From the shush of the waves to the shift of the sand, from tidal fluctuations to the dynamic play of light on the water’s surface, we find ourselves mesmerised by every aspect of the sea and at this time of year that urge to pilgrimage to the coast can be strong!
And, let’s face it, we’re rather spoilt for choice in the UK – fabulous beaches with an array of beach-side activities lie to the north, south, east and west of our fair isle. Perhaps one of these fabulous beaches and nearby touring grounds with great reviews might tempt you in a particular direction?
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Wildlife Beach
St Ives isn’t just a magnet for painters, families and watersports enthusiasts.
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Head for Cornwall’s Porthemeor Beach and spot basking sharks, grey seals, bottlenose dolphins, sunfish and even the occasional whale from the coastal paths overlooking this idyllic bay.
Stay at Ayr Holiday Park, a small site set at the heart of this stunning Cornish community, graded 4 stars by the Tourist Board. Ayr Holiday Park is less then half a mile from the beaches and beautiful town of quaint St Ives, providing fabulous access to the shops, restaurants and laid-back culture of this jewel in Cornwall's crown.
most important of all, pitch up here and you'll only be a short walk from Porthmeor, arguably St Ives’ best stretch of sand. Pack binoculars and spotters' guides for great wild-life safaris!
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Ayr Holiday Park, St Ives
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Island Beach
Question: Where does a caravanner from an island nation go to get away from it all? Answer: An even smaller island.
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If you want that ‘removed from everyday life’ feeling without too much hassle reaching paradise with your caravan or camper, then take advantage of the miles of beach on Walney Island, Cumbria.
A particular favourite is Earnse Bay, wild in winter with incredible views from the North towards the Lake District and fresh cobweb clearing winds, and great in summer for leisurely walks, rockpooling and a sea-dip on a sunny day.
Stay at South End Caravan Park Walney Island and enjoy the best of both worlds: licensed bar, Sky Sports, snooker table, both indoor and outdoor kids' facilities, indoor swimming pool and sauna...facilities to keep you connected to the outside world, should you wish....or abandon yourself to the expanse of Walney Island on your doorstep.
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South End Caravan Park Walney Island
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Wild Swimming Beach
You’d be forgiven for assuming that the crushed-shell, white sand of Achmelvich in the Assynt region of the North West Highlands has been shipped in from the Caribbean.
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This stunning azure bay is a favourite with swimmers and snorkelers, the rocks and inlets bordering each side of the beach providing excellent opportunity for exploratory wild swimming. Stay adjacent to the beach at Shore Caravan Site.
This site is remote but with a shop and launderette, you won't be roughing it! You will be able to enjoy a truly natural camping experience, though, enjoying a campfire or barbeque on the beach itself beneath unpolluted night skies. Anyone for a moonlit swim?
For an even more secluded swim experience, take the short picturesque headland walk between Achmelvich and the cove lying just to the north.
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Shore Caravan Site, Highland
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Rockpooling Beach
Wembury Bay on Devon’s South Coast is a haven for wildlife, with low-tide rockpools jam packed with hoards of crabs and critters for you to discover.
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Famous for cushion starfish, beadlet anemones, pipe fish and edible crabs, this beach is a rockpooler’s dream. Wembury Marine Centre run by the Devon Wildlife Trust regularly holds events for little - and bigger(!) - kids throughout the summer season, ensuring that rockpooling is enjoyed with the minimum impact on the coastal environment.
Pack your snorkel and explore the underwater garden surrounding the shore. Stay just inland at Brixton Caravan & Camping Park, a sheltered site close to pretty Brixton village.
Although this site is only 5 miles from the buzz of Plymouth city, you wouldn't know it. Stay here as a base from which to enjoy the South Hams area, as it is ideally situated for exploring the great beaches on this stretch of the South Devon coastline.
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Brixton Caravan and Camping Park, Devon
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Horse Riding on the Beach
Studland Beach and Nature Reserve in gorgeous Dorset is top of many folks’ list of their favourite beach and it’s easy to understand why.
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This four mile stretch of golden sand with gently shelving waters makes it ideal for family fun, for watersports and for wild-life spotting in the dunes behind.
Studland Stables (Tel: 01929 450273) offer the archetypal beach horse-riding experience with beautiful cliff top views and the sheer exhilaration of a canter along the shoreline. The stables offer bespoke packages, helping you to build a riding experience that will always remember. So, if you are looking for that holiday centre piece experience, then give them a call.
Stay at nearby Stay near Swanage at Ulwell Cottage Caravan Park, an attractive site with good facilities including a pool, large outdoor play area and bar and restaurant.
Giddy up!
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Ulwell Cottage Caravan Park, Dorset
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If you're planning on staying at one of these great sites and throwing yourself into the activities nearby, why not use the 'Things to Do' tab on each site's listing to look at the 1000+ pubs, shops, restaurants and attractions in the vicinity to help you plan your stay.
Don't forget to upload your great pictures to a Campsite Chatter Pinboard - you can do it remotely or on your return!
By Bekah Mardall, Campsite Chatter.
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