Norfolk beaches: Our top 8 beaches on the Norfolk Coast
Tuesday 15th April, 2025 by Host & Stay
When it comes to breathtaking coastlines, few places rival the beauty and charm of Norfolk. Stretching across miles of golden sands, rugged cliffs, and scenic dunes, Norfolk offers a variety of coastal gems perfect for a relaxing getaway. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a fun-filled family day out, or a dog-friendly spot with your four-legged friends, we’ve highlighted our favourite Norfolk beaches and everything you need to know about them!
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Holkham Beach
Tucked away on the stunning north Norfolk coast, Holkham Beach is one of the UK’s most breathtaking and unspoiled stretches of sand. You might recognise Holkham from the big screen as it famously appeared in the closing scenes of Shakespeare in Love. Once you see it, you’ll understand why filmmakers are drawn here!
Holkham Beach is also part of the Holkham National Nature Reserve, one of the largest in England. The landscape has a unique mix of salt marshes, pinewoods, dunes, and grazing marshes which are a haven for wildlife and nature lovers.
If you’re looking for Norfolk beaches which are dog friendly, Holkham is a fantastic choice! It’s dog friendly all year round but there are bird nesting zones (usually signposted) during spring and early summer.
Useful information about Holkham Beach:
Location
Holkham Beach is accessed via Lady Anne’s Drive, just off the A149 near Wells-next-the-Sea (NR23 1RG).
Is Holkham Beach dog friendly?
Yes, but restrictions apply in some areas during nesting season so it’s always best to check the signs.
Facilities
Toilets, cafe nearby, and picnic areas.
Parking
There is a large pay-and-display car park at Lady Anne’s Drive with all-day and short-stay options available.
Public transport
Holkham is accessible via several bus services including the Coastliner 36 operated by Lynx which connects King’s Lynn, Hunstanton, and Fakenham, with stops in Holkham. Other routes include the 26A and 201, both operated by Sanders Coaches, which link Holkham with Burnham Market, North Creake, and Fakenham as well as Wicken Green and Wells-next-the-Sea.
Access
The final approach to the beach from the car park involves a steep slope and sandy terrain which could be challenging for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Wells-next-the-Sea Beach
Also in North Norfolk, you’ll find Wells-next-the-Sea Beach. Famous for its endless sandy stretches backed by rolling dunes and fragrant pinewoods, Wells Beach combines natural beauty with family friendly fun making it a great choice for holidaymakers of all ages.
At low tide, the beach is a vast, flat expanse ideal for beach games, kite flying, and sandcastle building. At high tide, the gentle waves invite paddling and splashing making it perfect for little ones to enjoy.
We can’t feature Wells Beach without mentioning their iconic beach huts! Painted in soft pastels and bold brights, they add a nostalgic charm to the shore and they’re one of the most photographed sights in Norfolk!
A short walk away, you’ll find Wells-next-the-Sea town and its bustling quay. Home to fish and chips, ice cream, amusements, and boat trips, the town is packed with charm. You can even catch the seasonal Wells Harbour Railway, a miniature train that runs from the town to the beach (great fun for all the family!).
Useful information about Wells-next-the-Sea Beach:
Location
Wells-next-the-Sea Beach is located at the end of Beach Road (NR23 1DR)
Is Wells-next-the-Sea Beach dog friendly?
Yes, with dog-free zones.
Facilities
Cafe, toilets, and shop.
Parking
There’s a large, pay-and-display car park located right by the beach entrance.
Public transport
Wells-next-the-Sea is well-connected by a network of bus services. Sanders Coaches operate a number of services including the Coasthopper CH1 which runs along the coast, connecting Wells-next-the-Sea with Cromer, passing through Stiffkey, Morston, Blakeney, and Cley-next-the-Sea. Lynx also operates the Coastliner 36 route linking Wells-next-the-Sea with King’s Lynn, Hunstanton, Burnham Market, and Fakenham.
Access
The main car park provides direct access with a ramp leading to the beach. The ramp is quite steep so care is recommended for wheelchair users.
