that summer feeling of sand teasing your toes while you dance the night away surrounded by tropical palm trees?
Step into Limin' Southbank, and you'll find yourself in a Caribbean paradise right in the heart of London.
Vibe
In this exotic oasis, you can delight your senses with spicy margaritas and Limin' rum punch while enjoying vibrant live music that will have you shaking your hips all night long.
Food
But a beach day isn't complete without snacks! So why not tuck into some spicy jerk chicken, sweet plantain, and a diverse range of Caribbean delicacies catering to all palates (yes, even those of you who think cool Doritos are spicy!).
The Limin’ Southbank is the ultimate beach experience in London—except with more jerk chicken and fewer seashells in your shoes.
This is a cultural adventure that is sure to stick with you longer than your tan lines!
The Montague on the Gardens Beach Bar
Step into this charming seaside experience at The Montague, a chic beach bar with:
cosy beach huts
swaying palm trees
cocktails served in tropical coconuts that make you forget you're in the middle of the city!
Events
With themed parties like tropical nights, summer BBQs, and cocktail masterclasses, The Montague transforms every day into a lively summer escape you won't want to leave (FYI, the beach huts are a great hiding place!).
Games
And with beach games like volleyball or sandcastle building, this beach bar really knows how to bring a touch of seaside fun right into the heart of the city.
Vibe
Whether you're looking to chill with friends over a refreshing cocktail or planning a fun-filled day with the kids, The Montague on the Gardens provides a relaxing beach vibe without leaving London.
Best Beaches near London: Discovering London's Sandy Shores
Are you itching to escape the busy streets of the city? Don't worry, London's sandy shores are calling your name.
From quirky spots like Camber Sands to family-friendly getaways like Ruislip Lido, these beaches are your ticket to the refreshing taste of salty sea air without the hassle of seagulls stealing your fish and chips (but don't hold your breath - they'll eat anything!).
Whether you're the kind of person who enjoys a leisurely stroll along soft sands or can't resist a dip in the cool water, these beaches offer something for everyone!
Ruislip Lido: A Local Lake Beach Experience
Believe it or not, the closest beach to London is actually on the Piccadilly Line!
Location
In Ruislip, West London, there's a 700-acre woodland nature reserve that hides a beautiful natural lake complete with a genuine golden sandy beach.
Vibe
Ruislip Lido's natural shores are a perfect spot for families and couples looking to unwind and enjoy a beach day without leaving the city.
Unique Features
With a children’s play area, splash pad, and rock pools, the large lake is perfect for family fun and water play. You can even explore the woodland walk in the nature reserve—a beautiful spot for walking, birdwatching, and enjoying nature.
Aside from the beach experience, Ruislip Lido also offers convenient facilities with its:
Woodland Centre
Café
Restrooms
Changing rooms
Accessible for furry friends, scooters, and buggies, Ruislip Lido offers a getaway that's so inclusive, even the ducks are having a good time!
Seaside Getaways Within Reach: Beaches Under Two Hours from London
For those of you who desire a more authentic seaside trip, worry not; the best beaches near London are not far from the capital:
Whitstable Beach
Camber Sands
Bournemouth Beach
Botany Bay
Brighton Beach
Whether you're seeking a quiet escape, a place for family fun, or a beach with plenty of things to do, there's a perfect seaside getaway for you.
Whitstable Beach: Coastal Charm and Oysters
Located on the north of the Kent coast, Whitstable Beach is renowned for its:
distinctive shinge shoreline
succlent seafood shacks
picturesque coastal walks
One of the best beaches near London, this shingle shore is perfect for escaping the city and letting your mind wander. Who knows what treasures might be buried under those pebbles?
Games and Activities
With calm waters offering a peaceful vibe, this pebbly beach is perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. Or, if you're into the thrill of the catch, why not try your hand at crabbing? It's a local favourite, where you can catch crabs from the harbour—just watch out for those pinchy claws!
Oyster Festival
Beyond its natural beauty, this British seaside is famous for its native oysters - the local seafood staple. If you visit during the summer season, you can also enjoy the lively atmosphere of the annual Whitstable Oyster Festival, where the town's rich culture comes alive.
What better way to experience this charming coastal town—just get ready to embrace your inner oyster lover!
Camber Sands: East Sussex's Golden Stretch
Forget Bondi or Malibu—Camber Sands in East Sussex is where it's at! This golden oasis reminds me of the Caribbean, but with more tea and fewer sharks!
If you're looking for a peaceful beach day without the hassle of a transatlantic flight, Camber Sands is your sandy sanctuary near London!
Scenery
Once you arrive, you'll be welcomed by a three-mile stretch of golden beach and fresh sea air, all set against the backdrop of unique sand dunes—the only ones you'll find in East Sussex.
Games and Activities
If you're into windsurfing, this sunny paradise is perfect for you!
Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned pro, why not rent some gear and let the wind take you on an adventure?
Or, if you're more of a stay-on-solid-ground kind of person, Camber Sands has plenty of traditional fun like football and frisbee waiting for you.
Location
Tucked away in the charming Sussex village of Camber near Rye, Camber Sands is a stunning golden beach just waiting for you to kick off your shoes and enjoy its beauty.
