Norfolk’s beaches come in all shapes and sizes. From the white sandy beaches of Brancaster to the bumpier, pebble beach of Weybourne. When looking at beaches to visit, it is important to check out everything that the area has to offer. Tide times and beach safety are two of the most important things to look at, as the tide can be dangerous. Making sure you know how quickly the tide comes in, where is safe to swim, if the beach is dog friendly and where the nearest toilets are, is a great starting point for your beach day out.

To help you with your search of the best Norfolk family friendly beaches, we have compiled a list of our 10 favourites:

1. Holkham Beach

Holkham is located around 3 miles from Wells-Next-The-Sea and is regarded as one of the best beaches in the UK. It’s a sandy beach that is popular with the likes of TV and film as well as the Queen’s Household Cavalry. There is parking and a delicious café to snack on when exploring the area. If your dog has come along for the holiday then they too can enjoy Holkham beach as it’s pet friendly.

2. Hunstanton

This is one of the better-known Norfolk Beaches and is ideal for families. There are rock pools, ice cream parlours, plenty of cafes and amenities and a funfair straight off the beach. Hunstanton beach faces west which gives the town its name ‘Sunny Hunny’ and is one of the best places in Norfolk for sunsets.

3. Brancaster

Brancaster is also on the list for being one of the best beaches in the UK. It is a white sandy beach and very popular with residents and tourists alike. It is important to check tide times here, as the water does cover the beach road at high tide. There are toilets and a small café close to the path which leads to the beach. Brancaster is a dog-friendly beach and located near to our Burnham Market holiday cottages.

4. Sheringham

Sheringham is a great location for a traditional seaside break. Sheringham is a buzzing and vibrant coastal town with great amenities, perfect for families. The beach is a blue flag beach and between May and September, it has a dog-friendly beach zone.

5. Cromer

Cromer is a great place to visit with children. Not only has it got some great things to do, such as arcades, shops and independent restaurants, you can also visit its famous pier which opened in 1901. Cromer has dog restrictions in the summer similar to Sheringham Beach.

6. West Runton

West Runton beach has a rich history. In 1990, a mammoth which dated back to the ice age was found on the beach. It is a sand and shingle beach and has rock pools when the tide goes out. It is a great place to take kids when you want them to learn, as well as have fun and explore. A dog-friendly, casual beach – but with not so many amenities as other coastal towns.

7. Sea Palling

Sea Palling beach is a blue flag beach and it is just 5 miles away from a nature reserve. It is known for its natural beauty and during certain months there are seals, therefore it does have a dog ban from May to September. It is a lovely place to take older children due it being a little more rustic and with few amenities in the local area.

8. Wells-next-the-sea

Another well-known beach and one not to be missed. Wells beach is part of Holkham and it is popular no matter the season. It has a Joules, a café, toilets and a shop just before heading onto the golden sands and sand dunes. Remember the pictures of over 100 pretty beach huts? This is where you’ll find them (and you can even rent them out!). It is dog friendly too and close to many of our Norfolk cottages by the sea.

9. Mundesley

Mundesley beach is considered one of the most beautiful in Norfolk. It has safe swimming at low tide and it has white sandy beaches. It is great for families as it is the perfect place for paddling.

10. Horsey Beach

The first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Horsey Beach is the seals. It’s a great place for seal watching in the winter months and the beach is unspoilt. There is a small car park or you can walk from the village which is about a mile and a half walk.

Norfolk really is the place to be when it comes to beaches. There are so many incredible areas to visit and explore as a family. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, then take a look at our North Norfolk cottages, there’s something for everyone.

Hugs,

The Norfolk Cottage Agency team

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