Suffolk’s Hidden Beaches: Discover Secluded Coastal Spots

While we make no excuses for promoting the (rightly) popular beaches of Southwold and Aldeburgh on the blog, it’s important to keep in mind that Suffolk is also home to some lesser-known, hidden beaches that offer peace and quiet away from the crowds. Keen to ensure we cater to those readers who prefer quieter coastal spots, we decided to put together a list showcasing the hidden beaches of Suffolk which can be visited when staying at our Barns and Barges for rent.

To begin, we’d recommend Covehithe Beach, which is nestled between Southwold and Kessingland. Unquestionably one of Suffolk’s most secluded and picturesque beaches, Covehithe is accessed by way of a quiet lane and a short walk through fields. A pleasant stroll in itself, this leads to an unspoiled stretch of coastline which feels every bit like a secret escape. The beach is known for its dramatic cliffs and sandy shores, with a backdrop of weathered trees and the ruins of St. Andrew’s Church adding to its secretive beauty.

Perfect for those looking for a peaceful spot to enjoy a walk or relax with the sound of the waves, Covehithe is wild and rugged, and it’s constantly changing due to coastal erosion, which adds to its unique charm. Since there are no facilities, you’ll want to bring your own supplies, but that’s part of what makes visiting this beach so special – it’s a place to truly connect with nature and enjoy some solitude.

Shingle Street is another remote coastal secret located near the mouth of the River Ore. Its beach, composed mostly of pebbles, offers sweeping views of the North Sea and a true sense of isolation that is perfect for those who prefer their beach days on the quiet side. While it’s not a sandy beach, the unique landscape of Shingle Street, with its shingle banks and salt marshes, attracts a variety of wildlife, making it a particularly great spot for nature lovers.

The tranquillity of Shingle Street has helped earn it a reputation for being a great place for walking, beachcombing, and even sea kayaking. The shingle banks and the sound of the sea create a meditative atmosphere that complements such surroundings. While there are no amenities here, the charm of Shingle Street lies in its wild, untouched nature. Want our Woodfarm Barns and Barges words of advice? Be sure to bring a picnic to best enjoy the expansive views.

Once a bustling medieval port town, Dunwich is now a small village with a rich history and a quiet, often overlooked beach. Dunwich Beach offers a long stretch of sand and shingle backed by heathlands and the haunting remains of the town that was lost to the sea over centuries due to coastal erosion.

What makes Dunwich Beach special is its connection to Dunwich Heath, which is superbly managed by the National Trust. The heathlands are home to a range of wildlife, including rare birds, and the cliffs provide stunning views of the coastline. After a peaceful walk on the beach, you can explore the nearby heath and woodlands, making it another great spot for nature lovers. Dunwich also has a small café and a pub, offering refreshments after your seaside stroll. What more could you possibly want from a secluded beach in Suffolk?

While Sizewell is better known for its nuclear power station, its beach is another one which is often overlooked in favour of more popular nearby spots like Thorpeness and Aldeburgh. However, Sizewell Beach is a quiet, underrated gem. It’s a great spot for a peaceful walk along the shingle shore, and its wide expanse of beach makes it perfect for a quiet day by the sea.

One of the charms of Sizewell Beach is its simplicity. The beach is uncrowded, even during the summer months, and offers clear views of the North Sea. It’s also a good spot for fishing and birdwatching, should either of these pastimes be your kind of thing. While the power station looms in the background, many visitors find it adds to the character of this quiet, off-the-beaten-path beach.

In short, Suffolk abounds with a range of quieter beaches that firmly compete with the more popular destinations. Whilst we wouldn’t want to give away all of our secrets in a single blog (we’ve got to keep some material for future releases!), we’re confident that these spots will get you on a good footing when staying at our Barns and Barges for rent in Suffolk.

Do have a read of our complete guide to our favourite 8 Suffolk beaches.