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East Sussex is a region that is widely known for boasting stunning nature and coastal spots, and many people come to visit it solely for this purpose. To help you plan your next seaside escapade, we compiled a list of the best beaches in Sussex. We also added a separate section solely dedicated to sandy beaches in East Sussex.
No matter if you want to play beach games on sand and shingle beach or relax reading a book on a quiet pebble beach, this beach guide will provide you with a choice that fits your needs. After reading it, you can put aside the hassle of planning and making beach lists and start focusing on your sandcastle-building strategies and finding a vehicle to hire.
Table Of Contents
10 Best Beaches In East Sussex
Here is a detailed breakdown of the very best East Sussex can offer in terms of beaches:
1. Camber Sands
We’re starting the list of East Sussex beaches with a unique one. This beach is home to the only sand dunes in East Sussex. They create a landscape that feels like a desert oasis against the backdrop of the sea. Their purpose isn’t only to create scenic beauty but also to be a natural habitat for diverse flora and fauna.
You would think this sandy beach has huge crowds at all times, but it’s actually quite a calm area and you can go there to relax while you read your favourite novel. When it comes to your furry friends, most of the Camber Sands allow them, but there are certain restricted areas. We also recommend challenging yourself with some kitesurfing lessons.
Camber Sands is also very close to the charming city of Rye. You can read about the best things to do in Rye if you’re planning a vacation in this area.
2. Brighton Beach
The next on our list is a Blue Flag awarded pebbly beach that is brimming with life at all times. This typical Sussex beach has come a long way since being a small fishing community.
Brighton Beach is now one of the favourite beaches for tourists who visit this city. Brighton is the biggest city in this county, and since this beach is located in the city of Brighton, many people come to swim in certified blue flag waters during the summer months. It’s especially popular among kite surfers. And for your total convenience, you can find a car park nearby. This Blue Flag beach also houses a traditional fairground, so if you’re coming with kids, they’ll especially love it. Unfortunately, it restricts dogs, so if you plan on spending the day playing with your furry friend by the sea, Brighton Beach isn’t the best choice.
If you’re looking to move to Brighton, check out our detailed guide on places to live.
3. Pevensey Bay Beach
Our list of famous beaches also contains one that’s very important for English history. Pevensey Bay Beach is the very place where William the Conqueror landed before the iconic Battle of Hastings in 1066. Before, this former harbour used to be a busy commercial port, and now it’s among the most quiet shingle beaches in the area.
There are no lifeguard services, but you can still find cafes and grab something to eat close by. You could also go and visit Pevensey Castle and the Pevensey Bay Nature Reserve while you’re in the area. The northeast part of the bay called the Pevensey Levels, is especially important since it’s home to the rare fen raft spider.
4. Bexhill Beach
If you’re planning a family day on the Sussex coast, this is one of the best beaches to do so. For your convenience, there is a display car park, as well as a lifeguard service and a lost child centre. Bexhill Beach is mainly a shingle beach but there is some sand there as well. It also has wooden groynes.
You will find some very nice beach huts to stay in. Families aren’t the only ones who’ll have a blast there; water sports enthusiasts will also find a range of activities suitable to their interests. You can enjoy kayaking, jet-skiing, sailing and windsurfing.
5. Saltdean Beach
This charming shingle beach is another great option for anyone looking for coastal spots that aren’t too crowded. It’s located underneath the white chalk cliffs and has a collection of rock groynes. You’ll find numerous low-tide rock pools that can help you explore marine life.
If you’re someone who is always up for a challenge, you can climb atop the clip where there’s a grassy area. It is an excellent spot to take in the sea view. You can also enjoy a tasty picnic there. And if you’re looking for something more leisurely, you can always take a stroll through the promenade. Overall, this hidden gem can also be a good spot for families.
