Beach Cottage, Anderby Creek, Lincolnshire
This creek is a secret locals-only area and the fisherman’s cottage is beach-hut perfect. Perched above dunes, its sky-blue colour makes you smile. Step inside and take in the sea views; even better from the decking and bedroom terrace. There’s a small cabin bedroom for two children downstairs but this is really a hideaway for two – or a creative soul with a novel in them. Take long walks on the beach (there’s a handy outdoor shower and dog-drying area), birdwatch, paint – or write that book. Eat fish and chips from the café and watch the sunset from your decking or the tiny garden’s romantic summerhouse.
Coastguard Cottages, Devon
Beautiful, seaside cottages at the most southerly point of Devon. Sleeping five, it is the perfect retreat for the whole family to enjoy. A delightful garden tumbles down to the coast path – in summer a mass of seaside-loving flowers. You could easily stay put but venture along the coast you must – either direction will lead to some of the loveliest beaches in Devon. Inside, the owners have decorated with love and care. A dramatically decorated snug with deep dark walls and white painted floorboards is the place to curl up in the evening while someone else gets on with the cooking, but it’s the seaside rooms that will particularly delight with their thrilling views and sounds.
Pitts Deep Cottage, Hampshire
At the end of an isolated track, with Lymington three miles behind, you emerge to find a magical shoreline, and a cottage spacious and bright that’s fit for nine. It has its own mooring and was once a smugglers’ inn. Now dunes and garden (with barbecue) blend into one, waves lap, gulls cry, and shingle paths weave through thrift and sea lavender to the beach. Inside, all is airy and calm with a coastal feel. There’s vibrant pottery, textiles and art that add a zing and vintage old mixes with clean-cut modern. In winter, head back to the wood-burner after a blustery walk. In summer, spend all your time outside and only come in to chill your drinks.
The Beach Hive, Sussex
Pentonwarra, Cornwall
On its own private headland between two beaches – a sandy one for swimming and surfing, the other for exploring rock pools – this is an enchanting spot for all the family. Explore the long stretches of coastal path in either direction, and walk the gentle 2-mile track to Padstow. Go barefoot all week and bask on the terrace overlooking Rocky Beach, where the sun shines from late morning until the invariably spectacular sunset – you’re so close to the water you can leave your towel here or lower a basket down for a beach picnic. Kids will love running around on the large level garden overlooking Trevone Bay while the grown-ups light up the barbecue and enjoy a beer.
The Beach Hut at Carswell, Devon
Find this beach hut a 15-minute walk from your car, down a steep path to your own private beach – the incredible sea views alone make it worthwhile. The brave will want to dip in the bracing sea and warm straight back up in the wood-fired hot tub. Evenings are for cooking dinner on the barbecue and gazing out at the stunning South Devon coast – all you’ll hear is the crackle of flames and the waves crashing against the rocks; or snuggle around the wood-burner on cooler evenings (don’t expect phone signal or internet here). This is a perfect spot for couples who want to get away from it all.
More inspiration…
Coastal Retreats
Discover our collection of self-catering homes, hotels and B&Bs across the UK and Europe, all within three miles of the coast. Explore the rugged coastline of Cornwall, the peaceful beaches in Scotland and soak up the sea air and glitz in the Cote d’Azur.
Winter Blues Wanderlist
We think winter gives the blues a bad name. View our Wanderlist of 30 places that will lull you into serenity with their ever-changing views.
Europe's best secret beaches
Our blog article features five of our favourite secret beaches across Europe. They might take some getting to, but they are definitely worth it.
