How to enjoy the beach in winter

When the temperatures drop and summer feels like a distant memory, there’s still plenty of magic to be found along one of our beautiful British coastlines. A winter beach trip offers a refreshing change of pace, allowing you to reconnect with nature, unwind, and embrace the serenity of the off season. Whether you’re after adventure or relaxation, visiting a Cornish or Norfolk beach in winter offers a unique charm and plenty of activities.  Here’s how to make the most of your seaside trip and embrace the magic of the colder months.

Kite flying

Let’s go fly a kite! The winter winds create the perfect conditions for kite flying along the coast. With quieter beaches and open skies, you can spend hours watching your kite dance in the brisk ocean breeze. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, kite flying is a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy the beach in winter.

Cold Water Swimming

For the adventurous, swimming in the sea in winter is an invigorating experience like no other. The cold water not only wakes up your senses but also offers numerous health benefits, including improved circulation and a boost to your immune system.

Tips for Winter Sea Swimming

Before taking the plunge, it’s important to be well-prepared:

1. Wear a wetsuit: A good wetsuit will help insulate your body and keep you warmer for longer.
2. Acclimatise gradually: Enter the water slowly to allow your body to adjust to the temperature.
3. Swim with a buddy: For safety, never swim alone in cold water.
4. Warm up afterwards: Have a thermos of hot tea or soup and dry clothes ready for when you leave the water.

For more guidance, explore this RNLI resource for more tips on cold water swimming.

Off Season Dog Walks

One of the best parts of visiting a beach in winter is the freedom it offers dog owners. Many beaches lift summer restrictions during the off-season, letting your furry friend roam freely, splash in the surf, and enjoy the fresh coastal air. Watergate Bay, just 3 miles from Fistral Beach near Padstow and Sun Haven, is the ultimate dog-friendly spot year-round. With miles of golden sand, stunning views, and plenty of space to explore, it’s a favourite for dog owners. The beach also boasts excellent facilities, including a dog friendly café. Then over in Norfolk, you’ve got Sea Palling that’s open year round and also happens to be walkable from Golden Beach, one of our owners only parks. 

Sunrise & Sunset Capture

Winter offers some of the most stunning sunrises and sunsets of the year, and the beach provides the perfect backdrop for these awe-inspiring views. The shorter days mean you don’t have to wake up too early or stay out too late to catch the golden hour. Bring your camera or simply take it all in—the vibrant colours reflecting off the water are unforgettable. Marazion Beach, close to Parbola, is a firm favourite for its breathtaking views of the iconic lighthouse. Over at Fistral Beach, near Newquay and our very own Sun Haven Holiday Park, you’ll find a stunning spot for sunrise and sunset, with surfers carving through the waves as the perfect backdrop.

Beach Runs 

For fitness enthusiasts, the beach in winter is the perfect place to stay active. Running along the shoreline offers a low-impact workout, with brisk weather adding an invigorating edge. The cooler temperatures help you maintain your pace, while the stunning scenery keeps you motivated. The rhythmic sound of the waves provides a calming soundtrack, making each step feel like part of a peaceful, energising experience.

Catch the Surf

Winter is prime surfing season in many coastal areas, and Cornwall is renowned for its world-class beaches. With larger and more consistent waves, winter attracts surfers seeking a challenge. The quieter beaches also make it a great time for beginners to book a lesson, with fewer crowds to navigate while learning. One of the most famous and best spots in Cornwall is Fistral Beach, known for its powerful waves and stunning scenery. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or just starting out, Fistral offers incredible conditions year round, with winter swells adding to the thrill.

Wildlife Spotting

The quieter winter months are perfect for spotting wildlife that you might miss in the busy summer season. You may even have the chance to tick off a few more of our Big Five during the winter. From migratory birds to seals basking along the shore, there’s plenty to see if you keep your eyes open. For instance, seal spotting in Norfolk is a popular winter activity, particularly near Waxham Sands, where colonies gather along the coastline at Horsey during pupping season. Similarly, Cornwall offers incredible wildlife experiences, with winter being a great time to spot seals, dolphins, and a variety of seabirds. The rugged Cornish coast is home to thriving marine life, and you can often see seals hauled up on the rocks or playing in the waves, making it a fantastic destination for nature lovers.

Beachcombing

The winter tides often wash up fascinating treasures onto our shorelines, making it an ideal time for beachcombing. From colourful shells and polished sea glass to driftwood and unusual rocks, there’s no telling what the ocean might have left behind. The colder months bring unique finds, with fewer people around to disturb the sands, making it even more peaceful. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach with a bag in hand, and you may discover hidden gems, from delicate starfish to the occasional piece of pottery or old fishing net. Each walk along the shore offers a chance for a new and unexpected discovery.

Which Beaches to Visit?

Wondering where to go for your next winter beach adventure? We have two parks in Cornwall that remain open through December, allowing you to fully enjoy the best of the beaches during the quieter season.

Top Recommendations:

• Harlyn Bay is a popular spot for both families and surfers, with golden sand, rock pools, and gentle waves—ideal for a relaxing day by the coast. Dog-friendly, with a café, public toilets, and parking nearby, it’s just a 10-minute drive from your Lovat Parks holiday home or lodge at Padstow Holiday Village. Whether you’re staying in a cosy Exclusive lodge or a Standard, Luxury or Premium holiday home, Harlyn Bay’s wide sandy expanse at low tide and its abundance of rock pools offer endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation, all just a short drive from your perfect Cornish escape.
• From Penmarlam Lodge Retreat, take a boat to Fowey’s Readymoney Cove, a peaceful sandy beach surrounded by cliffs near the River Fowey estuary. Flanked by St Catherine’s Castle and the historic town of Fowey, it remains a tranquil spot in winter for a scenic walk or a quiet moment by the sea. For a truly relaxing stay, consider booking one of our Exclusive Lodges or indulge in the ultimate escape with an Exclusive Lodge with a hot tub at Penmarlam Lodge Retreat if you’re staying with us this Christmas. 

Book Your Next Beach Break with Lovat Parks

There’s no better time to embrace the beauty of the beach than in winter. Whether you’re braving the waves, watching the sunrise, or enjoying the peace and quiet, a coastal getaway offers something for everyone. Ready to plan your escape? Book your next beach break with Lovat Parks and experience the magic of the coast, even in the colder months at Padstow or Penmarlam. 

Book now