Camping by the coast is great fun. There's nothing better than falling to sleep with the sound of the sea crashing on the beach in the background.

But apart from sitting around on the sand, what can you do on your weekend by the sea?

Here's our 10 favourite ideas for seaside activities.

1. ENJOY THE BRIGHT LIGHTS
Part of the charm of seaside resorts is the traditional attractions like the piers, amusement arcades and funfairs. Kids still love the thrill of stuffing 2p coins into brightly lit up machines.

2. WATCH THE SUN SET

If you’re lucky enough to find a pitch with a sea view, chances are you’ll spend many an evening sitting outside your tent, gazing in awe as the sun sinks slowly into the sea.

3. SCOFF ‘JUNK’ FOOD

No trip to the coast is complete without generous helpings of fish and chips, ice cream and a traditional stick of rock. But watch out for the seagulls.

4. EAT FRESHLY CAUGHT SEAFOOD

If you insist on eating more healthily, the seaside is the place to do it. Tuck into potted shrimps in Morecambe, dressed crab in Norfolk or smokies in Arbroath.

5. TAKE THE PLUNGE

What could be better on a sunny summer’s morning than an early morning dip in the briny before rushing back up to your tent for bacon and eggs and a mug of tea?

6. HUNT FOR TREASURE

Imagine taking a stroll along the beach and discovering a rock containing the fossilised remains of a creature that lived millions of years ago. And it’s not just prehistoric treasures you’ll find on the beach. Arm yourself with a metal detector and go searching for shiny stuff.

7. BROWSE THE SHOPS

We love the tacky souvenir and gift shops that line the promenades in seaside towns where you can stock up on everything from buckets and spades to giant inflatables.

8. HAVE A PICNIC

Whether you prepare it yourself or buy everything from the local deli, seaside picnics have come a long way since the soggy sarnies and warm fizzy pop of the 80s. You could even take a mini barbecue and cook some chicken wings on the beach.

9. WATCH THE WILDLIFE

The cliffs, rocky shores, sandy dunes and muddy estuaries of Britain’s coastline are habitats for all sorts of marine life. Along parts of the coast, seals, dolphins and even whales and sharks can sometimes be seen.

10. EXPLORE ROCK POOLS

Grab a net and explore the many pools that appear when the tide goes out. You can spend hours searching for all sorts of marine life left behind by the sea.

Looking for a campiste by the coast? Have a look at our selection of super seaside sites