Coastal Holiday Cottages by the Sea

Browse coastal holiday cottages across the UK, from stays with direct beach access or sea views to homes within walking distance of the shore or a short drive from the coast.

The right coastal cottage depends on what you want from the location. You may be looking for a beach on the doorstep, a sea view from the property, a walk to a harbour or coast path, or a practical base for exploring a stretch of coastline. Use the filters to narrow your search, then check each listing for the exact coastal relationship, distance and access details before booking.

 

An oak-beamed lounge with a woodburner, wide-screen TV and a comfy sofa.
  • Sleeps 7
  • Bedrooms 4

The Lofthouse is a spacious Somerset holiday apartment within striking distance of the beach in Minehead. The apartment retains exposed beams, stone walls and other original features and blends this with chic coastal décor and light-filled spaces. Enjoy easy access to the best of Minehead, Exmoor and the Somerset coast.

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Gable end of a 3-storey period house with 2st floor balcony flanked by mature treees
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

The Observatory is a delightful holiday cottage located in Essex on Osea Island. It offers a serene escape for those seeking a peaceful getaway. To access the private island, guests can cross over a tidal causeway. Once there, they can enjoy exclusive access to a private beach, a saltwater lido, an outdoor heated swimming pool, and other amenities. The cottage features a comfortable lounge, a well-equipped kitchen diner, and a private balcony with outstanding views of the island. Two stylish bedrooms ensure guests have a restful stay. Its remarkable location makes it an ideal spot for special celebrations or family holidays.

 

 

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Aerial view of a large Exmoor farmhouse and farm yard surrounded by fields.
  • Sleeps 10
  • Bedrooms 5

This large country farm cottage on Exmoor has five bedrooms, four bathrooms, numerous reception rooms, a well-equipped games room, a large farmhouse kitchen with an Aga and seating area, plus a formal dining room. All linen, towels, central heating etc., included. Use of tennis court - don't forget your equipment! Plenty of great walking, horse riding, mountain biking, wild swimming and exploring places on Exmoor. Pets are welcome too.

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Chapel conversion exterior with tall arched windows near Polruan
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Enjoy self-catering holidays in Polruan at The Old Sunday School. Nestled in South Cornwall, this converted Sunday school offers a cosy coastal retreat between Fowey and Polperro. Enjoy a peaceful escape with a charming living space, a wood burner, and countryside views. Modern amenities, a courtyard garden, and easy beach access make it an ideal choice. Bring your well-behaved dog to share coastal walks. Discover the perfect balance of comfort and tranquillity—view the property’s full description now.

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Gable end of an Essex holiday apartment with large balcony and flanked by horse chestnut trees.
  • Sleeps 5
  • Bedrooms 2

Looking for a luxurious and relaxing getaway? Look no further than The Penthouse, a stunning Essex holiday cottage located on the peaceful Osea Island. This centrally located retreat offers easy access to a private beach, a saltwater lido, and a heated outdoor swimming pool. With a spacious lounge, a well-equipped kitchen, and two comfortable bedrooms, you'll have everything you need to unwind and enjoy your stay. Plus, the master bedroom boasts an en suite with a roll-top bath for the ultimate indulgence. Communal amenities such as a cinema room, gym, and games room are also available for your enjoyment. Whether you're planning a special celebration or a family getaway, The Penthouse is the perfect choice. Don't miss out - discover more about this exquisite island escape today!

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  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

This beautiful Devon penthouse apartment in Torcrossis overlooks Slapton Sands, a three-mile stretch of shingle beach. With its own entrance, three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a gorgeous open-plan living space, we can't think of a better place to enjoy a break on the South Devon coast.

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A bungalow surrounded by lawns and open countryside on the West Somerset coast..
  • Sleeps 2
  • Bedrooms 1

The Pippins is a charming detached cottage that provides a romantic getaway for couples in Old Cleeve, a coastal village located in West Somerset. This award-winning cottage offers guests the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful and tranquil holiday in one of the most beautiful regions of England, positioned perfectly between the rolling Quantock Hills and the stunning Bristol Channel coast. It boasts a sunroom and delightful grounds, making it an ideal choice for a romantic retreat.

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A converted stone-built, remote Exmoor schoolhouse with a lawn and large patio.
  • Sleeps 13
  • Bedrooms 5

The School House is a large holiday cottage on the North Devon coast near Lynmouth. The pet-friendly cottage features a wood burner and other traditional details and boasts a beautiful garden with a running stream and rural views.

