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Best Hidden Beaches in Norfolk to escape the crowds

Updated: Mar 9

Your Ultimate Guide to exploring off-the-beaten track locations beaches across Norfolk.


For those wanting a bit of peace and quiet in Norfolk, sometimes it can be difficult to find a secluded beach (especially during the summer months!). However, if you look hard enough you'll find plenty of secluded beaches waiting to be explored! Those long stretches of sand won't wait forever!


In this article, we share 10 hidden beaches in Norfolk which you need to add to your Norfolk bucket list this year to escape the crowds. We hope you enjoy!




1) Horsey Beach


For all you seal lovers, Horsey Beach should be at the very top of beaches to visit in the whole of the UK! There has been loads of sightings of seals swimming offshore near the beach; remember not to get close to these seals. Apart from that, this beach is perfect for those looking for a secluded beach in Norfolk.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Horsey Beach


1) How accessible is Horsey Beach?

Horsey Beach offers good accessibility, with various access points and car parking areas available nearby. The beach itself has relatively easy access, with some sections having designated pathways suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.


However, it's advisable to check specific access points for any restrictions or uneven terrain, particularly for visitors with mobility challenges.


2) What are the main attractions at Horsey Beach?

Horsey Beach is renowned for its pristine sandy shoreline, picturesque dunes, and stunning coastal views. One of the main attractions of this beach is its thriving seal colony, particularly during the winter months when seals come ashore to give birth to their pups.


Visitors can observe these magnificent creatures from a safe distance, making it a unique and unforgettable experience.


3) Is Horsey Beach dog friendly?

Yes, Horsey Beach is dog friendly throughout the year. It offers ample space for dogs to run and play along the expansive sandy beach. However, dog owners are kindly reminded to keep their pets under control and clean up after them to help maintain the cleanliness and safety of the beach for all visitors.


Places to stay near Horsey Beach



Image of Horsey Beach in Norfolk


2) Cart Gap Beach


A secluded dog-friendly beach which is pretty empty except other dog walkers. It's a lovely long sandy beach and is perfect for those that love a good swim! We recommend arriving when the tide is not high.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Cart Gap Beach


1) Where is Cart Gap Beach located?

Cart Gap Beach is situated on the Norfolk coast, near the village of Happisburgh. It offers a serene coastal setting with scenic views of the North Sea.


2) Is Cart Gap Beach dog-friendly?

Yes, Cart Gap Beach is dog-friendly year-round. Visitors can enjoy walking their dogs along the sandy shores, but it's essential to keep them under control and clean up after them to maintain the beach's cleanliness.


3) How accessible is Cart Gap Beach?

Cart Gap Beach offers reasonable accessibility, with nearby car parking available for visitors. The beach itself has access points suitable for most visitors, but it's advisable to check for any specific access information, particularly for individuals with mobility challenges.


Places to stay near Cart Gap Beach



Image of Cart Gap Beach in Norfolk

3) Bacton Beach


A wide open beautiful sandy beach which stays pretty pleasant most of the time. Part of the beach is restricted to dogs, however most of the beach allows them to come off the lead. It's usually quiet whenever you visit so you'll almost have the whole beach to yourself!


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Bacton Beach


1) Where is Bacton Beach located?

Bacton Beach is situated on the Norfolk coast, near the village of Bacton. It offers a picturesque coastal setting with sandy shores and stunning views of the North Sea.


2) Is Bacton Beach dog-friendly?

Yes, Bacton Beach is dog-friendly year-round. Visitors can enjoy walking their dogs along the shoreline, but it's important to keep them under control and clean up after them to preserve the beach's cleanliness.


3) What amenities are available at Bacton Beach?

Bacton Beach offers various amenities, including car parking facilities, public toilets, and nearby cafes or shops for refreshments. However, it's advisable to check for specific facilities and services before visiting, especially during off-peak seasons.


