
Best Summer Beach Destinations in Portsmouth, Portsmouth, United Kingdom
1. Southsea Beach
A bustling urban beach with a vibrant atmosphere, featuring a wide promenade and various food stalls.
- Family-Friendly: Offers a range of activities like paddleboarding, volleyball, and children's play areas.
- Food & Drink Options: Abundant cafes, restaurants, and ice cream parlors along the promenade.
- Events: Hosts numerous events such as the Victorious Festival and Southsea Street Food Festival.
2. Eastney Beach
A quieter, more peaceful beach with stunning views of the Isle of Wight.
- Peaceful Environment: Ideal for relaxation and unwinding away from the city crowds.
- Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the Solent and the nearby Isle of Wight.
- Dog-Friendly: Designated areas for dog walkers to enjoy the beach with their pets.
3. Southsea Castle
A historic coastal fort overlooking Southsea Beach, offering a unique blend of history and sea views.
- Historical Interest: Explore the fort's rich history, dating back to Henry VIII.
- Photography Opportunities: Ideal location for capturing beautiful beach and coastal landscapes.
- Educational Value: Learn about the fort's role in Portsmouth's defense throughout history.
4. Clarence Esplanade
A stunning seafront promenade offering stunning views of the beach and harbour.
- Walking & Jogging: Perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling with a smooth, flat surface.
- Restaurants & Cafes: Countless cafes, restaurants, and ice cream parlors along the promenade.
- Seafront Landmarks: Close proximity to landmarks such as Southsea Castle and D-Day Museum.
5. Canoe Lake
A freshwater lake nestled between the seafront and Albert Road, offering various water activities.
- Water Activities: Ideal for canoeing, kayaking, pedalo boats, and even model boating.
- Picnics & Relaxation: Ample green spaces for picnicking or simply relaxing by the lake.
- Events: Hosts events like the Southsea Festival and Pride in the Park.
6. Port Solent Marina
A modern marina with restaurants, shops, and water-based activities.
- Dining & Shopping: Wide variety of dining options and shops for visitors to enjoy.
- Water Activities: Offers activities like jet skiing, powerboating, and sailing.
- Boat Trips & Tours: Boat trips to view the coastline or visit the Isle of Wight are available.
7. Military Road Beach
A small, secluded beach offering a more laid-back atmosphere.
- Peaceful Environment: Ideal for relaxation and unwinding away from the city crowds.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible via public transport, making it convenient for visitors.
- Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Solent and the nearby Isle of Wight.
8. Gunwharf Quays
A shopping outlet with a wide variety of stores and restaurants, overlooking Port Solent Marina.
- Shopping: Countless designer and high-street stores offering discounted prices.
- Dining Options: Variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars for visitors to enjoy.
- Events: Hosts events like live music performances and outdoor cinemas during summer.
9. Milton Common Beach
A sandy beach located near the Historic Dockyard, offering a quieter environment.
- Historical Attractions: Close proximity to historical attractions like the Mary Rose and HMS Warrior.
- Peaceful Environment: Ideal for relaxation and unwinding in a quieter setting.
- Views: Enjoy stunning views of Portsmouth Harbour and the Spinnaker Tower.
10. Elm Grove Beach
A small, picturesque beach located near Southsea Castle, offering a more laid-back atmosphere.
- Peaceful Environment: Ideal for relaxation and unwinding away from the city crowds.
- Views: Enjoy stunning views of Southsea Castle, Clarence Esplanade, and the seafront.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible via public transport, making it convenient for visitors.
11. Thorney Island Beach
A peaceful, sandy beach with military bases on either side, offering a unique atmosphere.
- Peaceful Environment: Ideal for relaxation and unwinding in a quieter setting.
- Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Solent and the nearby Isle of Wight.
- Military Interest: Learn about the military history and operations at Thorney Island.
12. Langstone Beach
A small, secluded beach located near the Langstone Harbour, offering a tranquil atmosphere.
- Peaceful Environment: Ideal for relaxation and unwinding in a quieter setting.
- Views: Enjoy stunning views of Langstone Harbour, the Solent, and the nearby Isle of Wight.
- Wildlife Spotting: Opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting due to its location in a nature reserve.
13. Camber Beach
A large, sandy beach located near the Langstone Harbour, offering ample space and activities.
- Space & Activities: Ideal for families and groups seeking a spacious area with various activities.
- Views: Enjoy stunning views of Langstone Harbour, the Solent, and the nearby Isle of Wight.
- Wildlife Spotting: Opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting due to its location in a nature reserve.
14. Hayling Island Beach
A long, sandy beach located on Hayling Island, offering ample space and activities.
- Space & Activities: Ideal for families and groups seeking a spacious area with various activities.
- Views: Enjoy stunning views of the Solent and the nearby Hayling Billy Line.
- Ferry Services: Accessible via frequent ferry services from Portsmouth Harbour.
15. Wembley Beach
A small, sandy beach located near the Hayling Billy Line, offering a more laid-back atmosphere.
- Peaceful Environment: Ideal for relaxation and unwinding away from the city crowds.
- Views: Enjoy stunning views of the Solent and the nearby Hayling Billy Line.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible via public transport, making it convenient for visitors.