6. Hastings Beach
This shingle beach is a multifaceted destination that can provide you with a diverse coastal experience. One of the key features of this beach is the Hastings Pier, a Victorian structure, that underwent restoration in 2016. This pier offers amusements for young children, such as a miniature railway.
The beach will seamlessly connect you to Hastings Old Town, where you can enjoy narrow streets, antique shops and a lively arts scene. Since it’s located in an established seaside resort town, you’ll have a wide range of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Toilets are also found nearby for the total convenience of the visitors.
7. Cuckmere Haven
Cuckmere Haven Beach is a favourite spot for anglers. The diverse marine environment, combined with the presence of the meandering Cuckmere River, allows for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. The most common catches are bass and mullet. The pebbly beach is dominated by the white chalk cliffs. This isn’t only one of the best beaches for those who like to go fishing, it’s heaven for dog owners as well, since there are no dog restrictions on the beach.
Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy admiring a variety of bird species and marine life. Cuckmere Haven Beach’s natural charm and unspoiled landscape were also featured in famous movies such as Harry Potter and Robin Hood. To cap it off, you’ll get absolutely stunning views of the beach if you look over the coastguard cottages.
Where is East Sussex? Our blog post covers this topic for those looking to learn about the county.
8. Birling Gap Beach
Located at the base of the sheer chalk cliffs, commonly known as the Seven Sisters, this shingle beach has an array of rock pools you can explore. It’s placed between the two well-known seaside resorts of Eastbourne and Brighton, and it’s famous for its dramatic landscape, offering a visually striking experience.
The area is rich in geological features, which makes it a great spot to go fossil hunting. Certain areas of the beach are nudist-friendly, but there is no official confirmation whether there are dog-friendly areas or not. If you want to try out some of the watersports, you’ll be able to do it on this beach. Visitors also get parking space at no extra cost.
9. Fairlight Glen Beach
This is mostly a naturist beach, but non-naturists find it a great place to swim as well. It’s located east of Hastings. The best time to visit and swim on this beach is when the weather is warm and sunny. Keep in mind that there are no lifeguards there, so you have to be extra careful.
As for the beach itself, it offers a mix of pebbles and sand, which will provide you with a serene setting for relaxation and enjoyment of the coastal scenery. The closest place (about 20 minutes of walking) is Hastings Country Park Visitor Centre, where you can enjoy amenities such as cafes, toilets and the informational centre.
10. Seaford Beach
Seaford Beach, also known as Dane, is one of the best beaches to enjoy a laid-back atmosphere without any worry or over-stimulating sounds. It stretches between Newhaven Harbour and Seaford Head. Since this isn’t an overcrowded beach, you won’t find a lot of locals around, but there are a few places to grab a drink and get some food.
Dogs are allowed throughout the year, except in the central area during the season. You’ll also find a cycle path along the beach, so if you like to be active, you can enjoy a beautiful sea view while cycling. You won’t find any sand on this beach, only pebbles, but that still doesn’t make it any less enjoyable.
SDVH offers car hire in Sussex, perfect for anyone looking to get around conveniently. You can also check out our minibus options for group travel.
For Sand Lovers: 5 Best Sandy Beaches In East Sussex
We wanted to dedicate a separate section that’ll provide you with the best options for sandy beaches. Here is the short but sweet list:
1. Camber Sands
We’re aware that the iconic sand dunes are already covered in the list above, but Camber Sands and its extensive sandy beach will provide you with the most unique and dynamic coastal landscape among the Sussex beaches.
The sandy dunes aren’t there just to be aesthetically pleasing; they also serve as a natural barrier against coastal erosion and are an important part of the ecosystem. Known as a kitesurfing centre, it’s heaven for any water sports enthusiast, and a flat shoreline also provides a perfect place to play volleyball or beach soccer.
2. Pelham Beach
Nationally awarded Pelham Beach, located in Hastings, is one of the most stunning places to go if you want to enjoy tranquillity and also have a view of the town’s landmarks. The sand on this beach is most visible at low tide, and there are also sea-smoothed pebbles.
