20 sizzling seaside campsites

CROWS NEST CARAVAN PARK
Gristhorpe, Filey, North Yorkshire YO14 9PS | 01723 582206 | www.crowsnestcaravanpark.com
This coastal campsite is located between Scarborough and Filey and is in a great position to visit the two seaside towns with their lovely sandy beaches. Filey is just three and a half miles away and is a traditional Victorian seaside town with a five-mile stretch of sandy beach, with rock pools and a variety of birds and wildlife. Surfing, fishing, yachting, golf, walking and bird watching are some of the activities that can be enjoyed. Other facilities include a toilet and shower block with family bathrooms and a disabled shower room, an indoor pool, supermarket, play area, fish and chip shop and a family bar with pool tables and entertainment. There’s a bus stop at the end of the site’s drive and dogs are welcome.

WOODA FARM HOLIDAY PARK
Poughill, Bude, Cornwall EX23 9HJ | 01288 352069 | www.wooda.co.uk
Wooda Farm is set just one and a half miles from the seaside resort of Bude, in rolling countryside and with views across to the coastline. Bude is renowned for its surf and sandy beaches, with an array of outdoor activities on offer. Summerleaze beach is famous for its outdoor sea pool and is close to the town centre where there are shops, cafés and restaurants. Crooklets beach is the place to be if you want to take to the surf. Facilities include toilet and shower blocks, privacy cubicles, disabled facilities, a shop, games room, playground, takeaway and cocktail bar. There are farm animals and a woodland walk and nature trail for families to enjoy. Pet owners will be pleased to note that most of the local beaches around Bude are dog friendly, including Summerleaze beach, and Northcott Mouth (two miles north of Bude).

CARLYON BAY CAMPING PARK
Cypress Avenue, Carlyon Bay, St Austell, Cornwall PL25 3RE | 01726 812735 | www.carlyonbay.net
There are numerous campsites in Cornwall next to glorious beaches but we like Carlyon Bay due to its plentiful facilities, yet it also remains peaceful and secluded.  There’s 30 acres of meadow and mature woodlands with floral borders of blue hydrangeas and wild rhododendron. Mixed in with this is are first class facilities including heated outdoor pools, a shop, play areas, table tennis, luxury toilet and shower amenities and crazy golf. For evening meals and drinks the Britannia Inn is a 10-minute walk away. Half a mile from site there’s also the Carlyon Bay Hotel, Spa and Golf Course where you can enjoy fine dining. Carlyon Bay is situated between the harbour at Polkerris and the historic port of Charlestown. It is less than a mile to sandy Crinnis Beach (even shorter if you cut across the path through the golf course) or there is a big car park at the beach. The area is currently undergoing regeneration with plans for apartments and other facilities. Currently Cornwall’s much-loved restaurant brand ‘Sam’s’ has a branch there.

SUNNYSIDE CROFT TOURING SITE
Arisaig, Inverness-shire PH39 4NT | 01687 450643 | www.sunnysidetouringsite.co.uk
A multi award-winning site that is located on a fantastic coastline with white sandy beaches and stunning Highland scenery. Set on the west coast of the Scottish Highlands, Sunnyside Croft is a 40-pitch, family run site between the villages of Arisaig and Mallaig. The site is located by one of several stunning beaches so you are spoilt for choice for a day on the sand.  The site has plenty of quality facilities to make your stay enjoyable. These include a reception that sells basic provisions and local produce, a laundry room, motorhome service point, outdoor drying area, dog shower and wetsuit wash. There are underfloor heated ladies and gents washrooms with spacious showers and disabled facilities. Added touches include an outdoor covered seating area with a large scale Ordnance Survey map so you can plan your days out. The local area is perfect for walking, or taking to the water on a kayak. There’s a nine-hole golf course less than a mile away too. Half an hour’s drive away is the dramatic Glenfinnan monument and viaduct, as featured in Harry Potter.

BUDLE BAY CAMPSITE
Waren Mill, Bamburgh, Northumberland NE70 7EE | 01668 215598 | www.budlebaycampsite.co.uk
It could be argued that few coastal places in the UK are as dramatic and stunning as that of the Northumberland coast. Budle Bay Campsite is situated just two miles north of the village of Bamburgh with its coastal castle overlooking 16 miles of sand, dunes and beaches. Great for wildlife enthusiasts, the site is 200 metres from the mud flats of Budle Bay that is renowned for its birdlife. 13 miles away is Holy Island, cut off from the mainland twice daily by the tide, this is a must-visit destination with vast sand dunes and beach and a 16-century castle. The campsite has a large grass area for motorhomes, caravans and tents. The Waren Burn river runs down one side of the site. Touring pitches have 16 amp electric hook-up and access to water. Units larger then 27 feet cannot be accepted but there is the option to select a grass reinforced mesh pitch for your unit. Facilities on site include toilets and showers, washing up sinks and waste disposal point. There’s also a small playground for children.

