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10 of the Best Beaches in Hampshire
Hampshire, located in the southern part of England, is an area filled with natural beauty and a stunning coastline. As such, some of the best beaches in Hampshire are the perfect destination for your beach holiday. With its mild climate, unique blend of natural beauty, and rich history, the county offers a diverse array of picturesque beaches to explore.
The best Hampshire beaches can cater to every beach lover's preference, regardless of their age. Whether you're seeking a secluded haven to retreat from your busy nine-to-five or looking for a lively spot for days of family fun, Hampshire has something for everyone.
You could venture to the golden stretch of sand at Hayling Island Beach or explore the unique and picturesque views of Calshot Beach. Let's delve into 10 of the best beaches in Hampshire, so you have inspiration for your next dream holiday away!
Hayling Island Beach
Situated on the southwestern tip of Hayling Island, Hayling Island Beach is a golden stretch that makes for one of the best beaches in Hampshire. Particularly ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts alike, this beach has a little something for everyone.
Find out moreWith its gently sloping shoreline and designated swimming areas, Hayling Island Beach is famous for those seeking a safe and enjoyable beach day out. The beach has amenities so you can refuel in various cafes and shops.
Thanks to the ideal conditions provided by the island's unique geography, water sports enthusiasts can indulge in activities such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing.
What's more, this beach is only around a 10-minute drive or even a 40-minute walk away, if you're staying at Mill Rythe Holiday Park.
Lepe Beach
Nestled within the picturesque Lepe Country Park, Lepe Beach is a hidden gem among the best beaches in Hampshire. This tranquil and unspoiled beach has a unique blend of shingle and golden sand, giving you a scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Find out moreLepe Beach is also a paradise for nature lovers, with its stunning coastal scenery and diverse wildlife, including rare bird species for the whole family to enjoy. Visitors can explore the nearby coastal trails, take in the breathtaking views of the Solent, or relax and feel the sun on the beach.
Calshot Beach
Calshot Beach, situated at the mouth of Southampton Water, is one of the best beaches in Hampshire for many reasons – particularly its unique scenery. The beach is popular among families, with its gently sloping shoreline and shallow waters, making it an ideal spot for paddling and building sandcastles.
Find out moreBut what makes this one of the nicest Hampshire beaches is that you can stand on the beach, look out into the distance, and see the panoramic views of the Isle of Wight and the Solent. With views like this, this picturesque beach is a must-visit for your next getaway.
Not only can you enjoy these views, but you can also bring along your dog, who's welcome on the beach all year round. Just be sure to keep them on a lead.
Milford-On-Sea Beach
Another charming beach is Milford-On-Sea Beach - an unspoiled coastline stretch that epitomises the beauty of Hampshire beaches. This shingle beach is backed by colourful beach huts and lush green cliffs, creating the perfect setting. Why not stroll along the promenade and enjoy the stunning views, or explore the nearby coastal villages and historic sites for a cultural break?
Find out moreIf you're driving from Sandy Balls Holiday Park, you can reach the beach in only around 45 minutes.
Netley Beach
In the scenic Royal Victoria Country Park, Netley Beach is a hidden gem that offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance for your day out. Lush woodlands and the imposing ruins of the Royal Victoria Military Hospital surround this shingle beach.
Find out moreYou'll find a truly enchanting atmosphere at this beach, and you can enjoy a peaceful stroll along the shore, explore the nearby nature trails, or relax and take in the tranquil surroundings.
Depending on the season you visit, all-day parking ranges from £7-£9.50, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly.
Eastney Beach
Eastney Beach is a vibrant and vast stretch of coastline in Portsmouth's heart. It is one of the nicest sandy beaches in Hampshire and is a popular destination for families. The beach is easily accessible with plenty of parking nearby, as well as a cafe. This spot is also convenient if you want to cool down and relax in the soothing waves by swimming.
Find out moreFor more adventure, you can always try your hand at water sports, with kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing opportunities.