The lifeguard service covers the area during the season, so your safety is guaranteed. Hastings is one of the best places to live in East Sussex, and if you opt to make it your home, you’ll have the privilege of visiting this coastal heaven whenever you want.
3. Broomhill Sands
Just a skip away from Camber, this sandy beach might be less known, but its beauty is just as awe-inspiring as the other East Sussex beaches. At low tide, this beach transforms into a flat sand paradise, perfect for all sorts of activities. Since we’re talking about a hidden coastal gem, facilities are modest. However, there is an ice cream van during the season, ready to sweeten your coastal escapade. Make sure to explore the eastern end of the beach, known as Jury’s Gap.
4. Winchelsea Beach
Another quiet but charming coastal option, Winchelsea Beach is one of the smallest, most rural resorts East Sussex can offer. When it’s high tide, this beach is mostly pebbles, but on a low tide, you’ll get a large stretch of sand to feast your eyes on.
If you’re up for exploration, you can check out the mediaeval charm of the nearby town of Winchelsea. And if you’re travelling in a camper van, you have Rye Bay Caravan Park, which is located close to the beach.
Check out SDVH’s premium car options, perfect for occasions that demand comfort. Our 9-seater cars are also available for those seeking spacious vehicles for group travel.
5. Eastbourne Beach
One more picturesque beach stretch in East Sussex, Eastbourne Beach is perfect for anyone who wants to take a stroll, sunbathe or simply take in the beauty of the sea. Equipment rental and lessons are available for anyone who wants to try out any water sport.
You’ll have a free car park that includes disabled spaces. We also recommend checking out the centrepiece of Eastbourne Beach’s promenade, Carpet Gardens. And if you want to spice up your Eastbourne visit, you can click here to find out about all the fun things you could do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Sandy Beaches In East Sussex?
Yes, there are a few sandy beaches in East Sussex. Even though East Essex isn’t particularly known for its sandy beaches, and most of the coastline in this region is defined by pebble and shingle beaches, you can still find some sandy ones. Camber Sands has the most sand, but Pelham, Broomhill, and Winchelsea all have some level of sand.
What Is The Alternative To Camber Sands?
The alternatives to Camber Sands are Pelham Beach, Broomhill Sands and Winchelsea Beach. All of these sandy beaches offer a quiet and secluded experience, except Pelham Beach, which is the most popular option. There aren’t many facilities at Broomhill Sands and Winchelsea Beach, but they still maintain their unique charm, which makes them worth visiting.
Does Brighton Have Nice Beaches?
Yes, Brighton has nice beaches. Brighton is renewed for its pebbly beaches rather than the sandy ones. The beachfront boasts a lively promenade with shops and cafes. The Brighton Pier won’t only provide you with a nostalgic seaside experience, but it will also entertain you with its amazing amusement rides.
Is Eastbourne Beach Safe To Swim?
Yes, Eastbourne Beach is safe to swim in. There are some guidelines you should follow. The beaches are between the red and yellow flags. From the 1st of May to the 30th of September, there are lifeguards on duty, which provides an additional layer of security. Since wet clothes usually cause you to sink, it’s advised that you always go in the water with appropriate swim gear.
What Beaches In East Sussex Are Dog-Friendly?
Cooden Beach, Cuckmere Haven Beach, Fairlight Cove, Holywell Beach and Seaford are some of the beaches in East Sussex that are dog-friendly. Still, it’s important to check local signage, especially if you visit during the season, as the rules might change, and some beaches could have specific areas or times when dogs aren’t allowed.
Conclusion
Everyone can find something to enjoy at the best beaches in East Sussex. You can go and spend a family day with your young kids or enjoy the sunsets from one of the beach huts on a quiet beach. Dog walkers have awesome options too. Now all you need to do is pack your bags, hop into your rented vehicle and come have a holiday of a lifetime.