Hunstanton Beaches
If you’re dreaming of a traditional seaside escape with a twist, Hunstanton on the north Norfolk coast is just the spot. Affectionately known as ‘Sunny Hunny’, it’s one of our favourites when it comes to Norfolk beaches as it’s one of the only places on the east coast where you can watch the sun set over the sea due to its west facing position. It is also home to one of Norfolk’s most iconic natural sights – the beautiful striped cliffs with layers of red and white rock.
Hunstanton boasts not one, but two distinct beaches. The main beach is a mix of sand and shingle and is backed by a lively Victorian promenade lined with amusements and attractions. Ideal for families with children, there is a lifeguard in operation during the summer months and plenty to do nearby.
Old Hunstanton Beach is just a short walk north and is much quieter than the main beach. It offers soft golden sands, grassy dunes and charming beach huts. It’s a favourite for dog walkers, as the beach is dog friendly all year round, and those looking to escape the crowds. It’s also a fantastic spot to start a walk along the Norfolk Coast Path!
Useful information about Hunstanton Beaches
Location
Hunstanton is easily accessible via the A149 coast road. Use the postcode PE36 5BA for the central promenade or PE36 6EL for Old Hunstanton cliffs.
Are Hunstanton beaches dog friendly?
Seasonal restrictions apply (May – October) at Hunstanton main beach but Old Hunstanton Beach is dog-friendly all year round.
Facilities
Toilets, cafes, amusement arcades and shops.
Parking
Hunstanton is very visitor friendly, with plenty of pay and display parking. South Promenade Car Park is close to the funfair and beach cafes. Cliff Top Car Park is a great option for scenic views and access to Old Hunstanton. Seagate East Car Park is convenient for access to the main beach and the town centre.
Public transport
Regular buses connect Hunstanton to nearby towns. Lynx operates several services including the 34 and 35 which travel to King’s Lynn. There is also the Coastliner 36 route which links Kings Lynn to Fakenham with stops in Hunstanton and Wells-next-the-Sea.
Access
Hunstanton main beach has sloped access points and ramps down to the sand/shingle areas, particularly near the South Promenade area. The seafront promenade is flat and paved. Hunstantan Old Beach is reachable via paths and beach boardwalks. It doesn’t have a formal promenade or full facilities, so access is a little more limited.
Cromer Beach
Cromer’s award-winning beach is a mix of golden sand and shingle. With a traditional promenade and colourful beach huts, it’s no surprise it’s often peoples favourite beach in Norfolk. Cromer Beach is split into two main areas; the East Beach is quieter and more natural whereas the West Beach is livelier and close to the pier, amusements, and cafes.
We can’t mention Cromer without talking about its iconic Grade II listed Victorian pier! Home to the famous Cromer Pier Show, it’s the UK’s only remaining full-season end-of-pier show. No trip to Cromer is complete without trying its famous crab too! Caught in the North Sea, this local delicacy can be enjoyed in many of the restaurants in town.
Offering plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle building, this stunning Blue Flag beach is a great choice for everyone.
Useful information about Cromer Beach
Location
Cromer Beach is located in the heart of Cromer (NR27 9HE).
Is Cromer Beach dog friendly?
Seasonal restrictions are in place on the main beach by the pier from May – October but dogs are welcome all year round on East Beach.
Facilities
Toilets, cafes, amusement arcades, shops.
Parking
There are several parking options in Cromer. Runton Road Car Park (NR27 9AU) is a large, clifftop car park with views and direct access to the beach via steps or sloped paths. Meadow Road Car Park (NR27 9DX) is a short walk to the town and beach. Town centre parking is also available, but it can get busy in peak season.
Public transport
Cromer Railway Station is part of the Bittern Line operated by Greater Anglia. This line offers regular services between Norwich and Sheringham, providing convenient connections to the broader rail network.
As well as trains, Cromer also has fantastic bus routes. The main bus station is conveniently located between the seafront and the town centre, at the junction of Prince of Wales Road and Cadogan Road. The popular Coasthopper CH1 and CH2 operate in Cromer connecting scenic coastal towns Wells-next-the-Sea and North Walsham.
Access
While the promenade and pier areas of Cromer Beach are accessible, direct access to the sandy beach can be challenging due to steep ramps and soft sand. Beach wheelchairs will be available to hire from Spring / Summer 2025.
