7 fabulous coastal breaks in South East England

Looking for the perfect escape to the coast?  In this post, we’re sharing 7 fabulous coastal breaks in South East England, ideal for everything from romantic trips to family adventures and spontaneous weekend getaways.

Whether you’re planning a short break by the sea, a fun-filled family weekend away, or a relaxing couple’s minibreak on the South Coast, these destinations offer something for everyone.  Even better?  We’ve personally tried and tested each one, so you can trust they’re as amazing as they sound.

Our handpicked coastal breaks include charming seaside towns across Kent, Sussex, and East Dorset, all easily accessible from London and Surrey.

So if you’re dreaming of salty sea air, fresh fish and chips, and coastal charm, keep reading for our top picks for short coastal breaks in South East England.

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First up on our list of coastal breaks in South East England is Whitstable, a picturesque harbour town on the Kent coast, that’s fast become a favourite for weekend getaways and day trips from London.  With its blend of old-school seaside charm and modern flair, Whitstable is ideal for short breaks and romantic coastal escapes.

Stroll along the working harbour, browse local galleries, and don’t miss the chance to sample the town’s famous world-class oysters, a true highlight for seafood lovers.  Whether you’re in search of a chilled-out romantic trip or a quirky weekend adventure, Whitstable has it all.

Start your weekend getaway in Whitstable with a stroll around the bustling harbour.  As a working port, you’ll still spot fishing boats bringing in the day’s catch, especially the town’s famous oysters, which don’t get any fresher than this.

Next, explore Whitstable Harbour Market, with its collection of artisan stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to locally produced treats.

Although Whitstable Beach is shingle rather than sand, it’s a lovely walk along the seafront to Tankerton, where rows of colourful beach huts line the shore.  On the way back, stop off for a classic cream tea at Whitstable Castle, a charming spot overlooking the town.

Of course, no trip to Whitstable is complete without snapping a photo outside the iconic pink façade of Wheelers Oyster Bar—one of the most Instagrammable spots in town. And don’t forget to allow time to browse the independent shops along Harbour Street.

Click here for more information about how to spend a weekend in Whitstable.

Next on our list of the best coastal breaks in South East England is Rye, one of the most picturesque towns in East Sussex.  With its cobbled lanes, crooked half-timbered houses, and centuries-old inns, Rye is perfect for a romantic weekend getaway or a peaceful short break by the coast.

Start your weekend break in Rye with a relaxed stroll through the town centre, where you’ll find a great mix of art galleries, antique shops, and cosy cafés, perfect for soaking up the town’s charming atmosphere.

Rye is steeped in history, and nowhere captures its timeless appeal better than Mermaid Street.  With its cobblestone path, half-timbered houses, and the famous Mermaid Inn, this picture-perfect lane is often hailed as one of the prettiest streets in England.  For more history, visit Rye Castle or pass through the ancient Landgate Arch, a reminder of Rye’s medieval past.

Although Rye was once a coastal port, it now sits about two miles inland.  For a taste of sea air, head to Rye Harbour or enjoy a peaceful walk along the stony Winchelsea Beach.

If you’re looking for a traditional sandy beach for your weekend getaway, you will love Camber Sands.  Just a short drive from Rye, this expansive beach stretches five miles into Kent, making it a favourite for family beach holidays.

Nature enthusiasts will love exploring the nearby Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, home to diverse wildlife and scenic walking trails. And for more history, take a walk out to Camber Castle, a 16th-century fortress once built by King Henry VIII to defend the coast.

Click here for more details on how to spend a weekend in Rye.

One of the coolest seaside towns on the South Coast, Brighton is bursting with energy.  Known as the ultimate party town by the sea, it’s popular with day-trippers from London, but also makes a fantastic destination for longer weekend getaways and short breaks in South East England.

If you’re wondering what to do on a weekend getaway to Brighton, you’ll be spoiled for choice.  This lively seaside city is absolutely packed with fun activities, iconic sights, and quirky experiences for all ages.

By day, explore the buzzing Brighton promenade, home to a variety of classic family attractions.  Stroll along the famous Brighton Palace Pier, where you’ll find arcades, fairground rides, and plenty of candyfloss.  Then take in the sweeping views from the BA i360 observation tower, or pop into the  Upside-Down House for some truly gravity-defying photo ops.

Away from the seafront, lose yourself in The Lanes, Brighton’s historic maze of narrow streets filled with vintage boutiques, independent shops, and trendy cafés.

Don’t miss a visit to the stunning Royal Pavilion, a former royal palace with exotic architecture and opulent interiors.  The surrounding gardens offer a peaceful spot to unwind after a busy morning of sightseeing.

As the sun sets, Brighton transforms into a nightlife hotspot.  With an endless choice of pubs, restaurants, and clubs, it’s the perfect place to celebrate a hen night, birthday weekend, or just enjoy a fun-filled night out.  The city also boasts a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, making it one of the most inclusive and welcoming destinations in the UK.

Click here for more information on how to spend your time in Brighton.

Next on our list of fabulous coastal breaks in South East England is the delightful town of Broadstairs.  Often called “the jewel in Thanet’s crown,” this charming coastal spot is one of the prettiest seaside towns in Kent and makes an ideal destination for a weekend getaway.

Broadstairs is best known for its beautiful sandy beaches, including the much-loved Viking Bay, which is considered one of the best beaches in South East England. With its classic seafront promenade, traditional beach huts, and sweeping bay, Broadstairs has a timeless seaside appeal.

