Coastal campsites put the beach, the cliffs and the sea air right on your doorstep. This guide explains what to look for, then shares the seaside sites reviewed first-hand.
There’s nothing quite like waking up a short walk from the sea. For example, you can spend the day on the beach. Then head out on a cliff-top walk as the sun goes down.
However, coastal sites vary a lot. Some are big holiday parks with pools and entertainment. Others are quiet, simple sites with direct access to the sand. So it helps to know what you want before you book.
Everything here suits caravans, motorhomes and campervans. Touring with children? See the family-friendly campsites as well.
Some sites have a path straight to the sand. Others, however, need a short drive. So check the real distance, not just the advert.
Sea-view pitches are popular and often cost more. As a result, it’s worth booking them early, especially in summer.
Clifftop pitches can be very exposed. So peg the awning down well, and choose a sheltered spot if wind is forecast.
Inevitably, sea air and sand get everywhere. Therefore, give the caravan, awning and hitch a good rinse when you get home.
Naturally, seaside sites fill quickly in school holidays. Meanwhile, spring and autumn are often quieter and better value.
Choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. Read the RNLI beach safety tips before you go.
Every stretch of coast has its own character. Here are the ones covered on Caravan Adventuring so far.
Golden beaches, surf and dramatic coastal paths. However, the roads can be narrow, so plan your route with care.
Reviewed here: Trevornick Holiday Park.
Fossil beaches, cliff walks and pretty seaside towns. In fact, it’s one of the most popular coasts for touring.
Reviewed here: Newlands Holiday Park near Charmouth, and Sandford Holiday Park, a short drive from Poole and Bournemouth.
Wide sandy bays, mountains close by and a wilder feel. Also, some sites are simple and back to basics.
Reviewed here: Shell Island, for motorhomes and tents only.
Long sandy beaches and classic seaside resorts. Above all, it’s great value for a family break.
Reviewed here: North Shore Holiday Centre in Skegness.
White cliffs, seaside towns and easy access to the Channel crossings. So it’s handy before or after a trip abroad.
Reviewed here: Sandwich Lakes, within easy reach of the Kent coastline.
Northern Ireland’s famous coastline, with cliffs, castles and the Giant’s Causeway nearby.
Community Review: Drumaheglis Marina, a peaceful base for exploring it.
Caravan Adventuring personally visits every campsite in its official reviews. Of those, these are the ones by the sea.
A family-friendly coastal site with a pool, evening entertainment and crazy golf. It’s a strong base for a Cornish beach break.
Close to Charmouth and the Jurassic Coast. As a result, coastal walks and beach visits are right on the doorstep.
A large, lively holiday park near the beach. For example, there are pools, ten-pin bowling and evening entertainment.
On the Lincolnshire coast, with a playground, sports areas and an entertainment complex. Overall, it worked well as a family base.
A huge back-to-basics site with direct access to stunning beaches. Note that caravans aren’t allowed, but motorhomes and tents are.
Between Cannes and Saint-Tropez, with a free peak-season shuttle to the beach. Better still, there are six pools and a water park.
On the Costa Brava, with coach transfers to the beach. In addition, there are several pools and nightly entertainment.
Before you book, ask the site a few simple questions. They’ll help you get the pitch you’re picturing.
For more help, read how to choose a pitch.
Europe’s coastlines are a big draw, especially in early summer and autumn. For example, the Les Menhirs travel diary covers Carnac on the Brittany coast. Further south, Sandaya Riviera d’Azur and Cypsela both run beach transfers.
Planning a trip? Start with Caravanning in France and European Touring.
Often, yes, especially for sea-view pitches in summer. However, spring and autumn breaks are usually better value. Ellie’s Holiday Cost Calculator can help you compare.
No. Some coastal sites, such as Shell Island, don’t take caravans. Similarly, others have narrow lanes or steep access. So always check before you book.
Many are, but beach dog bans often apply in summer. So check the local beach rules. See the best dog-friendly caravan sites for ideas.
Rinse off salt and sand after the trip, and dry the awning before you pack it away. In addition, see the Caravan Maintenance guide for the yearly jobs.
Yes, if you’re walking along the beach or below cliffs. It’s easy to get cut off by a rising tide. So check tide times before you set out, and read the RNLI beach safety advice.
For school holidays and bank holidays, book as early as you can. Sea-view pitches go first. However, outside the peak season you can often find a pitch at shorter notice.
Definitely. Beaches are quieter, prices are often lower and some beaches lift their dog bans. See Winter Caravanning for colder trips.
Choose a sheltered pitch, and peg everything down firmly. The wet awning tips help in rough weather too.
Looking for the perfect seaside pitch? Ellie can suggest sites that match what you need.
Save campsites, plan upcoming stays and meet other tourers in the Community. Joining is free and takes under a minute.
