Great Yarmouth is a classic English seaside town, famous for its long stretches of golden sand. If you're looking for a traditional British beach holiday experience, this Norfolk destination delivers with its lively atmosphere and quintessential coastal charm. The main beaches here are predominantly sandy, perfect for walks and family fun.
The heart of the resort is Great Yarmouth Beach, bustling with activity and close to all the main attractions. Just south, Gorleston-on-Sea Beach offers a slightly more relaxed vibe with its wide sands, often favoured by locals. For those seeking natural beauty, the dunes and windswept scenery of Winterton Beach provide a peaceful escape, and it's near areas known for seal sightings.
While these offer plenty, the expansive sands and nature reserve at Holkham Beach are truly iconic and worth the day trip further along the coast. Closer options like Caister-on-Sea also provide different seaside experiences. You can find more details on these and other coastal spots in our full guide to the area's beaches.
Swimming is possible in the North Sea, especially in summer when lifeguards often patrol the main areas, though the water is typically chilly. Keep in mind that dog access on the central parts of Great Yarmouth Beach and Gorleston-on-Sea Beach is restricted during the summer months, but many other stretches and nearby beaches welcome dogs year-round. Most main beaches feature promenades making access straightforward along the seafront.