Places to stay near Bacton Beach



Image of Bacton Beach in Norfolk


4) Overstrand Beach


Visitors will enjoy dramatic cliff backdrops and an easy access to coastal paths when they visit Overstrand Beach. When the tide is in, it is fantastic for swimming, however there are no lifeguards present so please follow safety codes for swimming.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Overstrand Beach


1) Where is Overstrand Beach located?

Overstrand Beach is situated along the North Norfolk coast, near the village of Overstrand. It offers a beautiful stretch of sandy shoreline, ideal for seaside walks and family outings.


2) Is Overstrand Beach suitable for swimming?

Yes, Overstrand Beach is generally suitable for swimming during calm weather conditions. However, visitors should be aware of tides and currents and swim in the designated safe areas. It's also advisable to follow any local guidelines or warnings regarding water safety.


3) Are dogs allowed on Overstrand Beach?

Yes, Overstrand Beach is dog-friendly throughout the year. Dog owners can bring their pets to enjoy the beach, but it's essential to keep them under control and clean up after them to maintain the beach's cleanliness and safety for other visitors.


Places to stay near Overstrand Beach



Image of Overstrand Beach in Norfolk

5) East Runton Beach


A fantastic beach which is full of lovely fossils and stones. For rock lovers, try and go when it's low tide to see some amazing rock formations. However, please be careful of the cliffs as there are regular rockfalls and collapses. There are also nice rock pools to explore.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting East Runton Beach


1) Where is East Runton Beach located?

East Runton Beach is located on the North Norfolk coast, near the village of East Runton. It offers a picturesque stretch of coastline known for its sandy beach and stunning views of the North Sea.


2) Is East Runton Beach dog friendly?

Yes, East Runton Beach is dog friendly year-round. Visitors can bring their dogs to enjoy the beach, but it's important to keep them under control and clean up after them to maintain the beach's cleanliness and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.


3) Are there any facilities available at East Runton Beach?

Yes, East Runton Beach has facilities such as parking areas, toilets, and nearby cafes or restaurants. Visitors can find amenities to enhance their beach experience and enjoy a comfortable day by the seaside.


Places to stay near East Runton Beach



Image of East Runton Beach in Norfolk

6) Winterton Beach


An absolute gorgeous beach which is heaven for all you dog lovers. If you're lucky, you may even see some seals floating about! Remember not to get close to them though, simply admire from a distance.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Winterton Beach


1) Where is Winterton Beach located?

Winterton Beach is situated on the Norfolk coast, near the village of Winterton-on-Sea. It offers a scenic stretch of coastline characterized by sand dunes, wide sandy beaches, and stunning views of the North Sea.


2) Is Winterton Beach dog friendly?

Yes, Winterton Beach is known for being dog friendly year-round. Visitors can bring their furry companions to enjoy the beach, but it's essential to keep them under control and clean up after them to maintain the beach's cleanliness and ensure a pleasant experience for all beachgoers.


3) What facilities are available at Winterton Beach?

Winterton Beach provides amenities such as parking areas, toilets, and beachside cafes or restaurants. Visitors can find everything they need for a comfortable day at the beach, including facilities for picnics, beach games, and relaxation by the seaside.


Places to stay near Winterton Beach



Image of Winterton Beach in Norfolk


7) Weybourne Beach


An excellent quite beach, however there isn't much sand so we don't recommend visiting with children as they may get bored. Fishing fans will love this beach though as it's a great spot to wet a line!


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Weybourne Beach


1) Where is Weybourne Beach located?

Weybourne Beach is situated along the North Norfolk coast, near the village of Weybourne. It offers a mix of shingle and sand, with picturesque views of the surrounding cliffs and the North Sea.


2) Is Weybourne Beach suitable for swimming?

While Weybourne Beach is a lovely spot for coastal walks and enjoying the seaside ambiance, it's not typically recommended for swimming due to strong currents and the presence of underwater hazards. Visitors are advised to exercise caution if entering the water.


3) Is Weybourne Beach dog friendly?