Bournemouth Beach: Sandy Beach on the South Coast
Less than two hours from London, Bournemouth Beach spans seven miles of golden sands, blending a vibrant town centre with endless seaside fun that's perfect for a family getaway or hen do.
This blue-flag beach is the perfect escape from city life. The pier is a haven for families, with an arcade (get ready to compete!), climbing walls (channel your inner Spider-Man), a zip line (for a thrilling ride over the waves), and a café where you can enjoy coffee with breathtaking ocean views.
Known for its vibrant beach huts, available for rent by the day or longer, they're the perfect sanctuary from the sun—because who wants to look like a lobster at the beach?
And if you're looking to stay overnight, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from, including:
Whether you're planning a day packed with family fun, a romantic walk along the shore, or just some laid-back sunbathing, Bournemouth Beach is the perfect destination for your next summer getaway.
Botany Bay: Fossil Hunting and Chalk Cliffs
Did you know there's a hidden gem tucked away in the beautiful landscape of Broadstairs?
Seaside Charm
Botany Bay is a serene beach getaway that offers peaceful tranquillity. With its long golden shoreline and surrounding woodland, it's a charming seaside escape.
Scenery
Surrounded by breathtaking white cliffs and intriguing sea caves, Botany Bay is the ultimate spot to unwind and make unforgettable summer memories.
Coastal Trail
But Botany Bay is not just a beautiful beach - it's also part of the Viking Coastal Trail, a scenic route ideal for walking or cycling along the coast.
Historical Landmarks
This is the perfect route to explore nearby historical landmarks like the North Foreland Lighthouse, which has been guiding ships since the 17th century.
With serene sands, breathtaking cliffs, and fun-filled trails along the Viking Coastal route, it's the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you're hunting for fossils or just soaking up the sun with an ice cream in hand, there's something here for everyone to enjoy!
Brighton Beach: Pebbly Shores and Vibrant Pier
Just an hour by train from London, Brighton Beach is one of the most popular beach destinations in the UK.
So why is the go-to spot for Londoners craving a sandy escape—because let's face it, we all need a break from Tube delays!
Location
Situated in Sussex, this quirky town is famous for its unique pebble beach, world-famous pier, and thrilling amusement rides that will make you rethink your breakfast choices!
Games and Activities
Whether you're into paddle boarding or beating your high score at the arcade, Brighton has something to entertain everyone.
For an adrenaline rush with a view, why not hop on the South Coast's longest and fastest zip line—it's a thrilling roller coaster ride that'll have you screaming from excitement (and checking if your hair is still in place)!
Upside Down House
And how about defying the laws of gravity? If a zip line isn't your cup of tea, why not step into Brighton's quirky Upside Down House where you can get creative and take fun photos floating in the air.
British Airways i360
Or, if you're feeling more adventurous, you could take a trip up to the British Airways i360 observation tower for some iconic panoramic views of the coast and city.
So, as you can see, Brighton is not just a beach; it's a playground of activities that's worth exploring for your next beach getaway.
And if you want to finish the day off with a classic fish and chips, RYBKA and Captain's are great chippies to check out!
Private Havens: Exclusive Spots Near London
Many private havens near London offer the charm of a beach holiday without the crowds, making them perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Let’s explore one such hidden gem – Priory Bay Beach on the Isle of Wight, a perfect location for enjoying island fish.
Priory Bay Beach: Isle of Wight's Hidden Gem
Priory Bay Beach is a hidden gem on the Isle of Wight. With its approximately 600m long luscious shoreline and surrounding woodland, it offers a tranquil sanctuary.
Location
The beach is located on a private estate and can only be accessed by walking through Seagrove Bay or Priory Drive, accentuating its secluded nature.
Features
While the northern part is straight and sandy, the southern end curves and is rockier. Historical coastal defences and an offshore shallow sandbank, Gull Bank, enhance the beach's natural beauty.
Perfect for bathing and swimming, this bay is a secluded haven for a peaceful beach experience to relax this summer.
Summary
From urban beach bars like the infamous Fulham Beach Club to sandy shores, secluded havens, and seaside escapes, there are plenty of beach experiences to choose from.
Whether you’re in the mood for a vibrant beach party in the city, a peaceful retreat, or an adventurous day of fossil hunting, there are a variety of beach experiences that cater to everyone’s taste.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your sunnies and explore the serene sandy getaways London and its surroundings have to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some beach bars in London?
You can check out Fulham Beach Club, Limin' Southbank, and The Montague on the Gardens Beach Bar for a beach bar experience in London. Enjoy!
What is unique about Camber Sands?
Camber Sands stands out for its one-of-a-kind sand dune system, offering a distinctive landscape for visitors to enjoy.
What can I experience at Whitstable Beach?
You can experience serene coastal walks and sample native oysters, a local seafood speciality, at Whitstable Beach. Enjoy!
What secluded spots are available near London?
You can rent a private beach hut on beaches near London for a secluded beach experience, and Priory Bay Beach on the Isle of Wight also offers seclusion for a peaceful day by the sea. Enjoy your getaway!
What does Bournemouth Beach offer?
Bournemouth Beach offers eleven miles of golden sands, a vibrant town, and various seaside activities, making it a perfect destination for a day trip from London.