If you want to avoid the crowds and soak up the sounds of the waves crashing against the shore, The Suffolk Coast's wild beaches are just for you! With not an ice cream seller in sight, these remote beaches are wild, windswept and waiting to be discovered...
If you're looking for beach huts and buckets and spades, these beaches are not for you (we've got plenty of those too though!) and there's no toilets or car parks, so if it looks like there are lots of cars in these destinations, then be sure to use common sense on social distancing and opt for another stretch of coast.
Strong currents can be seen along the coast and with no lifeguards at these wilder beaches it's Important to keep safe and not put lives at risk when making a decision to swim. There's also no bins or recycling facilities, so please take your rubbish away with you and remember that the only thing you should leave behind are your footprints in the sand...
Covehithe
Probably the most remote beach on The Suffolk Coast, Covehithe beach is reached by a single track, so is only accessible on foot. On-street parking is available near the church, from which you can follow the footpath through fields and dunes to the beach.
The beach at Covehithe is a golden stretch of sand framed by imposing crumbling cliffs, with Benacre's lagoon and conservation area sitting to the south, the beach is dotted with the North Sea's offerings; sand blasted tree trunks of trees that once lined the cliff top.
Walberswick
The idyllic seaside village of Walberswick is home to a picture-postcard green, surrounded by pastel coloured cottages and villas, cafes, shops and pubs - all a stone's throw from the glorious beach. Walk over the bridge and out across the dunes and bask in the stunning views of Sizewell beach to the north and Southwold to the south.
Find a spot to sunbathe amongst the marram grass covered dunes or make your way towards the crashing waves for a paddle or swim before heading back into the village for fish and chips or hearty pub grub and a pint.
Dunwich
Once a thriving seaport and home to 8 churches, the village of Dunwich has been at the mercy of the North Sea over the years, with stories of church bells ringing from under the sea as parts of the village tumbled over the cliffs.
Today, the wide shingle beach is perfect for a dog walk, a spot of fishing or a paddle in the sea. Owned by the National Trust, the beach is surrounded by heath and marshes should you wish to continue you walk away from the shore.
Kessingland
One of The Suffolk Coast's best kept secrets, the large expanse of Kessingland beach is a sight to behold. There are a number of spots to park within the coastal village and as you make your way through the windswept dunes you are greeted with golden sands forming a spit. Depending on the time of year and tide, the sea retreats leaving tide pools, perfect for paddling in.
The beach is also home to nesting terns, this area is sectioned off for their protection, but you can often see these rare birds soaring through the skies during your visit.
Shingle Street
Shingle Street, ironically named because it's the only settlement in Suffolk without any streets, is a desolate spot which sits across the marshes on the far side of the village of Hollesley.
A haven for birds and wildlife bird and wildlife, the shingle beach forms a sheltered lagoon which although may look inviting, has a strong current so swimming is not advised.
*Please note: These are wild beaches with crumbling cliffs, no facilities and no lifeguard patrol. Please check tide times and visit responsibly.