Where to find the lesser-known beaches along the Suffolk coast

Stretching along the eastern edge of England, the Suffolk coast is well-known for its stunning landscapes and charming seaside towns. Sure, Southwold and Aldeburgh have a habit of stealing the limelight – and with good reason –  there are plenty of lesser-known beaches that offer a quieter beauty and break from the crowds. To get you inspired, we’ve assembled a selection of our favourite lesser-known beaches to explore when staying at one of our Barns or Barges for rent in Suffolk.

Covehithe Beach

Nestled between Southwold and Lowestoft, Covehithe Beach is a secluded spot that offers the perfect amount of isolation and untouched natural beauty. Accessible via a footpath from the village of Covehithe, the beach is perhaps best known for its dramatic cliffs. The beach itself is a mix of sand and shingle, perfect for long, refreshing walks. As if this wasn’t enough, the ruins of St. Andrew’s Church add a hauntingly beautiful backdrop to this remote beach.

Dunwich Beach

At one time in history a thriving mediaeval port, Dunwich is now a quiet village with a rich history bobbing beneath its waves. Dunwich Beach is less popular than its neighbours, providing a peaceful retreat with its shingle shoreline and expansive views of the North Sea. The beach is backed by heathland as well as the Dunwich Forest, providing plenty of opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. The village’s fascinating history, with its lost churches and underwater ruins, adds an even greater curiosity to this hidden gem.

Shingle Street

Shingle Street, located at the mouth of the River Ore, is a relatively small and serene beach. Earning its name from the vast expanse of shingle, combined with the striking Martello towers and salt marshes, this destination is certainly deserving of being defined as a ‘tranquil environment’. Particularly good for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle, Shingle Street is a great spot for wildlife watching and has some wartime secrets that add to its lesser-known reputation.

Thorpeness Beach

Just north of Aldeburgh you’ll find Thorpeness, a quaint village with a beach that’s often overlooked. For those with an adventurous spirit, a visit here invites visitors to enjoy a shingle and sand beach, ideal for picnics and leisurely strolls. The village itself, with its fairytale architecture and the famous House in the Clouds, are also well worth exploring. 

Kessingland Beach

South of Lowestoft, Kessingland Beach is a long, wide stretch of sand and shingle that remains relatively quiet, even during peak season. The beach is perfect for long walks and the village’s rich maritime history make it well worth a visit when on holiday in Suffolk.

Altogether, the Suffolk coast is dotted with lesser-known beaches that offer a tranquil escape and a chance to connect with nature away from the crowds. From the haunting beauty of Covehithe to the historical intrigue of Dunwich, each hidden gem along this stretch of coastline has its own unique charm. So, when checking the availability of our Barns and Barges for rent, be sure to take a look at this list to get your itinerary started.