THE WILLOWS ABERSOCH
Yr Helyg, The Willows, Myntho, Near Abersoch, Pwlheli, Gwynedd LL53 7RW | 01758 740676 | www.the-willows-abersoch.co.uk
The Willows is a small, quiet, award-winning campsite situated on the Lleyn Peninsula, just above Abersoch – the coastal views from the camping areas and around the site are breathtaking. If you’re looking for plenty of space with first-class facilities then this could be the place for you. The coastline around Abersoch is blessed with sandy coves and beaches (there’s 19 within an eight-mile radius!), and clear turquoise waters where you will often see seals and dolphins. Dogs are also welcome on most of the beaches and the site has a large exercise area for them too. The whole area is a haven for walkers and watersports enthusiasts with many traffic-free walks and the nearest beach is just 1½ miles away. Free Wi-Fi is also on offer here. Facilities include toilets and showers, along with a laundry. The nearest pub is about a mile away from the site and there’s a local shop about ¼ of a mile away.

WHITECLIFF BAY HOLIDAY PARK
Hillway Road, Bembridge, Isle of Wight PO35 5PL | 01442 508850 | www.awayresorts.co.uk/whitecliff-bay
For a holiday where you’re never far from the coast, you can’t get better than the Isle of Wight. At only 25 miles by 13 miles its 60 miles of coastline is easily accessible wherever you’re based. Whitecliff Bay Holiday Park is situated next to its own beautiful beach which is secluded and sandy. With the bay being long and shallow it is a great beach for young children to play safely. There are water activities on offer in the bay and a beach café for those all-important snacks and drinks. The campsite offers a range of pitches from basic value pitches to ones serviced with electric. Pitch prices include up to six people and entertainment passes for your stay. Facilities on site include a covered play area, a bar, café, restaurant and takeaway, and indoor soft play area and games room. Entertainment is available in the evenings with events such as bingo, quizzes, live music and performers. There’s also an outdoor pool with sun terrace and  an indoor pool with bubble pool and slide. The site is surrounded by rolling countryside and woodland and nearby attractions include the Isle of Wight zoo, and Needles Park with chairlift down to the coloured sands of Alum Bay.

WOODHILL PARK
Cromer Road, East Runton, Norfolk NR27 9PX | 01263 512242 | www.woodhill-park.com
Located in a clifftop position between the coastal resorts of Sheringham and Cromer, Woodhill Park has great views of the coastline and surrounding countryside. There are plenty of walks that can be taken from Woodhill including along the coastal path to East Runton and Cromer. The traditional town of Sheringham offers a mix of Victorian and Edwardian architecture and some quaint little shops and quiet beaches. Cromer is a historic seaside town with a wide choice of places to eat and a pier that is over 100 years old.  Back at Woodhill there are 250-pitches on grass, many with electric hook-up. Three modern, clean amenity buildings offer disabled facilities, a family bathroom and three family shower rooms. Dishwashing and a laundry room are also available. The facilities building near reception is heated in colder weather and has been refurbished to hotel-type standard. The on-site shop stocks groceries and basic caravan and camping equipment. There’s a new children’s playground and a games field with petanque court, tennis nets and crazy golf.

DAMAGE BARTON CARAVAN & CAMPING SITE
Mortehoe, Woolacombe, Devon EX34 7EJ | 01271 870502 | www.damagebarton.co.uk
If you’re looking for stunning sea views rather than needing to be pitched up right by the beach, then Damage Barton, situated on the coast between Woolacombe and Ilfracombe is just the place. Covering 16 acres of working beef and sheep farm, you can enjoy panoramic sea views, peace and quiet and great coastal walking and beaches.  There are two parts to the site – a Caravan & Motorhome Club Affiliated Site for members only and a caravan and camping area open to all. The non-members area is in the lower part of the field with grass and hardstanding pitches with electric and two shower blocks. For the use of all guests is a wetsuit washroom, picnic area, dog exercise areas and shop. There’s access to the South West Coast Path, the Tarka Trail cycle path of Ilfracombe is one mile from the site entrance and the sandy beach at Woolacombe is just two miles away.

MOTHER IVEY’S BAY HOLIDAY PARK
Trevose Head, Nr Padstow, Cornwall PL28 8SL | 01841 520990 | www.motheriveysbay.com
Mother Ivey’s Bay is an award-winning, dog-friendly holiday park, boasting an enviable coastal position on the north Cornwall coast with its own private sandy beach and direct access to the stunning Coastal Path. Positioned at the narrowest point of the picturesque Trevose Headland, the park offers panoramic views to both the north and west. The beach offers golden, flat sand leading to the water’s edge. The pearlescent and sheltered cove waters are enjoyed by local seals alongside occasional bodyboarders. Mother Ivey’s Bay is supplemented by six other beaches within walking distance offering dog-friendly, surfer-friendly and stroll-friendly destinations for every day of your holiday. The site offers a choice of three touring fields (including one dog-free area). There are three modern toilet blocks, one with family units, two with an accessible shower/WC unit, a play area and licensed shop. For nature lovers, the five acre nature reserve offers an opportunity to experience the local flora and fauna from within the park.

