These are the most beautiful locations for a dip in the sea, a dish of fish and chips, and a stroll down the majestic coast, from the blue waters of Cornwall to Scotland's windy beaches.

If you think of a trip to the beach, the UK is probably not the first, second, or even third location that comes to mind. The independent nation is far from the turquoise waters and sweltering heat of more tropical areas, bordered by the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. In addition, the majority of the year is cloudy in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The beach communities in the U.K., however, are among the best-kept secrets in each nation for these reasons.

While it is possible to visit some of the major beach towns, such as Brighton or Bournemouth, the more attractive, frequently kitschy, and undoubtedly cozier coastal locations are frequently less crowded (although they become much busier in the height of summer). You can discover everything that makes a beach destination a must-see when traveling across the pond in these tiny villages and ports, including fish and chips, an ice cream cone with chocolate Flake, windy walks in wellington boots, painted beach huts, fresh oysters, nautical pubs, and some of the most picturesque locations along the British coast.

Suffolk's Southwold

Southwold is the perfect example of a coastal town in the United Kingdom. It is on the east coast and only a three-hour drive from London, making it a well-liked vacation spot for people who live in cities and have second homes. It is rich in tradition and history, much like many other areas in the UK. The village is most known for its 100-foot-tall operating lighthouse and pastel-colored beach cottages, and a midday meal of fish and chips from Sole Bay Fish Company is practically required. But the Under the Pier Show, a "unique and bizarre assemblage of interactive devices" brought to life by artist Tim Hunkin, is one of Southwold's most enduring attractions. Once you've gotten your fill of the saltwater and sand in Southwold, this is the epitome of family fun.

Cornwall's St. Ives

Cornwall, a region renowned for surfing, Cornish pasties, and beautiful beaches, must be mentioned while discussing the English coastline. While there are several places to discover in this part of the southwest, St. Ives is by far the cutest. Its crystal clear lakes and winding cobblestone alleyways are the epitomai of picturesque. There's a strong possibility that St. Ives, a little beach town in Cornwall, is what you picture when you think of that region. It is not only visually gorgeous but also perfectly balanced in terms of adventure, culture, and history. While those with an interest in the arts can visit the local galleries or buy tickets to Tate St. Ives, intrepid travelers can sign up for a session at St. Ives Surf School. Before the sun sets, climb to St. Nicholas Chapel for sweeping views of the coastline. Then, travel to The Sloop Inn, a historic tavern, for a well-earned pint.

The Isle of Mull's Tobermory

Fishing communities can be found all along the Scottish coast, but Tobermory on the Isle of Mull stands out thanks to its vibrant harborfront architecture and modest but adequate amenities. Tobermory offers several beaches with green water and white or golden sand due to its secluded location, but don't count on spending your entire day here (it is Scotland, after all). Instead, make stops at Mull Aquarium, Isle of Mull Cheese, Tobermory Chocolate, and Tobermory Distillery. If you want to explore the forest and coastal trails on foot and work up an appetite for Tobermory Chip Van's fresh fish and scallops, get going.

Coast of North Yorkshire at Robin Hood's Bay

Robin Hood's Bay is a fishing community with steep, narrow alleys, traditional fisherman's pubs, coffee shops, and charming cottages that seem to balance perfectly on the cliffside. It is only a short distance from the more well-known town of Whitby. Leave your car at home and make sure to pack walking shoes. You'll need to walk around the North York Moors town and shoreline if you choose not to park in one of the two visitor car parks (which frequently fill up). One of those locations, Robin Hood's Bay has a historic past including smugglers and pirates, as well as layers upon layers of history and secrets to uncover. At low tide, a secret beach made of sand, stones, seaweed, and other debris emerges as the water recedes, bringing the seaside's charm to life. In Robin Hood's Bay or Baytown, as it is called by locals, pets are also allowed. All year long, dogs are welcome on the beach, and many establishments also accept them.

Gwynedd's Abersoch

Travelers who want to head to Wales for a seaside holiday are drawn to Abersoch by its expansive sandy beaches and sailing waters. Although the area offers a wide range of events and attractions, you should plan to spend most of the day outside, weather permitting. For example, you may rent a beach cottage, try windsurfing or sea kayaking, or ride a bike around the harbor. Regardless of what you decide, you should always keep an eye out for dolphins and seals, as both are occasionally seen in Abersoch. The coastal town boasts a wide variety of food and beverage options. When whipping up its masterpieces, Two Islands Ice Cream employs Welsh dairy and all-natural ingredients. Both The Vaynol and St. Tudwals Inn are close to the port and marina and offer traditional, informal seaside meals and ales.

Salcombe, Devon, No. 6

Devon is a popular destination for those seeking a dreamy getaway at the great British seaside because of its coastal villages and immaculate beaches. Particularly Salcombe, with its hills that look down upon its picture-perfect harbor and pastel-colored coastline, maintains its distinction as one of the region's loveliest locations. You have the azure waters, which are occupied by sailboats of various sizes, on one side of the beach. On the other, you can find a distillery where you can make your bottle of gin, award-winning restaurants, award-winning cafes, and nautical pubs. Salcombe experiences a spike in visitors in July and August, similar to most beaches in the U.K., but outside of those months, you can still take advantage of all that the coastal town has to offer while paying less and avoiding the crowds.

In County Antrim, Cushendun

The charming village of Cushendun is a Northern Island treasure with noticeably fewer tourists than other beaches in the United Kingdom. It is situated along the well-known Causeway Coastal Route. Swimming is safe at Cushendun Beach and its protected harbor, and on a clear day, you can see the Scottish shore, which is only 15 miles distant. Visitors enjoy crab chowder, steak and Guinness pie, and Irish whiskey at Mary McBride's Bar, a place that previously claimed to be the "smallest bar in Ireland," although there aren't many places to grab a bite to eat and a drink. The Cushendun Caves, a natural feature that was used as a filming site for Game of Thrones, continue to draw tourists even though the entire National Trust-protected ancient village can be explored via lovely walkways.

Kent, Deal

The deal, on the other side of the county, has won the title of "most attractive," while Whitstable, on the north coast of Kent, became well-known for its oysters. The eccentric seaside community, together with its pebble beach, may be found in the region known as the White Cliffs Country (the famous White Cliffs of Dover may ring a bell). Wine connoisseurs shouldn't skip a trip to Le Pinardier, a wine bar and shop with regular live music and art programming, since there are many art galleries and exhibitions there. Take a seat at Middle Street Fish Bar since a trip to the ocean isn't complete without seafood. Alternatively, you might get your fish and chips to go and eat them at Deal Castle Beach, a serene area with numerous wooden fishing boats dotted around the area.