Things to do in Suffolk: Top 10 Best Beaches in Suffolk

dreamstime.com free images

Discover the most beautiful beaches in Suffolk and enjoy the best experience exploring our hand-picked Suffolk beaches.

Suffolk is home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches. Whether you prefer secluded nature reserve walks along the coast or family-friendly beaches that are bustling with life, Suffolk has something to suit.  Located near London, Suffolk beaches are the perfect getaway from fast paced city life. Explore what Suffolk has to offer alone, as a couple or as a family treat.  

Aldeburgh Beach 
Aldeburgh Beach boasts several historic landmarks on its beach front. Landmarks include the 400-year-old Moot Hall, a Martello tower, a converted windmill, and a Norman church. There is no car parking charge, and the beach is dog friendly from October to April. You can be sure to find a selection of vendors selling seaside classic treats such as ice cream, fish and chips and coffee.  

Southwold Pier Beach 
At Southwold Pier you will find fun for all. This east coast beach attracts visitors from across the country. It offers a wide range of amenities such as restaurants, shops and arcades.  This sandy beach welcomes dogs on parts of the beach all year round. For a classic British seaside experience, visit Southwold Pier beach with all the family.   

Southwold Denes Beach 
In contrast to Southwold Pier beach, Southwold Denes beach is a quiet, isolated beach surrounded by sand dunes.   The water here is suitable for swimming, canoeing and paddle boarding. Denes beach is dog friendly throughout the year so no need to leave your furry friend at home. A range of cafés and kiosks can be found a short walk from the beach front. 

Thorpeness Beach 
Thorpeness is a shingle beach just north of Aldeburgh. It is well recognised as being home to a large golf course, a boating lake and eye-catching Tudor style buildings.  You can hire boats to sail or row around the lake and take in the spectacular views. The beach itself has no amenities but is a short walk from the village centre where you will find cafes, pubs and ice cream vendors. 

Lowestoft 
Popular among thrill seekers, Lowestoft offers a range of water sport activities such as surfing, jet skiing, wind surfing and paddle boarding.  Lowestoft beach is ideal for families as it boasts beach huts and cafes that serve hot and cold drinks and an assortment of snacks. Dogs are permitted on the beach throughout winter months.  

Felixstowe
Felixstowe beach is a four-mile stretch with both family-friendly and rural areas. The south beach in Felixstowe have been awarded a Blue Flag and Seaside Award recognising the high beach management standard.  Felixstowe beach has everything you need for a fun day out with arcades, shops and plenty of food and drink kiosks. There are also public toilets for comfort. 

Dunwich Beach 
This remote shingle beach offers peace and tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of town. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, you don't have to walk far from the car park at Dunwich beach.  This peaceful spot is perfect for dog walks, paddling in the ocean, fishing and bird watching. Dunwich beach has public toilets and a popular cafe by the free car park.  

Walberswick Beach 

Walberswick beach is located on the coast of a small village and is backed by pretty sandy dunes and a National Nature Reserve reedbeds.  The beach itself is a mix of sand and shingle but don’t worry, you’ll be able to build a sandcastle at the harbour end.   For a laid-back day out, visit this thriving holiday village. Play in the sand, look for rare birds, enjoy a dip and then stop for a bite to eat in one of the many village eateries. 

Covehithe Beach 
The Covehithe stretch of beach is almost forgotten land. This beach is located at the end of a narrow country lane, stopped by an abrupt cliff drop (don't worry, you can't drive that close!).   Here at this wild beach, you can see ruins of the medieval St Andrews Church, sit in a bird hide, or get away from it all with a long walk along the coast.

Kessingland Beach
Kessingland beach is a spacious sun trap covered in sand and shingle. You’re guaranteed to find some space on this beach even on the sunniest summer day.   Ideal for swimming and wind surfing, this beach is also next door to Benacre Nature Reserve that shows off a variety of bird life. Dogs are welcome all year round at Kessingland beach.