ATLANTIC COAST HOLIDAY PARK
53 Upton Towans, Hayle, Cornwall TR27 5BL | 01736 752071 | www.atlanticcoastpark.co.uk
The pitches at Atlantic Coast are set in a sheltered area which is backed by sand dunes which have been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. You can access these dunes from the touring area, and a scenic walk over them leads to a stunning stretch of beach and the sea. Gwithian beach is great for families and couples and being dog friendly is handy for pet owners too. The park has a David Bellamy Award for encouraging wildlife and the surrounding dunes are a great place for a spot of wildlife watching and a great playground for children. For days out, St Ives, Land’s End and the Lizard are within driving distance. The surrounding area is perfect for walkers with coastal paths and scenic routes. The campsite itself is family and dog-friendly but also peaceful and a great base for a relaxing holiday due to its location.

GOLDEN CAP HOLIDAY PARK
Seatown, Chideock, Bridport, Dorset DT6 6JX | 01308 422139  | www.wdlh.co.uk
Golden Cap is situated in the tiny coastal village of Seatown, 150 metres from a quiet, shingle beach. It’s about two miles from the busier market town of Bridport. Named after the famous Golden Cap, the highest point on the South Coast, the site is surrounded by 2,000 acres of National Trust Estate. The park has its own fishing lake and a shop selling a variety of produce. Guests can also use the extended facilities at sister park, Highlands End (two miles away), which include indoor pool, tennis court, bar and restaurant.

COFTON COUNTRY HOLIDAYS
Starcross, Nr Dawlish, South Devon EX6 8RP | 0800 085 8649 | www.coftonholidays.co.uk
Set within 80 acres of Devon countryside, 30-minutes’ walk from Dawlish Warren beach, Cofton has a range of attractions.  The brand new indoor leisure complex incorporates a swimming pool with hydrotherapy bubble loungers and massage jets as well as a splash area for kids, a sauna, steam room and gym. There are also outdoor pools, open during the summer months, with sunbathing terraces and a poolside lawn. Other fun facilities include a soft play area, amusements, playground and outdoor adventure area along with plenty of woodland trails. For the fisherman there’s five well-stocked fishing lakes too. In peak season the daily events programme offers activities such as archery, reptile encounters, children’s discos, games and activities, followed by an evening show, singer or comedy act.  For food options choose from Amelia’s pantry – a café/restaurant, the Warren Retreat which serves evening meals and carveries, or the Swan Pub with its traditional atmosphere and exclusively for Cofton guests only. If you’d prefer to cook yourself, the shop on site is open daily offering a range of goods including freshly baked bread.

TREVORNICK HOLIDAY PARK
Holywell Bay, Cornwall TR8 5PW | 01637 832916 | www.trevornick.co.uk
Trevornick is the perfect destination for a fun-filled family holiday as the park offers a range of things to do. For starters the sandy beach is within walking distance of the park, so children can build sandcastles and play in the sea. On site there are a multitude of facilities and activities (some of which are seasonal) which include a heated swimming pool, health spa, kids club, golf course, fishing lakes and outdoor play area. The swimming pool is fully enclosed and manned by lifeguards so you can be assured that children can enjoy the water safely. There’s also a splash pool for the younger children to enjoy too. The Jacuzzi, spa, sauna and solarium provide somewhere for adults to relax too. You’ve also got all the attractions of Holywell Bay Fun Park, such as go-karts, battle boats and adventure golf. If you should decide to venture off site then Newquay, Padstow and The Eden Project are all worth a visit.

SHORE CARAVAN SITE
Achmelvich, Lochinver, Sutherland IV27 4JB | 01571 844393 | www.shorecaravansite.yolasite.com
Family-run Shore Caravan Site is located right next to the glorious sandy beach of Achmelvich Bay, about four miles from the coastal village of Lochinver. The location is glorious with both stunning sea and mountain views. The beach can be walked to in no time and has lovely clean water for swimming and water sports. In the summer, there are games set up on the beach, including The Sandcastle Competition and The Achmelvich Olympics, which are open to all ages. The site has a toilet and shower block and a small laundry. There is a shop selling basics and Wi-Fi is available. There is also a chip shop which opens in the main holiday period from end of May to end of August.

