When it comes to sun filled, sandy beaches you don’t have to jet off to the Bahamas, there are plenty of incredible locations just across the water where you and your family can dip your toe in the blue ocean and spend the day basking in the sunshine. Here are five family beaches you definitely need to plan a visit to:
1. Praia da Marinha, Portugal
If you’re looking for an idyllic setting to spend the day eating ice cream and topping up your tan, while the kids paddle in the ocean and try out their snorkel masks to get a good look at the fish, then Praia da Marinha should tick all the boxes. Number one in Trip Advisor’s top 10 beaches in Portugal list, this beach is so good you’ll be talking to Portugal Property about buying a home nearby so you can visit this beach every day!
2. Santa Giulia beach, France
This beach wouldn’t look out of place in the Caribbean, with warm crystal clear waters and soft white sand it’s the ideal location for families who are looking to relax. The beach benefits from free parking close by, ample room for those who want to visit and a convenience store located nearby in case you forgot to pack extra water or lunch. Bear in mind though that sun loungers are provided but are quite expensive at €12 a day.
3. Cala Mariolu, Italy
Only accessible by boat this beach is worth the sea sickness most of the family will probably experience as you are greeted by crystal clear blue waters, caves to explore and clean white sand. On quieter days there are so many fish near the sand that you can happily sit and feed them by hand. Perfect for families, there is also a snack bar nearby selling gelato, paninis and pizza so you shouldn’t get hungry – be sure to pack plenty of sun cream because the kids won’t want to go home!
4. Prasonisi beach, Rhodes
A beach perfect for the more active family, Prasonisi beach is perfect for body boarding, wind surfing and various other watersports. There isn’t much in the way of shelter so be sure to pick up a beach umbrella and then sit back and enjoy the beauty of the beach, the miles of sand and plenty of space for a family to stretch out in.
5. Scarborough beach, UK
Don’t forget that the UK has plenty of gorgeous coastlines to enjoy as a family if you don’t fancy heading abroad. Scarborough is the perfect destination to head to when it comes to stunning beaches and its North Bay beach is potentially the most popular with visitors as you get to experience a long stretch of clean sand, lifeguard services, a gorgeous view of Scarborough castle in the distance and the Sealife Centre nearby. There is pay and display parking nearby at the Sealife Centre.
It’s a great beach for watersports on a windy day and there are also beach huts available to rent along the promenade. You will find a few shops and a bar nearby but it might be best to pack a picnic to take with you.
Look for beaches that fit your family’s needs, have plenty of shade and are located in settings you will remember fondly for years to come.