Great Yarmouth Beach
Great Yarmouth Beach is one of the UK’s most iconic seaside destinations so we couldn’t miss it from our list! The beach stretches for miles, so you’ll be able to find a spot that suits best. From the bustling Central Beach to quieter spots north and south of the town, there is something to suit everyone here.
If you’re looking to be in all of the action, the Central Beach is right in front of one of the UK’s liveliest seafronts known as the Golden Mile. Packed with two piers, amusements, funfairs, mini golf, a circus, theatre shows, cafes, and fish and chips, you won’t tire of things to do here. Perfect for families, there is plenty to keep the kids entertained!
For those looking for somewhere quieter away from the hustle and bustle, the North and South Beaches might be more your style. The North Beach has natural sand dunes and is great for relaxing and enjoying dog walks. The South Beach is often used by locals and is the most peaceful of the three.
Useful information about Great Yarmouth Beach
Location
Great Yarmouth is located on the east coast of Norfolk. Use the postcode NR30 2EN for the seafront / pier area.
Is Great Yarmouth Beach dog friendly?
Seasonal restrictions apply on the Central Beach between May – October but dogs are welcome all year round on the North and South Beaches.
Facilities
Toilets, showers and foot washers, deck chair hire (seasonal), shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs.
Parking
Seafront parking is available along Marine Parade and the nearby side roads. There are also a number of pay and display car parks including St. Nicholas Car Park (NR30 1NN) and near Wellington Pier (NR30 3JG).
Public transport
Great Yarmouth Station on Acle New Road has regular services to Norwich departing approximately every hour. The journey takes around 30 minutes and offers connections to broader national rail services from there.
Market Gates Bus Station is located in the town centre just a short walk from the seafront. First Bus operates several routes linking Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft. Coastal Clipper services (1 & 1A) connect Martham, Hemsby, Caister, Great Yarmouth, Gorleston, Hopton, and Lowestoft, with services running up to every 30 minutes on weekdays and hourly on Sundays and public holidays.
Access
Great Yarmouth Beach is accessible for those with pushchairs and individuals with disabilities. Specially designed beach wheelchairs are available to hire in Great Yarmouth to help users navigate the sandy beach with ease. Bookings can be made online, and on the day of use, a code is provided to access the wheelchair from a secure kiosk.
Sheringham Beach
Nestled between cliffs and heathland on the stunning North Norfolk coast, Sheringham Beach is a traditional seaside treasure that’s popular amongst families and walkers. Part of the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you can expect beautiful views here.
At high tide, the beach is stony and pebbly but when the tide goes out a large stetch of sand is revealed. It’s perfect for rock pooling, fossil hunting and paddling. We always recommend checking the tide times to catch the sand at its best. You can even hire a beach hut on the promenade and BBQs are permitted on the beach so you can really make the day of it.
When it comes to exploring the town of Sheringham, there’s so much to discover. From independent shops and boutiques to cafes and pubs, you won’t tire of finding things to do. There is a traditional market on during the peak season too!
Useful information about Sheringham Beach
Location
The beach is right in front of the town centre (NR26 8BG takes you to the seafront area).
Is Sheringham Beach dog friendly?
Seasonal restrictions are in place between May – October. Outside of these months, you’re welcome to bring your pup on Sheringham Beach.
Facilities
Toilets, showers, beach huts for hire, and cafes.
Parking
There are multiple pay and display car parks within walking distance of the beach. Cliff Road, Morris Street, and Station Road car parks are the popular choices. Street parking is limited in the high season, so we recommend arriving early for the best spots.
Public transport
Located at the southern edge of the town centre, Sheringham train station provides regular services to Cromer and Norwich, with trains typically running hourly.
Adjacent to the mainline station, the heritage North Norfolk Railway (also known as the Poppy Line) operates steam and diesel trains between Sheringham and Holt, with a stop at Weybourne.
Sheringham is also well served by several bus routes which are primarily operated by Sanders Coaches. You can hop on the Coasthopper (CH1) which runs along the coast, connecting Sheringham with Cromer and Wells-next-the-Sea.
