Eight of the prettiest beach spa locations

From clifftop hotels to pools with ocean views, the UK has so many beautiful beaches and coastal destinations. From Cornwall to Pembrokeshire, family escapes to romantic retreats, here are some of the prettiest beach spa locations to visit.

Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa, Newquay

Smell the sea air when you wake up in the morning at this clifftop hotel and stroll down to the beach below for a quick surf before breakfast. Few things could be more invigorating, and this part of the Cornish coast is well known for its water sports. Then again, it’s also a magnificent place to simply stay and watch the waves crash as you sip your morning cup of tea before floating off to the spa and swimming under a starlit ceiling.

Bedruthan Hotel and Spa, Newquay

Another clifftop retreat, Bedruthan Hotel and Spa sits above the beach at Mawgan Porth. Enjoy views of the Atlantic from the spa swimming pool or stroll down the steps to one of the north coast’s most dramatic beauty spots. Stroll long the foreshore, go for a swim, or hop on a body board and ride the waves.

St Ives Harbour Hotel and Spa, St Ives

A modern, luxurious hotel, St Ives Harbour Hotel and Spa is part of the Harbour Hotels group, and is located in the pretty town of St Ives, known for its Barbara Hepworth sculptures as well as its coastal views. Amongst its great assets, the hotel has direct access onto the award winning Porthminster beach - half mile crescent of powder-fine sand, nestled beneath the steep slopes of Porthminster Point. It enjoys unbeatable views of St Ives Harbour on one side and Godrevy Lighthouse on the other.

Lamphey Court Hotel and Spa, Pembrokeshire

This Georgian mansion dates back to 1823 and is surrounded by Pembrokeshire National Park. However, it’s also just two miles from secluded coves and beaches with coastal paths to reach them - perfect for a day of exploration before returning to spa treatments and superb food. Enjoy miles of golden sand, washed by the Atlantic Ocean and warmed by the Gulf Stream current.

Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa, West Sussex

A luxurious fusion of historic architecture and contemporary wellbeing, Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa sits in 30 acres of private parkland leading to Climping beach. A quiet rural beach located about halfway Littlehampton and Bognor, stretching along the coast and teaming with wildlife. So much so, that the eastern half is designated a Local Nature Reserve called West Beach. Guests at the hotel delight in a walk or jog along the water’s edge to add to their wellbeing escape.

The Bournemouth West Cliff Hotel, Bournemouth

This hotel couldn’t be more conveniently located for enjoying all the best aspects of Bournemouth, from its shops, pubs and restaurants to its beaches. The hotel is located a 10-minute walk away from the quieter Durley Chine beach, which enables you to walk to either Bournemouth pier or the exclusive Sandbanks beach area to the right, both no more than 15-minute walk along the golden sand or promenade.

The Grand Hotel, Eastbourne

The Grand Hotel is, unsurprisingly, architecturally impressive and gives you the sense of being transported back in time. It’s location also offers abundant feel-good factor, close to Eastbourne’s award-winning beach. The area has more than three miles of vast shingle sands - perfect for strolling, sunbathing and sometimes rock pooling as well!

Polurrian on the Lizard, Mullion

This hotel on the Lizard in Cornwall is in an unrivalled location atop a cliff overlooking the crashing waves. Everything here takes advantage of the great outdoors, from the food to the views. The hotel is also surrounded by beaches to visit, including a privately-owned beach which offers safe sandy bathing and a quiet haven for families. Mullion Harbour with its fishing boats is a few minutes’ walk away, and you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to coastal strolls.