Keep an eye out. During the summer months, Eastney Beach comes alive with various events and activities, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking a lively beach experience.
Browndown Point Beach
Situated on the western edge of Gosport, Browndown Point Beach is a Ministry of Defence-owned location and one of the best Hampshire beaches to visit. This secluded and unspoiled beach offers a mix of golden sand and shingle, providing a serene escape from the crowds.
Find out moreVisitors can enjoy stunning views of the Solent and maybe spot a few boats sailing by in the distance – a great way to get the young ones excited about the vast seas. Browndown Point Beach is also a popular spot for birdwatching, with a diverse array of seabirds and migratory species frequenting the area.
If you're staying at Mill Rythe Holiday Park, you can reach Browndown Point Beach in only around a 35-minute drive.
Southsea Beach
For an authentic taste of seaside fun on Hampshire's beaches, you should visit Southsea Beach. This shingle beach is located in the heart of Southsea, a bustling coastal town known for its amusement arcades, cafes, and restaurants. Therefore, the whole family will have endless options to fill the day at the seaside.
Find out moreVisitors can enjoy various activities, from traditional beach games to water sports, or relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Southsea Beach also has a lifeguard service, so you can safely swim in the sea with the support and guidance of professionals.
Lee-on-the-Solent Beach
Lee-on-the-Solent Beach is a picturesque stretch of coastline that offers vast natural beauty and urban convenience. Located in a charming coastal town, this shingle beach provides easy access to amenities, including shops and cafes, for a nice family food break. For a relaxed day out, stroll along the promenade and enjoy stunning views of the Solent.
Find out moreThe more active can indulge in water sports activities such as sailing and windsurfing. Also, behind the beach, you'll find some nice grassy areas perfect for a family picnic full of tasty treats.
Hill Head Beach
To finish off our list of the best beaches in Hampshire, we're heading down to Hill Head Beach, a hidden gem located in the picturesque village of Hill Head. This tranquil beach offers a peaceful escape where you can relax and peer out at the calming views of the sea and the Solent. The beach is a mix of shingle and golden sand, backed by gorgeous greenery and a pristine coastline.
Find out moreIndulge in beachcombing, coastal walks, birdwatching, or relax and soak up the sun on the beach. When driving from Mill Rythe Holiday Park, you can reach Hill Head Beach within around a 35-minute drive.
Best Hampshire beaches FAQs
To learn more about the best beaches in Hampshire, here are the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions!
Does Hampshire have sandy beaches?
Yes, you'll find several sandy beaches in Hampshire that offer golden stretches of sand that are perfect for beach activities and sunbathing. Some of these beaches include:
- Hayling Island Beach
- Calshot Beach
- Lee-on-the-Solent Beach
Is Lepe Beach stoney?
Lepe Beach is a mix of shingle and golden sand, offering a diverse beach experience.
While it has a stoney part to the beach, it also features sandy areas ideal for sunbathing and beach activities – so you can enjoy whatever type of experience you want.
How many beaches are there in Hampshire?
There are 36 beaches in Hampshire, with both sandy and shingle locations to enjoy.
These Hampshire beaches are scattered along its picturesque coastline, offering dozens of beautiful and diverse coastal destinations in the county.
The exact number of beaches may vary depending on how beaches are defined.
Find the best beach holiday in Hampshire
Whether you're seeking a family-friendly destination, a secluded haven, or a lively seaside experience, the best beaches in Hampshire will undoubtedly have something to offer for every beach lover.
From the golden sands of Hayling Island Beach to the unspoiled beauty of Lepe Beach and the vibrant atmosphere of Southsea Beach, the county's coastline is a true treasure trove of unforgettable beach experiences.
Therefore, why don't you get ready to enjoy your Hampshire holiday experience with so many of the best Hampshire beaches?
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Take a look at beaches by region:
Hampshire | Scotland | Isle of Wight | Dorset | North Wales | Yorkshire | Lincolnshire | Cornwall