A weekend break in Broadstairs is all about beach days, coastal walks, and good old-fashioned seaside fun.  Start your trip with a visit to Viking Bay, the town’s main beach and one of the best sandy beaches in South East England.  With its golden sands, gentle waves, and traditional seaside vibe, it’s a favourite for family adventures and romantic coastal strolls alike.

Broadstairs is also steeped in literary history.  Charles Dickens spent many summers here, and you can learn more about his connection to the town at the Dickens House Museum.

For food, Broadstairs has everything from traditional fish and chips to trendy bistros and beachfront cafés.  Grab lunch with a sea view or treat yourself to a local favourite, Morelli’s Gelato, a retro ice cream parlour that’s been on the seafront since the 1930s.

One of the largest and most vibrant seaside resorts in South East England, Bournemouth is a fantastic choice for a fun-filled weekend getaway.  This lively coastal town offers something for everyone, making it especially popular for family adventures, short breaks, and sunny beach holidays.

If you’re after a bustling resort with endless family attractions, a buzzing town centre, and a huge variety of things to do, Bournemouth ticks all the boxes.  It’s also home to one of the longest stretches of sandy beach in the region.

Without doubt, one of the top things to do on a weekend getaway to Bournemouth is spending a full day at the beach.  With 7 miles of golden sand, Bournemouth boasts one of the best beaches on the South Coast, perfect for sunbathing, sandcastle building, and swimming.

At the heart of the beach is the lively Bournemouth Pier, a must-visit attraction packed with family fun.  From buzzing amusement arcades and seaside shops to a thrilling zip wire and indoor activity centre, there’s something to keep everyone entertained.

For more family-friendly attractions, check out Oceanarium – The Bournemouth Aquarium, where you can get up close with sharks, turtles, and even penguins.  Or have a laugh with the kids at the crazy golf course and take in the views from the Bournemouth Big Wheel on the seafront.

For a more relaxed pace, take a stroll through the peaceful Pavilion Gardens, a beautifully landscaped green space that’s perfect for a picnic or a quiet moment away from the buzz of the beachfront.

Click here for more great days out in Dorset or amazing things to do on the Jurassic Coast.

Next on our list of top coastal breaks in South East England is Hastings, a characterful seaside town in East Sussex with a rich history and a quirky, creative vibe.  Located on the South Coast, not far from Rye, Hastings offers a great mix of culture, coastal scenery, and family fun.

You’ve likely heard of the famous Battle of Hastings from 1066, though the actual battlefield is located in the nearby town of Battle.  Still, Hastings itself has plenty of its own historic charm, from medieval streets and a working fishing quarter to its hilltop castle ruins and thriving arts scene.

Hastings is a perfect destination for anyone seeking a mix of history, coastal charm, and family fun.  Start your visit by heading to the ruins of Hastings Castle, a Norman fortress that overlooks the town and the sea.  You can reach the castle by one of the historic funicular railway lifts, which also take you up to Hastings Country Park.

In Hastings Old Town, take your time exploring the cobbled streets lined with traditional old pubs and curiosity shops.

Or, for a taste of Hastings’ seafaring past, head down to The Stade, home to the historic Net Huts, still used by local fishermen today.  Down by the seafront, you can also visit the Hastings Contemporary Art Museum.

At the other end of the promenade, don’t miss Hastings Pier, which has recently undergone a £14 million renovation.  It’s a wonderful spot for a leisurely walk or to enjoy the amusements on the pier.

If you’re visiting with kids, Hastings has a great range of family-friendly attractions.  The Blue Reef Aquarium is a must-visit, showcasing local marine life and exotic sea creatures.  For a bit of fun, take the kids to the crazy golf course, or head over to Smugglers’ Adventure. This exciting attraction lets families explore the caves where smugglers once hid their goods, an immersive way to learn about Hastings’ smuggling history.

Click here for more information on how to spend a weekend in Hastings.

Last on our list of fabulous coastal breaks in South East England is the charming town of Deal in Kent.  This peaceful seaside town located between Ramsgate and Dover is the perfect spot for a relaxing weekend getaway.  Known for its historic charm and beautiful coastal views, Deal is ideal for those looking to unwind by the sea.

If you’re planning a weekend getaway to Deal, one of the top attractions is Deal Castle, a stunning artillery castle built by Henry VIII to protect the Kent coastline.  It’s a fascinating piece of history, offering great views of the sea and plenty to explore inside.

Deal is a quaint seaside town with a relaxed vibe, making it perfect for exploring on foot.

Just a mile down the seafront is Walmer Castle & Gardens, a beautiful spot for a leisurely walk or a peaceful afternoon.  The castle is known for its lush gardens and rich history, having served as a residence for several notable figures, including the Duke of Wellington.

On the second day of your weekend break in Deal, take a short trip inland to the medieval town of Sandwich, another gem in the Kent area.  With its cobbled streets, historic buildings, and lovely riverside setting, Sandwich is a wonderful spot for a relaxing day out.

Click here for more information on the best things to do in Deal.

You may also like:

• Romantic breaks in Hampshire
• A weekend break in Weymouth, Dorset
• 10 of the best UK staycation ideas for families
• The perfect 3-day New Forest itinerary
• Romantic breaks in Surrey

Where’s your favourite place for a coastal break in South East England?  We’d love to hear your comments below.

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