Access
The beach is backed by a long, flat promenade that is accessible to wheelchairs and mobility scooters, providing a smooth surface for easy movement along the seafront. There are ramps from the promenade down to the beach, facilitating access for pushchairs and wheelchairs. However, it’s important to note that the beach is composed of sand, shingle, and cobbles, which can be uneven and may pose challenges for standard wheelchairs. Sheringham does offer beach wheelchairs for hire to help navigate the sandy terrain.
Gorleston-on-Sea Beach
Gorleston Beach is a hidden gem, offering a long stretch of golden sand. Popular with families and surfers, it provides a more laid-back atmosphere compared to nearby Great Yarmouth.
The beach at Gorleston stretches over two miles offering ample space for sunbathing, beach games, and walks. There are plenty of family friendly amenities on offer here if you’re travelling with little ones including a children’s splashpad and a model yacht pond. The grassy cliffs above the beach are also home to pitch and putt, bowling greens, tennis and basketball courts, and a children’s playground.
Useful information about Gorleston-on-Sea Beach
Location
Use the postcode NR31 6DQ which takes you near the main promenade and beach area.
Is Gorleston-on-Sea Beach dog friendly?
Seasonal restrictions are in place between May – October. However, dogs are allowed all year round on the beach area south of the tennis courts which offers a more open and less crowded environment. Dogs are welcome on the promenade at all times but must be kept on a lead.
Facilities
Toilets, amusement arcades, shops, cafes.
Parking
There is ample parking in Gorleston-on-Sea. Free options include Church Road, Baker Street, and Brush Quay. Alternatively there is pay and display parking at South Beach Parade Car Park and Gorleston High Street.
Public transport
While Gorleston-on-Sea doesn’t have its own train station, nearby Great Yarmouth Station offers regular services to Norwich.
Gorleston has fantastic bus services operated by First Norfolk & Suffolk. You can hop on the X1 & X11 (Coastlink) for services running between Norwich, Great Yarmouth, Gorleston, and Lowestoft, with buses operating up to every 15 minutes on weekdays and every 30 minutes on Sundays.
Access
While the promenade is accessible, some access points to the beach may involve steep steps. However, there is a paved, roll-in entrance, though it can be challenging to navigate. Specially designed beach wheelchairs are available to hire in Gorleston to help users navigate the sandy beach with ease and more information can be found online here.
Mundesley Beach
A charming and quieter beach, Mundesley is a fantastic choice for families. Nestled on Norfolk’s north coast, it’s celebrated for its pristine sands, family friendly atmosphere, and a range of amenities. It is Blue Flag awarded and often considered one of the finest Norfolk beaches. With a promenade lined with colourful beach huts and backed by cliff top gardens, Mundesley is packed with charm.
The village of Mundesley is a wonderful place to stay if you’re looking to relax. Home to Mundesley Maritime Museum, believed to be one of England’s smallest museums, you can get an insight into the village’s rich maritime heritage. Alternatively, you can enjoy the cafes, restaurants, and shops on offer. The village is also an excellent base for walks as it’s surrounded by scenic countryside.
Useful information about Mundesley Beach
Location
Use the postcode NR11 8BG which takes you to the main Beach Road car park.
Is Mundesley Beach dog friendly?
Dogs are not permitted on the section of the beach directly opposite the promenade between May – October. On the promenade itself, dogs must be kept on a lead at all times. However, dogs are welcome to roam freely north and south of the promenade area, where there are no restrictions.
Facilities
Toilets, showers, cafe and shops.
Parking
Beach Road Car Park (NR11 8BG) is a pay and display car park near the beach with approximately 80 spaces. During peak seasons, additional parking is available in Gold Park next to the main car park.
Public transport
Mundesley is well-served by multiple bus routes connecting it to nearby towns and villages. Route 5 connects North Walsham, Mundesley, and Cromer. Route X55 links Norwich, North Walsham, and Mundesley.
Access
Access to the beach from the promenade is via ramps, which are accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. However, the ramps lead down a cliffside and while the descent is manageable, the return incline may be challenging for those with limited mobility.
Stay in Norfolk
At Host & Stay we offer a variety of accommodation options in Norfolk, from charming cottages to beautiful homes. Perfect for solo adventures, dog friendly stays, romantic retreats and family holidays, there is something for everyone here. Wherever you choose, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable stay in Norfolk.
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