The Naze Beach, commonly known as Walton-on-the-Naze, is situated in the north east of Essex, slightly north of Walton-on-the-Naze. The beach is renowned for the stunning Naze cliffs and its status as a national nature reserve. These features make the beach an ideal location for nature walks and bird watching. Furthermore, the beach offers impressive views of Hamford Water and provides an opportunity to observe yachts coming and going from Titchmarsh Marina, as well as large vessels sailing to and from the Port of Harwich.
The beach can be accessed by various means. There are mainline railway connections from London and Ipswich, along with bus services from Frinton on Sea and Clacton on Sea. For those who prefer to drive, the beach is accessible from London and Colchester via the A12, A120, A133, and B1034.
The Naze Beach boasts a mix of sandy and rocky terrains, along with the renowned cliffs. It holds the designation of a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), although this does mean that access may be restricted in certain areas. The beach is divided into two distinct sections, accessible via steps down the cliff. The right side features sandy beaches at low tide, while the left side offers a combination of sand and rocks beneath the cliffs. However, both beaches are submerged at high tide, making it advisable for visitors to check tide times before their visit.
The beach is equipped with a variety of facilities, including a cafe, restaurant, pub, and toilets. There is also a bus stop for those using public transport, and a pay car park for visitors who drive.
In addition to being a popular location for walks, the Naze Beach is also a haven for fossil hunters. Visitors can find shark teeth, shells, and fossil wood in the shingle, with the fossil wood being particularly abundant. At low tide, the beach reveals rock pools and the remnants of collapsed pill boxes that have tumbled down the cliff face.
Despite its natural beauty and array of activities, the Naze Beach is typically not too crowded, making it a peaceful spot for a visit. However, visitors are cautioned not to stand near the cliff edge due to the risk of the cliff undercutting. The mud on the beach can also be deep and sticky, and there are mud flats and submerged rocks that visitors should be cautious of.
