Hunstanton – Main Beach

When describing the majority of North Norfolk’s beaches, phrases such as “undisturbed landscapes”, “wild and natural” and “peace and tranquility” leap to mind, but Hunstanton offers something completely different – unapologetic family fun.

Sunny Hunny was designed and purpose-built in the 1840’s as a Victorian seaside resort town, partly because it is – unusually for the east coast – west-facing, enjoying glorious sunsets over The Wash and shelter from North Sea winds.

Hunstanton Main Beach covers the area from the north end of the promenade where the famous red and white cliffs begin, down to the boat launch ramp, where powerboats, jetskis and the Wash Monsters enter the sea.

The beach itself is mostly sand with some shingle. Being a very shallow beach, the sea goes out a long way, but that does mean that it’s easy to get cut off on a sand bank when the tide comes back in. Visitors are advised to be aware of tide times when spending time on the beach.

In addition to the kiosks selling candy floss, doughnuts and ice creams, the promenade offers noise, thrills, entertainment and spectacle. The Rainbow Park funfair has fairground rides suitable for all ages; the Oasis Leisure Centre features a swimming pool with an aqua slide, a fun castle and roller skating; Blackbeards Adventure Golf is an 18 hole pirate themed mini golf course; and the Sea Life Centre has an aquarium, penguin beach and rescue seal sanctuary.

In summer, pony rides are available for small children on the beach.

Hunstanton is a popular beach for kite surfing, stand up paddleboarding, windsurfing and powerkiting. Lessons are available from Hunstanton Watersports.

Searle’s Sea Tours offer Coastal Cruises and Seal Safaris from Hunstanton Beach on their two Wash Monsters – 60-seater ex-military amphibious landing craft, originally designed to be used by American forces in Vietnam.

A beach patrol operates in the summer months to advise on water and beach safety. First aid and a lost child service is also available.

For a more sedate experience, the town Green, set just back behind the promenade, offers a pleasant place to spread out a blanket and do some people-watching. A band often plays on the bandstand on a Sunday afternoon.

Running from The Green along the top of the cliffs, The Esplanade Gardens are a traditional Victorian promenade garden, with bowling green and children’s play area, with elevated views over the sea below and across The Wash to Lincolnshire.