Norfolk beaches are some of this fine county’s main attractions. With wild, wind-swept landscapes, cute seaside towns and wide swathes of golden sands, we’re super-lucky to have such beautiful destinations on our doorsteps.
So it’s probably about time I put together a rundown of my favourite Norfolk beaches…
Wells-Next-The-Sea, Norfolk
Wells-Next-The-Sea really does seem to have it all. Not only is there a traditional seafront promenade, (think fish and chips and ice cream) but this Norfolk beach is beautiful.
You can walk for miles on the pristine sand and then stop for a cup of tea and a slice of cake at the Wells Beach Cafe.
The only real issue for me is parking. Because it’s such a perfect seaside village, it’s very popular. And that means parking is a nightmare during high summer because so many people descend on the village. But that’s just a small quibble and not enough to make me avoid Wells-Next-The-Sea.
Gorleston-on-Sea, Norfolk
It may be Great Yarmouth’s neighbour, but Gorleston-on-Sea is a completely different beast.
For me, I love that it’s not built up but there’s still plenty to do. There’s a lovely long promenade along the beach, so if you don’t feel up to the exertion of walking on the sand, you can walk along the edge. The beach itself is clean and sandy too. Plus, you can get fish and chips and a cup of tea without walking too far. And I’ve never had an issue with parking in the town.
Gorleston beach is also one of the closest to Norwich. It takes around 40 minutes to drive from Norwich to Gorleston by car. If stretches of golden sand are your thing, then this is one of the best beaches near Norwich.
Caister-on-Sea, Norfolk
When I was a kid, my parents took us on holiday to Caister a couple of times. And it’s easy to see why.
It’s a largely unspoilt Norfolk beach and it stretches for miles. Plus, there’s hardly anything there, so it’s perfect for a restful afternoon gazing out to sea.
The gorgeous sand dunes hide most of the town from the beach and there are no arcades in sight. That said, I recommend taking a picnic with you, unless you fancy a walk back into the town for a bite to eat.
On the plus side, there’s a huge car park by the lifeboat station, so you shouldn’t have any problems on that front.
Alongside Gorleston, this is the closest beach to Norwich. It takes around 40 minutes to get here by car, too.
Weybourne, Norfolk
Okay, so you may have realised that there’s a bit of a theme here: I don’t like big seaside towns. I prefer my Norfolk beaches quiet and low-key. That’s one of the reasons I like Weybourne. It’s pebbly and a bit rugged and deserted. It’s great for a brisk yomp while enjoying a peaceful seascape. I love it!
Winterton-on-Sea, Norfolk
Less rugged, but typically deserted, Winterton-on-Sea is gorgeous. It has beautiful sand dunes leading down to a soft beach.
But what I really love is seeing the seals. While the crowds hurry to Horsey, Winterton tends to be a little bit quieter, so you can give these cute animals the space the need but still get close enough to see them.
Holkham, Norfolk
Do I even need to include a description of Holkham in my round-up of top Norfolk beaches? With miles and miles of unspoilt shallow beach leading out to the sea, it’s one of the most photographed places in the county.
Personally, I love that the trees shield you from civilisation, so when you’re walking on the beach, you could be back in time.* It’s just you and nature (and the 5 million other people enjoying the coastline).
*That’s probably why it was used in Shakespeare in Love.
What’s the best Norfolk beach?
Let me know which beaches you go back to time and again. I’d love to visit your favourites this summer! Simply send me a DM, or email me here.
