The three-day weekend is almost here, and with temperatures set to reach the high-teens across The Suffolk Coast, where better to spend the day than at the beach! Pack your picnic, pop on your flip flops and head to one of these 5 beaches...
1. Lowestoft
This week, the wide sandy beach at Lowestoft has once again received a Seaside Award, recognising the high standards of beach management, cleanliness, and safety. A favourite with families, the stretch of golden sands south of the Claremont Pier is lined with a promenade, boasting a cafe which serves ice creams, hot and cold drinks and snacks.
There are also showers and toilets available, so after a day of running in and out of the waves, you can rinse the sand off your feet and head into the villages of Pakefield, Kirkley or Lowestoft itself for a family meal.
2. Kessingland
Another beach to receive a Seaside Award, Kessingland sits next to the popular beach at Lowestoft, but is much quieter and more understated. With grassy dunes and old fishing boats lining the sands which form a bay, it's the perfect place to catch some rays whilst reading a book and enjoy some peace and tranquility. Dogs are welcome here too, so it can be a day out for the whole family, furry member included!
3. Southwold
The popular beach, which has once again been awarded Blue Flag status, Southwold is a top spot for those wanting to take a paddle in the sea and a stroll along the prom. After splashing about in the waves, head to the famous Pier for a walk along the prom and an ice cream.
A stop at Southwold Boating Lake and Tearooms for lunch should also be on your to-do list, and children will love playing in the paddle boats and a game of crazy golf.
And if you would like to call a little bit of the beach your own, hire a beach hut from Durrants Holidays during your stay!
4. Felixstowe
At the southernmost point of The Suffolk Coast, sits the traditional seaside town of Felixstowe. The sandy beach is lined with pastel coloured beach huts and is ideal for a fun day out. After a day soaking up the sun and splashing about in the waves, take a stroll through the Edwardian Seafront Gardens or head to Landguard Nature Reserve for a bike ride.
Watch the big ships come and go from the port whilst enjoying an ice cream at the View Point Cafe and discover Suffolk's military history with a visit to Landguard Fort.
5. Covehithe
Head to the remote beach at Covehithe and chances are you may not see anyone, save for an angler or lone dog walker! There are no facilities or places to grab an ice cream, but the landscape is spectacular.
Care should be taken walking along or close to the cliffs as due to the tides, they can be unstable. For more information on coastal walks, visit the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty website www.suffolkcoastandheaths.org