SHELL ISLAND
Llanbedr, Gwynedd, North Wales LL45 2PJ | 01341 241453 | www.shellisland.co.uk
Big is beautiful, they say, so campsites shouldn’t come more gorgeous than this, reputedly Europe’s largest. The road to this campsite in the north of Cardigan Bay gets flooded at high tide so you need to check the tide times before you cross. Once at the site you are looking at 300 acres of land allocated for camping. With over 35 water points, 22 fire extinguisher points and some four miles of roads, this really is a large site, meaning there is lots of space to spread out. You are free to pitch wherever you choose, with some fields having an open aspect, others having alcoves and being divided by trees and shrubs. Some pitches are even right on top of the dunes and close to the beach. Do bear in mind though as this is a large site that some pitches are a 25-minute walk (or short drive) from the main facilities.  Shell Island gets its name from the vast amount of shells washed ashore in the winter months by storms, which can be gathered by the bagful in spring. Some 200 different types of shell are to be found on the island’s three beaches, from oyster and scallop to cockle and whelk. The best time to see the shells is January to June.

GLAN Y MOR LEISURE PARK
Clarach Bay, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion SY23 3DT | 01970 828900 | www.sunbourne.co.uk
The main camping field at this medium-sized site is set high above the sea and bay below with stunning views of Cardigan Bay. A real family site with bar/club, takeaway and restaurant, a shop, indoor swimming pool, indoor games areas/arcades and Wi-Fi, clean toilets/showers and a laundry. There are electric hook-ups available for those who need them. This is the sort of site that kids love as it provides them with a bit of just about everything a seaside holiday should. The beach is lovely and sandy and very relaxing to spend time on but note that the camping field can get windy at times as it is high above the sea itself.

CAERFAI BAY CARAVAN & TENT
Ffordd Caerfai, St David’s, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire SA62 6QT | 01437 720274 | www.caerfaibay.co.uk
The appeal of Caerfai Bay is its incredible cliff-top view of St Bride’s Bay and reaching as far as Ramsey Island. Perimeter hedges separate it from coastal vegetation and organic farmland before sloping down to the Pembrokeshire Coast Path – which has now become part of the 870-mile Wales Coast Path. Truly this is a walker’s paradise. Although the park slopes down towards the coast path, efforts have been made to level most of the pitches. There’s a small sandy beach accessed via a path down the cliffs which is steep but well worth the effort. At low tide it has a broad extent of sand with rock pools and caves at either side. A small farm shop, open high season only, is adjacent to the site, while St David’s is a 10-minute walk away and offers teashops, restaurants and pubs. As Britain’s smallest city there’s a Norman cathedral here and you can book boat trips around the islands to see the grey seals, dolphins, sea birds and the occasional whale!

APPULDURCOMBE GARDENS HOLIDAY PARK
Wroxall, Ventnor, Isle of Wight PO38 3EP | 01983 852597 | www.appuldurcombegardens.co.uk
The Isle of Wight is only 21 miles wide by 13 miles long but it certainly packs a lot of attractions into its small surface area including half of its area being designated an AONB.  Appuldurcombe Gardens is set in secluded grounds surrounded by countryside, with many walking and cycling routes on the doorstep. It’s just a short drive to the resorts and beaches of Shanklin, Sandown and Ventnor where activities include sailing, windsurfing and hang-gliding. The main holiday facilities are open from April until mid-October and include a shop selling everyday basics such as fresh bread, pastries and milk, and a café with eat in or takeaway service. There’s also an outdoor heated pool and toddler pool, along with a play area, both of which are overlooked by the bar. In peak season there’s a family entertainment room and scuba diving lessons are offered in the pool. There’s also a games room, football pitch and crazy golf. The camping field is set within grassland, with a small stream connecting to a meadow where there’s seating and a wildlife pond.

MIDDLEWOOD FARM
Middlewood Lane, Fylingthorpe, Robin Hood’s Bay, Whitby, North Yorkshire YO22 4UF | 01947 880414 | www.middlewoodfarm.com
Set on the edge of the village of Fylingthorpe in a farm setting, this is a friendly, down-to-earth family campsite blessed with panoramic country, sea and moorland views. The site is set on a series of flat, sheltered fields on either side of a lane, less than 10 minutes’ walk from the beaches and coves of Robin Hoods Bay on the North Yorkshire Coast. The site has electric hook ups and two modern shower/toilet blocks with free hot water. There’s also a baby change room, two dishwashing areas and a children’s adventure play park. There’s a take-away food van on site and the village has several shops and a pub. Nearby are Robin Hoods Bay and Whitby, as well as the North Yorkshire moors. This section of the Yorkshire coastline is a haven for walkers, with the Cleveland Way footpath following the cliff tops and the popular Coast to Coast footpath finishing in Robin Hoods Bay.