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A Weymouth apartment deck with a table laid for breakfast.
  • Sleeps 2
  • Bedrooms 1

Discover the homely comforts of The Seafoal, a Lyme Regis holiday apartment, perfect for a seaside retreat for two. Enjoy breathtaking sea views, a private roof terrace, and a king-size bed. This contemporary haven, nestled behind Lyme’s main high street, offers a prime location with onsite parking. Immerse yourself in comfort with a well-equipped kitchen, smart TV, and Juliet balcony. Explore Lyme Regis’s charm, beaches, and iconic landmarks from this exclusive second-floor escape. Experience the best of the coast at The Seafoal – your ideal seaside apartment.

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Against a woodland backdrop, a large cottage with a spacious deck overlooks a flower and shrub-filled garden surrounding a lawn.
  • Sleeps 2
  • Bedrooms 1

The Stable Block is an Exmoor holiday cottage for couples near the ancient seaside village of Porlock Weir with underfloor heating and an open-plan living and dining area. It's perfect for romantic breaks on the Somerset coast. This dog-friendly cottage features a Juliette balcony and has gorgeous views of the garden and Porlock Bay,

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A modern, 2-storey, half-timbered house overlooks a long garden and paved terrace lined by palm trees.
  • Sleeps 9
  • Bedrooms 5

Tredarloe is a comfortable 5-bedroom detached South Devon holiday home. This large holiday property in Salcombe has lovely rural views with estuary glimpses and spacious suntrap gardens, including a patio, raised decking area, balcony and large lawn.

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A two storey Marazion holiday cottage overlooks a lawned garden and sweeping sea views.
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

A stunning Cornish cottage located right on the coast of Marazion, offering breathtaking views of St Michael's Mount. The holiday home features three spacious bedrooms, original details, and a luxurious interior, providing truly relaxing seaside holidays in Cornwall.

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Exterior of a stone-built holiday cottage in Dunster with a secure front garden.
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

Two Grooms Cottage promises refinement. The luxury holiday home in Dunster is fitted to an exceptionally high standard and is situated in the heart of the village. The stone-built rural cottage blends tradition with contemporary styles and offers spacious, well-appointed rooms plus access to the delights of the Exmoor National Park.

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A large Someerset house overlooks a spacious lawn lined by flowering shrubs and trees.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Vale View Apartment is a light, airy, spacious first-floor holiday apartment in Porlock Weir within the west wing of a beautiful Edwardian hunting lodge. Patio doors open onto a private balcony with a table and chairs overlooking the front of the property. Sleeps four guests.

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Choose the right kind of coastal stay

“By the sea” can mean different things. A cottage with direct beach access offers a different experience from a property with a sea view, while a home a few miles inland may suit guests who want to explore several beaches and coastal towns by car.

If you are looking for…Check the listing for…
Time on the beachDirect access, walking distance, beach type and the route to the shore
A sea viewWhere the view is from and whether it is open, partial or seasonal
Coastal walksAccess to the coast path, route details and nearby parking
A family beach holidayBeach distance, parking, outdoor space and bedroom layout
A dog-friendly breakProperty dog rules and any seasonal restrictions on nearby beaches
A quieter coastal baseThe nearest town, beach, road access and local amenities

What to check before booking a cottage by the sea

  • Distance to the coast: Check whether the beach is on the doorstep, walkable or reached by car.
  • Beach access: Look at the route, including paths, steps, roads, cliffs or tide-dependent access where relevant.
  • Sea views: Confirm whether a view is from the property itself and which rooms or outdoor areas it can be enjoyed from.
  • The beach and local area: Sand, shingle, harbour, surf beach and coastal-path access can suit different kinds of break.
  • Parking and transport: Coastal villages and popular beaches can have limited parking, particularly in busy periods.
  • Dogs: Check both the cottage’s dog policy and the local beach restrictions for your travel dates.
  • Booking details: Confirm availability, stay length and total price for the dates you want.

More coastal holiday ideas

For properties by rivers, lakes, canals and other waterways, browse our waterside cottages. You can also combine your search with dog-friendly cottages, walking holidays, short breaks, cottages with hot tubs or cottages with swimming pools.

Frequently asked questions

No. Some have direct beach access, some have sea views or are within walking distance of the shore, and others are a short drive from the coast. Check the individual listing for the exact location details.

No. A coastal location does not automatically mean a sea view. Look for a specific sea-view description on the property listing.

This varies by property. Check the distance, route and access information before booking, especially if you are travelling with young children, limited mobility or a dog.

Many welcome dogs, but rules vary between properties and local beaches can have seasonal restrictions. Check both before making plans.

Not always. Waterside cottages can be beside rivers, lakes, canals or lochs. For a holiday focused on the sea and shoreline, use this Coastal Cottages collection.