Luckily there are also plenty of lesser-known coastal areas where you can while away an afternoon without being bothered by crowds. These are 25 of the best hidden beaches in the UK - from Cornwall to the Scottish Highlands.
17. Mellon Udrigle, Highlands
Mellon Udrigle offers superb views of Suilven and Stac Pollaidh mountains and the Isle of Lewis can even be seen on a clear day. The small seaside hamlet leads down to the sea and white sands (Photo: Shutterstock) Photo: Shutterstock
18. Castlerock Beach, Northern Ireland
This beach boasts some of the oldest dated sand dunes, which run up to a National Trust bird sanctuary. You may even be able to spot seals and porpoises feeding in the nearby estuary in Barmouth (Photo: Shutterstock) Photo: Shutterstock
19. Broad Sands Beach, Devon
Broad Sands Beach is nestled in wooded cliffs and is home to secret caves which are waiting to be explored. There’s also an island lookout which is great for children, with a pathway made up of 200 steps leading down to the sandy beach (Photo: Shutterstock) Photo: Shutterstock
20. Haverigg Beach, Cumbria
Haverigg beach is located at the mouth of the Duddon Estuary, boasting views over the Lake District fells. Haverigg features large sand dunes, a shingle beach and a large vast expanse of sand (Photo: Shutterstock) Photo: Shutterstock