The UK has many fantastic coastal landscapes all across the country, whether you look north, south, east, or west.
From Dorset and Norfolk to Pembrokeshire and Yorkshire, many of these locations make for fantastic getaway destinations for couples in need of a romantic retreat.
Covering one end of the country to another, we’ve put together this list of places that offer the best coastal breaks for couples in the UK.
1. Tenby
Located on the Pembrokeshire coast, Tenby is one of the most beautiful coastal towns in the UK, let alone Wales, and is a great destination for a romantic getaway.
With several stunning beaches, a castle with incredible views across the sea, and other historic sites to discover like the popular Tudor Merchant’s House, there are plenty of fun things to do in Tenby for couples.
You can also drive out to explore much of Pembrokeshire to see what else this part of Wales has to offer.
Plus, you can take a boat ride over from Tenby to find out all the things to do on Caldey Island, such as spotting the amazing red squirrels that inhabit it.
2. Saundersfoot
Just along the coast from Tenby is another idyllic seaside town, Saundersfoot, which also offers one of the best coastal breaks for couples in the UK.
Out of season, Saundersfoot is quiet and serene, but in summer it really comes alive and walking along the harbour on a warm evening almost feels like being on a Mediterranean island.
You can read about the best things to do in Saundersfoot on our blog, such as relaxing on the beach or trying your hand a paddleboarding.
We also recommend hiking the coastal path and completing the Saundersfoot to Tenby walk, which lets you see some of the nicest parts of this coastline.
If you’re staying in this lovely town, make sure to try out some of the best restaurants in Saundersfoot, such as Stone Crab and Kookaba.
3. Broadstairs
In the southeast corner of England, in the beautiful Kent, there are several great seaside towns worth visiting.
Nestled between Margate to the north and Ramsgate to the south, Broadstairs offers a great getaway location, with a golden sandy beach and cute town centre.
Broadstairs was even Charles Dickens’ favourite holiday spot, so if it’s good enough for him you can be sure it’ll be a fantastic vacation for you too.
One of the best things to do in Broadstairs is to take an ice cream down to the beach, have a dip in the sea, and then play games at the nearby amusements.
You can also check our list of free things to do in Broadstairs if you looking to stick to a budget.
4. Whitstable
Another popular seaside destination in Kent is Whitstable, which looks out across the Thames Estuary and is one of the most-visited coastal towns in the country.
The beach may be pebbles, rather than sand, but it’s one of the best beaches in Kent as it’s a great spot to relax and take a dip in the sea, especially in summer.
Other top things to do in Whitstable include grabbing a drink at one of the local pubs and exploring the various independent shops around the town.
You can also drive out to see some of the other fun things to do in Kent for couples, such as wandering around Sissinghurst Castle Garden.
5. Llandudno
In the north of Wales, Llandudno is one of the best locations for a coastal break for couples in the UK.
Known for its 19th-century pier and large beach, Llandudno has long been one of the most popular seaside resorts in the country and still provides a great romantic getaway location.
It’s worth dropping by just to take a trip on the Llandudno Cable Car, which will give you incredible views of the bay.
When you’re staying in Llandudno, it’s also easy to explore some of the many other fun things to do in North Wales for couples, including visiting Zip World or climbing Mount Snowdon.
6. Cromer
On the north coast of Norfolk, Cromer is another destination that has long been a popular spot for people to get away to and enjoy the sea breeze.
With an iconic pier, cute streets, and a long beach line with colourful beach houses, it’s easy to spend a day or long weekend unwinding in this picturesque seaside town.
You can fill your time by trying some of the other things to do in Cromer, such as meeting the animals at Amazona Zoo or visiting the RNLI museum.
7. Wells-Next-The-Sea
Further along the Norfolk coastline, Wells-Next-The-Sea also offers one of the best coastal breaks for couples in the UK.
This is in no small part due to it having one of the best beaches in Norfolk, with a large expanse of sand, many dunes to play games in, and a line of multi-coloured beach houses to act as a beautiful backdrop.
In the town, you’ll find numerous fantastic places to eat, including a range of fish and chip options if you’re after a quintessential British seaside experience.
8. Brighton
Not only is Brighton a large and vibrant city, it’s also one of the most popular destinations in the UK for anyone wanting to spend some time by the sea.
Being easily accessible by rail links, with a straightforward route from London, it offers one of the best UK city breaks by train.
Immersing yourself in the local nightlife, going on rides at the end of the pier, and enjoying freshly-made doughnuts on the beach are among just some of the best things to do in Bristol for couples.
You can also try one of the top adrenaline activities in the UK, walking high above the city at the top of Brighton i360.
If you’re interested in planning a romantic getaway to this beautiful city, make sure to check out our blog on the most fun things to do in Brighton for couples.
9. Whitby
Along the rugged coast of North Yorkshire, the town of Whitby has something to offer for everyone and is a great spot for a romantic getaway in the UK.
The ruins of a gothic abbey that inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula and that overlook the town may be the main feature when you visit, but you’ll find plenty of other things to do in Whitby for couples too.
This includes joining a guided ghost walk along the town’s historic streets and taking a short drive out to see the picturesque Falling Foss waterfall.
10. Scarborough
Just down the Yorkshire coastline from Whitby is Scarborough, where you’ll also be able to have a fun time by the sea.
With views across the wild waves of the North Sea, a standout place to visit is Scarborough Castle. Perched above the town, the climb to go and explore it is worth it.
There is also a range of amusements along the seafront and, for something a little different, Peasholm Park is a great place to visit, with its beautiful Chinese-style pagoda.
Coastal Breaks for Couples UK FAQs
What are some of the best coastal breaks for couples in the UK?
The best coastal breaks for couples in the UK include Tenby, a beautiful Welsh town with plenty of iconic places to visit, and Brighton, which offers all the variety of activities you’d expect from an urban hub and all by the sea.
Where can you find romantic cottages on the beach in the UK?
The most romantic beach-side cottages in the UK can be found all around the country, but especially in quieter coastal areas like Devon and part of north Norfolk.
What are some recommended coastal 2-night breaks for couples in the UK?
There are many great destinations for a short weekend away or other two-night getaways by the coast. The best include Cromer, as you can explore everything the town has to offer within a couple of days, and Broadstairs, where you can relax in a peaceful spot on the Kent coastline.
