The best sea views to wake up to

If you don't live by the coast, there's no better way to start a day than opening your curtains to a blanket of blue sea and there are plenty of unique and charming UK holidays and holiday rental cottages dotted over the country where this can be a reality. 

Here are some of our favourite seaside destinations which offer the best views of the coast.

Even if you’ve lived your whole life in the UK, there’s always somewhere new to discover. Find out more here

Portreath, Cornwall

With a pretty harbour, glorious cliffs, traditional pubs and nature trails close by, Portreath is the perfect base for exploring all that Cornwall has to offer.

Where to stay: The Georgian boutique hotel Penventon Park provides a luxurious stay, complete with spa and a gin bar, or book one of the many local cottages in the area, some with sea views.

More information: www.visitcornwall.com

Instow, Devon

The sleepy seaside village of Instow provides an ideal setting for a day by the sea and a seafood lunch with gorgeous uninterrupted views across the bay towards Appledore. Nature-lovers might enjoy a walk over the sand dunes to observe rare orchids, while cyclists can follow the Tarka Trail, a 180 mile stretch of cycle paths making the most of disused railway lines in the area.

Where to stay: there's no shortage of picturesque cottages in Instow, or for the hotel experience try The Commodore, right on the waterfront.

More information: www.visitdevon.co.uk

Seil, Argyll and Bute

Seil in the north west of Scotland, on the Slate Islands, is the perfect seaside retreat for a bit of peace and quiet and nature. As well as being a great base for a visit to the local whisky distilleries, golfing, fishing and cycling are all available locally too. Separated from the mainland by the narrow Clachan Sound, this is surely one of the most scenic spots in Argyll and Bute.

Where to stay: the ex-mining village of Ellenabeich is now home to a thriving community of artists, and has plenty of holiday cottages to choose from.

More information: www.visitscotland.com

Sennen, Cornwall

Situated in one of the most south-westerly points in England, you'll find stunning views over the bay and Sennen Cove. The landscape here is rugged and bare due its location on the Land's End granite, and the Land's End landmark is not far.

Places to stay nearby: there plenty of pretty cottages around Sennen Cove.

More information: www.visitcornwall.com

Isle of Skye

If you're thinking of visiting the wonderful Isle of Skye, there's plenty to keep you busy. Boat trips, sailing, fishing and canoeing are just some of the activities freely available. There are some excellent walking routes, or tour the island by bus or jeep.

Where to stay: there are plenty of hotels, camp sites and cottages on the Isle of Skye.

More information: www.isleofskye.com/

Carbis Bay, Cornwall

A beautiful sandy beach with Blue Flag status, Carbis Bay is in a sheltered position near the pretty seaside town of St Ives, making it a perfect summer getaway destination. Twitchers will find something of interest year round, thanks to Porth Kidney Sands, an RSPB bird sanctuary that's part of the Hayle Estuary Nature Reserve. Keep an eye out for curlews, little egrets and oystercatchers throughout the year, with flocks of wigeons and teals visiting in the winter.

Places to stay nearby: nearby Carbis Bay Hotel offers excellent sea views.

More information: www.visitcornwall.com

Even if you’ve lived your whole life in the UK, there’s always somewhere new to discover. Find out more here

Beaumaris, Anglesey

Nestled on the Menai Strait, which separates Anglesey from the rest of Wales, Beaumaris is a small seaside town steeped in history, having originally been a Viking settlement and now home to the striking Beaumaris Castle, one of Edward I's 'iron ring' castles. The nearby village of Llanfaes has plenty of self-catering cottages to choose from so you can fall asleep at night listening to the waves lap against the shore and admire the beautiful views of Snowdonia and Puffin Island.

Places to stay nearby: Beaumaris has plenty of hotels, including the stunning Chateau Rhianfa, while nearby Llanfaes is home to some charming holiday cottages.

More information: www.visitanglesey.co.uk 

Sandbanks, Dorset

Sandbanks is a beautiful, gently sloping sandy peninsula, situated on the coast of Dorset, crossing the mouth of Poole harbour. It offers superb views of Studland and Old Harry Rocks, and even the Isle of Wight on a clear day. Take a stroll along the promenade for cafes and shops, or visit the dog-friendly western beach with your pooch.

Places to stay nearby: there are plenty of hotels and rental cottages in Poole, and Sandbanks Hotel is right on the peninsula with sea views.

More information: www.visit-dorset.com

Even if you’ve lived your whole life in the UK, there’s always somewhere new to discover. Find out more here

Leven, Fife

On the Firth of Forth sits Leven, a small seaside town known for its sweeping sandy beaches and multiple golf courses. Don't let its small size fool you, there's plenty to do in Leven, including a cinema, heritage railway and modern leisure centre. If you'd rather stay somewhere quieter visit Lower Lago just up the coast - this ancient fishing village dates back to the 5th Century.

Where to stay nearby: Leven is home to hotels, caravan parks and cottages.

More information: www.visitscotland.com

Even if you’ve lived your whole life in the UK, there’s always somewhere new to discover. Find out more here