The beach has lifeguards throughout the summer (Image: Phil Mingo/PPAUK)
With the school summer holidays just around the corner, parents across the country are on the hunt for the perfect sunny destination – and we may have found just the answer.
To assist families in planning the ultimate summer day out, with safety, affordability and location all high on the agenda, the AA has carried out all the legwork so you needn’t bother. The motoring organisation has put together a carefully compiled list of the UK’s safest and finest beaches to visit in 2026.
Having assessed more than 228 coastal spots based on key criteria including average Google review scores, car parking charges, lifeguard provision, RNLI lifeboat stations, average water temperature and monthly sunshine hours in July, they have produced a reliable guide to beaches you can visit with complete confidence.
Taking the top honour in first place was Devon‘s Exmouth Beach, which achieved the highest score of 76.42 out of 100. A firm favourite along the South-West coastline, and for very good reason, it boasts two miles of golden sands and sweeping vistas, with no shortage of activities to keep visitors entertained.
What truly sets Exmouth Beach apart, however, is the presence of an RNLI lifeboat station directly on the beach, alongside lifeguard-patrolled waters throughout the summer months, making it the standout choice for families. It also holds an impressive Google review rating of 4.7 out of five stars and offers wallet-friendly parking at just £5 for the entire day.
The beach has a Blue flag status (Image: Chris Wollacott)
Regarding swimmer safety, the water quality is understood to be ‘perfect’, rendering it an ideal spot for a paddle, a refreshing swim or a full day of aquatic activities. The beach has become a favourite amongst sports enthusiasts and boasts numerous nearby venues where visitors can hire equipment for paddleboarding, kitesurfing and kayaking set against the breathtaking coastal scenery.
In terms of amenities, visitors are well catered for, with virtually everything required for a relaxing day out readily available. There are pay-and-display car parks situated along the seafront, public conveniences positioned at regular points and several cafes, restaurants and ice cream stands next to the beach.
Following a recent family trip to Exmouth Beach, one Tripadvisor reviewer said: “Family and friends day out. What a lovely place, fantastic beach, great gentle walking on the esplanade. Well kept areas and spotlessly clean. Would definitely recommend.”
It has all the facilities you could need (Image: Thomas Faull via Getty Images)
Another satisfied guest added: “Lovely beach and views! ! you can come with your furry friend and enjoy the views! ! sandy beach and lots of places around to grab a drink or take away, you can also come with your BBQ.”
Taking second place behind Exmouth Beach was Frinton-on-Sea in Essex, achieving a score of 74.19 out of 100. The destination is well-known, attracting over 40,000 monthly Google searches and maintaining an average rating of 4.6, though its popularity appears thoroughly justified.
The study revealed it performs strongly owing to its convenient complimentary parking and pleasant temperatures. Holidaymakers can look forward to glorious sunshine, with the destination basking in approximately 211 hours of sunlight throughout July, complemented by a pleasant average sea temperature of 18.5 degrees Celsius.
Nestled within a delightful Victorian coastal town, it provides the perfect tranquil retreat, with the reassurance that your children can enjoy themselves in a safe environment.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
