Best Beaches on the East Norfolk Coast
With miles of beautiful coastline close by, Norfolk Seaside Escapes is a great base for discovering some of the best beaches near Scratby and Great Yarmouth. Whether you are looking for a peaceful dog walk, a classic bucket-and-spade beach day, a bracing coastal stroll, or somewhere to sit and watch the waves, there are plenty of lovely seaside spots within easy reach.
From the quieter sands of Scratby and Winterton to the traditional seaside atmosphere of Great Yarmouth and Gorleston, each beach has its own character and charm. Below are some of our favourite local beaches to visit during your stay.
Scratby Beach
Enjoy the simple pleasures of the Norfolk coast with a visit to Scratby Beach. With its wide sandy shoreline, fresh sea air and peaceful feel, it’s a lovely place for a relaxed walk, a paddle, building sandcastles, or simply finding a quiet spot to sit and take in the view.
Great Yarmouth Beach
Great Yarmouth Beach is a fantastic choice for a traditional family day at the seaside, with wide sandy stretches perfect for bucket-and-spade fun. With plenty of attractions, amusements and places to eat between Britannia Pier and Wellington Pier, it’s a lively spot with something for everyone to enjoy.
Gorleston Beach
Gorleston Beach is a beautiful sandy beach that’s popular with families, body-boarders, kite flyers, surfers and sandcastle builders. Just a short drive from Great Yarmouth, it’s a lovely spot for a relaxed beach day, a coastal walk, or simply enjoying the sea views.
Winterton-on-Sea Beach
Winterton-on-Sea Beach is a beautiful unspoilt stretch of Norfolk coastline, known for its wide sandy beach, rolling dunes and peaceful natural feel. It’s a lovely choice for a bracing walk, a quieter beach day, or simply enjoying the fresh sea air away from the busier seaside spots. With its wildlife-rich surroundings and relaxed atmosphere, it’s a great place to slow down and enjoy one of Norfolk’s most scenic coastal beaches.
Horsey Beach
Horsey Beach is one of Norfolk’s most memorable coastal spots, famous for its wild natural beauty and much-loved grey seal colony. It’s a wonderful place for a peaceful walk, wildlife watching and photography, especially in the winter months when seal pups can often be seen from a safe distance. Visitors should always follow local guidance, keep dogs under close control and give the seals plenty of space.
Caister-on-Sea Beach
Caister-on-Sea Beach is a lovely stretch of sandy Norfolk coastline, offering a quieter alternative to the busier seafront at Great Yarmouth. It’s a great spot for a relaxed walk, a family beach day, or simply enjoying the fresh sea air, with plenty of space to unwind and take in the coastal views. Close to Caister village and within easy reach of Scratby, it’s a peaceful and convenient beach to visit during your stay.
Hemsby Beach
Hemsby Beach is a popular sandy beach with a lively seaside feel, making it a great choice for families looking for a classic Norfolk beach day. With plenty of space for sandcastles, paddling and seaside walks, plus nearby amusements, cafés and takeaway spots, it’s ideal if you want a beach with a bit more going on. Just a short drive from Scratby, it’s a fun and easy place to visit during your stay.
Beaches Worth the Drive
Cromer Beach
Cromer is a charming traditional seaside town that has kept much of its original character and appeal. With its famous pier, sandy beach, independent shops and classic coastal atmosphere, it’s a lovely place to enjoy a relaxed day out by the sea.
Southwold Beach
Southwold Beach is a beautiful Suffolk seaside spot, known for its colourful beach huts, traditional pier, lighthouse and charming town centre. It’s a lovely choice for guests who fancy a longer day out, with sandy shores, independent shops, cosy cafés and plenty of classic coastal character. A little further from Scratby, but well worth the drive if you want to explore beyond Norfolk and enjoy one of the east coast’s most picturesque seaside towns.
Sea Palling Beach
Sea Palling Beach is a beautiful sandy beach on the Norfolk coast, popular with families thanks to its wide shoreline and sheltered bays created by the sea defences. It’s a lovely spot for a relaxed beach day, paddling, sandcastles or a coastal walk, with a friendly seaside feel and plenty of space to enjoy the fresh air. A little further from Scratby, it’s well worth the drive for guests wanting to explore another lovely part of the Norfolk coastline.
