Minehead offers a classic British seaside experience, nestled on the Somerset coast where Exmoor National Park meets the sea. It's a popular base, particularly for families seeking traditional fun, thanks to its large main beach right by the town. While you can swim here, be aware that Minehead sits on the Bristol Channel, known for having one of the world's largest tidal ranges. This means the sea retreats a long way, revealing vast stretches of sand and mudflats, and the water naturally carries silt, giving it a different appearance compared to clearer waters found elsewhere.
The heart of the action is Minehead Seafront, a long sandy and pebble beach perfect for paddling, sandcastles, and enjoying the seaside amusements when the tide is in. But Minehead is also a fantastic starting point for exploring the varied coastline nearby. Venture out to discover unique geological wonders and hunt for fossils at the rocky shore of Kilve Beach, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest.
For breathtaking scenery, the picturesque pebble shores of Bossington Beach, managed by the National Trust, offer stunning views along the Exmoor coast, close to a charming village. Nearby, Porlock Beach provides a different atmosphere with its historic harbour village and pebble ridge, ideal for coastal walks. Many visitors also enjoy the character of nearby Dunster Beach, known for its colourful beach huts.
Whether you prefer the convenience of the main town beach or the unique character of the surrounding shores, Minehead provides access to a diverse range of coastal environments. From sandy stretches to dramatic pebble ridges and fossil-rich cliffs, there's much to explore. For details on these and other coastal spots in the area, explore our full list of beaches.
