Norfolk Beach Road Trip

Route overview

Big skies, golden beaches, seal colonies, colourful beach huts, seafood stops and some of the best sunsets in East Anglia — this Norfolk beach road trip is a.

Follow the route

Big skies, golden beaches, seal colonies, colourful beach huts, seafood stops and some of the best sunsets in East Anglia — this Norfolk beach road trip is a beauty.

Starting at Hunstanton and finishing at Great Yarmouth, this route follows the Norfolk coast through wild nature reserves, traditional seaside towns and peaceful sandy stretches that feel made for slow exploring.

About the Journey

It’s a favourite with motorcyclists, who love the sweeping coastal roads, open countryside and relaxed pace, while drivers, campervan travellers and day trippers will find plenty of opportunities to stop, explore and soak up the scenery. Along the way you’ll discover famous beaches such as Holkham and Wells-next-the-Sea, watch grey seals at Horsey Gap, enjoy fresh Cromer crab by the pier, wander picturesque harbours and experience everything from peaceful dunes to lively seaside resorts.

Whether you’re chasing sunsets at Hunstanton, enjoying fish and chips overlooking the sea, or simply taking your time between one beautiful beach and the next, this road trip perfectly captures the best of the Norfolk coast.

Perfect for: Motorbikes • Cars • Campervans • Couples • Families • Dog owners • Beach lovers • Wildlife enthusiasts • Photographers

Top tip: Set aside a full day if you’re driving straight through, but a weekend allows plenty of time to explore the beaches, enjoy the local food and experience the charming coastal towns without feeling rushed.

Route Stops

A) Hunstanton Beach — PE36 6GB

Parking: South Promenade Car Park

Known as “Sunny Hunny”, Hunstanton is famous for its red-and-white striped cliffs and west-facing position, which makes it one of the best sunset spots on the Norfolk coast. Expect rock pools, shallow water, family fun and classic seaside charm.

🚗 Road Trip Essentials

• 🕶 Polarised Sunglasses
• 📱 Car Phone Holder
• 🔋 Portable Power Bank
• 🔌 Multi USB Car Charger
• 🧊 Insulated Cool Bag
• 🥤 Reusable Water Bottle

B) Brancaster Beach — PE31 8AX

Parking: Brancaster Beach Car Park

Huge skies, wide sands and a wild coastal feel. Brancaster is brilliant for long walks, dog-friendly beach time and big open views. The SS Vina shipwreck can be seen offshore, but don’t try to walk out to it — the National Trust warns of fast tides, hidden channels and the danger of being cut off.

C) Holkham Beach — NR23 1RJ

Parking: Holkham Beach Car Park

One of Norfolk’s real showstoppers. Holkham is vast, natural and backed by dunes, pinewoods and nature reserve landscapes. It’s part of Holkham National Nature Reserve, known for rare wildlife and beautiful open habitats.

D) Wells-next-the-Sea Beach — NR23 1DR

Parking: Wells Beach Car Park

A Norfolk classic. Colourful beach huts, soft sand, pinewoods and a proper holiday feel. It pairs perfectly with Wells harbour, fish and chips, ice cream and a slow wander along the quay.

🏖 Beach Essentials

• 🧺 Picnic Blanket
• 🪑 Folding Camping Chairs
• ☀️ SPF 30+ Sunscreen
• 🧢 Sun Hat
• 🧴 After Sun Lotion
• 🩴 Flip Flops / Beach Shoes
• 🏖 Windbreak
• 🏐 Beach Games

E) Sheringham Beach — NR26 8BG

Parking: Station Road Car Park

A lovely traditional seaside stop with a mix of sand and shingle, rock pools at low tide, cafés, shops and a proper coastal town atmosphere.

F) Cromer Beach — NR27 9HX

Parking: Cromer Pier Car Park

Cromer brings the classic Victorian seaside magic — pier, promenade, beach, seafood and that proper Norfolk coast feel. It’s a great place to pause for crab, chips or a sunset stroll.

G) Mundesley Beach — NR11 8BQ

Parking: Beach Road Car Park

A quieter, family-friendly beach with colourful huts, cliffs and a relaxed village feel. Ideal if you want a softer stop away from the busier resorts.

H) Horsey Beach — NR29 4EF

Parking: Horsey Gap Car Park

One of Norfolk’s most memorable wildlife stops. Horsey is famous for its grey seal colony, especially during winter pupping season. Keep well back, follow signs, use viewing areas and never approach seals — guidance is to stay at least 100 metres away from seals and wildlife.

I) Great Yarmouth Beach — NR30 2EN

Parking: North Drive Car Park

Finish with full seaside energy: golden sands, amusements, piers, arcades and classic family holiday fun. It’s the liveliest stop on the route and a big contrast to the wild beaches earlier in the trip.

Why This Route Works

This route gives you the full Norfolk coast in one adventure — peaceful beaches, wildlife, wide-open sands, beach huts, seafood, seaside towns and proper coastal drama.

Best for: families, couples, dog walkers, photographers, beach lovers and road trip fans.
Top tip: check tide times before visiting Brancaster, Holkham, Wells and Horsey. Some beaches are huge and tidal, and conditions can change quickly.

Activities in Norfolk — Click Here →

FAQ’s

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