Sun, sea and savings: Enjoy the seaside for less

A seaside escape doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

In fact, there are plenty of ways you can enjoy all the charm, beauty and tasty food of the UK’s stunning coastal spots, without the premium price tag.

So if you're planning a day trip or a weekend away, how can you keep costs down, and where should you think of going?

Travel for less

A trip to the seaside starts with travel, which can often be expensive. 

But there are options if you’re on a tight budget...

Book train tickets in advance

Use railcard discounts, buy off-peak or split tickets using apps like Split My Fare or Trainline.

Car share

If you’re going to the seaside with friends, share a car so you can split the cost of petrol and parking between you.

Book a coach 

National Express and Megabus often run services to popular seaside towns for as little as £5 to £10 each way.

Cycle or walk

If you live fairly close to a nice seaside town, you might be able to get there via a scenic cycle route or walking trail.

Tasty treats on a budget

It’s easy to overspend on food at the beach, but there are few ways to keep costs down…

Bring your own picnic

Load up a cool bag with homemade sandwiches, snacks and drinks, so you don’t have to pay over the odds for refreshments at your destination.

Look for set menus and early bird specials

Smaller seaside cafes often offer cheaper options before midday or mid-week.

Share portions

A large portion of fish and chips often has enough for two people, so why not save money by sharing?

Free and low-cost seaside fun

The beach itself is the perfect place to visit on a budget, as you can enjoy loads of activities that don’t cost a thing, such as: 

• rock pooling and beachcombing
• building sandcastles
• sunset strolls and scenic clifftop walks
• wild swimming 

It’s also worth finding out what free local events are happening in the area, such as fairs and live music performances.

Stay for less

If you're planning an overnight trip…

Consider hostels or camping

Seaside hostels can offer private rooms at a fraction of hotel prices.

Campsites and glamping pods are another fun and affordable option.

Book midweek

Accommodation is often much cheaper on weekdays.

Stay nearby

Look for places just outside the main seaside town and travel in.

Even if you have to pay for a bus or train to get to the beach, the savings you can get from staying a bit further away can still be worth it.

The UK’s favourite seaside spots

Okay, so now we know how to keep costs down at the beach.

But where should you actually go?

A survey of Which? members has revealed the best-loved coastal destinations in the UK - and many are surprisingly affordable and less crowded than major resorts.

Bamburgh in Northumberland came top of the rankings with a rating of 84%, followed by:

• Beer, Devon - 80%
• Portmeirion, Gwynedd - 79%
• St David’s, Pembrokeshire - 79%
• Sidmouth, Devon - 79%
• Tynemouth, Tyne and Wear - 79%
• Dungeness, Kent - 78%
• Tenby, Pembrokeshire - 78%
• Aldeburgh, Suffolk - 77%
• Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk - 77%

With a little planning, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy award-winning beaches, stunning scenery and classic seaside food even if you’re on a budget.

Summer has arrived - and you deserve to enjoy it to the full.