Yes, Weybourne Beach is generally dog friendly throughout the year. Dog owners can bring their pets to enjoy the beach, but it's essential to keep them under control and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for all beachgoers.


Places to stay near Weybourne Beach



Image of Weybourne Beach in Norfolk

8) Salthouse Beach


Visitors can admire spectacular vistas of the marshes and North Norfolk coast line, making it a top beach experience! It's a beautiful long beach with small pockets of sand exposed at low tide.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Salthouse Beach


1) Where is Salthouse Beach located?

Salthouse Beach is situated along the North Norfolk coast, near the village of Salthouse. It offers a mix of pebbles and shingle, backed by sand dunes and salt marshes, providing scenic views of the coastline and the North Sea.


2) Is Salthouse Beach suitable for swimming?

While Salthouse Beach is a beautiful spot for coastal walks and birdwatching, it's not typically recommended for swimming due to strong currents and potential underwater hazards. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the beach safely and respect any warning signs posted by local authorities.


3) Is Salthouse Beach dog friendly?

Yes, Salthouse Beach is generally dog friendly year-round, making it a popular destination for dog owners looking to enjoy the seaside with their pets. However, it's essential to keep dogs under control and clean up after them to maintain the cleanliness and safety of the beach for all visitors.


Places to stay near Salthouse Beach



Image of Salthouse Beach in Norfolk


9) Burnham Overy Staithe Beach


If you enjoy quiet, peace and just the sound of birds with the wind blowing in the rigging, then this beach is for you. We definitely recommend walking along the coastal footpath to the beach.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Burnham Overy Staithe Beach


1) Where is Burnham Overy Staithe Beach located?

Burnham Overy Staithe Beach is situated on the North Norfolk coast, near the village of Burnham Overy Staithe. It offers a picturesque mix of sand, shingle, and salt marshes, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and wildlife.


2) Is Burnham Overy Staithe Beach suitable for swimming?

While Burnham Overy Staithe Beach is a beautiful spot for coastal walks and birdwatching, it's not typically recommended for swimming due to strong currents and potential underwater hazards. Visitors are advised to exercise caution and adhere to any safety warnings posted by local authorities.


3) Is Burnham Overy Staithe Beach dog friendly?

Yes, Burnham Overy Staithe Beach is generally dog friendly year-round, making it an ideal destination for dog owners seeking seaside adventures with their pets. However, responsible pet ownership is essential, and visitors should clean up after their dogs to maintain the cleanliness and safety of the beach for everyone.


Places to stay near Burnham Overy Staithe Beach



Image of Burnham Overy Staithe Beach in Norfolk

10) Heacham South Beach


A hidden gem of a beach which is fantastic in the summer and just as good in the winter. It's quiet and unspoilt, and hasn't changed much in the last 50 years.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Heacham South Beach


1) Where is Heacham South Beach located?

Heacham South Beach is situated on the eastern coast of Norfolk, near the village of Heacham. It offers a wide expanse of sandy shoreline backed by dunes and grassy areas, providing visitors with ample space to relax and enjoy the seaside scenery.


2) Is Heacham South Beach suitable for swimming?

Yes, Heacham South Beach is generally safe for swimming, with shallow waters and gradual slopes making it suitable for families and swimmers of all levels. However, it's essential to be mindful of any signage or warnings regarding water quality or potential hazards, especially during adverse weather conditions.

3) Is Heacham South Beach dog friendly?

Yes, Heacham South Beach is dog friendly, allowing dogs to enjoy the sand and sea throughout the year. However, dog owners should be respectful of other beachgoers and keep their pets under control at all times, particularly during busy periods.


Additionally, cleaning up after dogs is essential to maintain the cleanliness of the beach for everyone to enjoy.


Places to stay near Heacham South Beach


Image of Heacham South Beach in Norfolk

We hoped you enjoyed discovering the local finds and less known beaches which are scattered around Norfolk. We are confident that visiting some of these hidden gems will make your Norfolk trip even more memorable!


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