There’s something grounding about time spent by the sea – the pull of the tide, the open sky, the shift in pace. If you’re staying with us at Rest at the Nest, the North East coastline offers no shortage of places to wander, pause and simply be.

Here’s our guide to nearby beaches worth the short journey – each one offering space to breathe and something a little different, whether you’re walking the headland, collecting sea glass, or just watching the waves roll in.

Seaham Beach

Travel time from Rest at the Nest: Around 23 minutes

Pebbles underfoot, salt in the air, and a horizon that seems to stretch for miles. Seaham is best known for the pieces of sea glass scattered along its shore – shaped by time and tide, waiting to be discovered. The clifftop path is ideal for a steady walk, and the marina nearby offers places to stop for a coffee or something warm before heading back to the trees.

Blast Beach

Travel time from Rest at the Nest: Around 20 minutes

Once marked by industry, this quiet cove has been reclaimed by the elements. There’s something raw and peaceful about Blast Beach – a wide, open stretch tucked beneath high cliffs, reached by a steep but rewarding path. It’s a place for thinking walks, pockets of silence, and big skies. Bring good shoes and a sense of adventure.

Crimdon Beach

Travel time from Rest at the Nest: Around 15 minutes

Crimdon Beach is a peaceful retreat, offering a quiet escape from the bustle. With soft sand beneath your feet and the waves gently rolling in, it’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk or a relaxing afternoon. The beach is surrounded by unspoilt nature, making it perfect for a tranquil day by the sea. Don’t forget your camera – the views here are worth capturing.

Seaton Carew Beach

Travel time from Rest at the Nest: Around 20 minutes

Seaton Carew Beach offers a lively and spacious shoreline, perfect for a family outing or a peaceful stroll. The long stretch of sand is great for building sandcastles, enjoying the fresh sea breeze, or simply unwinding with a good book. Whether you’re looking to watch the waves or enjoy a sunny afternoon, Seaton Carew provides the ideal setting for a relaxing day by the coast.

Saltburn Beach

Travel time from Rest at the Nest: Around 40 minutes

Saltburn Beach, with its wide stretch of golden sand, is a classic British beach with a relaxed atmosphere. It’s great for beach walks, picnics, or simply enjoying the view of the iconic pier. The surrounding cliffs and charming town make this beach a fantastic spot to unwind, and if you fancy a wander, there’s a lovely woodland walk that leads you up the cliffs with beautiful views of the coast.

Redcar Beach

Travel time from Rest at the Nest: Around 35 minutes

Redcar offers space – for walking, watching, wandering. The promenade runs alongside the beach, making it easy to settle in at your own pace. There’s a quiet rhythm to this place, especially early in the day when the tide is out and the beach seems to stretch forever. You might spot horses being exercised along the sand or just enjoy the stillness with a bag of chips in hand.

Seaburn Beach

Travel time from Rest at the Nest: Around 35 minutes

This is an easy beach to spend time on – long, level, and open. There’s usually a few paddleboards out, and families dipping their toes in the water, but the atmosphere stays relaxed. The promenade makes it simple to take your time, whether you’re walking with purpose or just looking for somewhere to sit and listen to the sea.

Roker Beach

Travel time from Rest at the Nest: Around 35 minutes

A little more tucked away than Seaburn, Roker has a slower feel. Rockpools appear when the tide’s out, and the curved Victorian pier frames the view beautifully. It’s a good spot for early risers – especially if you enjoy watching the light change over the sea. Bring a flask, layer up, and let the morning drift in at its own pace.

Souter Lighthouse

Travel time from Rest at the Nest: Around 40 minutes

Standing proudly on the clifftops near Seaburn, Souter Lighthouse offers both stunning views and a fascinating glimpse into maritime history. As a National Trust property, it’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll along the coast. Take in the panoramic views over the North Sea, explore the lighthouse and its fascinating exhibits, or simply enjoy the peace of the surrounding landscape. A beautiful place to slow down and reconnect with nature and history.

Tynemouth Longsands

Travel time from Rest at the Nest: Around 45 minutes

With its wide expanse of golden sand and easy surf, Longsands offers a bit of everything – good walking, local shops nearby, and plenty of space to simply be. It’s a great option if you want a full day out, with a beach that’s open enough to never feel crowded. A gentle mix of people, dogs, waves and wind makes this one feel alive without ever overwhelming.

Sandhaven Beach

Travel time from Rest at the Nest: Around 45 minutes

Nestled in the heart of South Shields, Sandhaven Beach is the perfect mix of family fun and quiet reflection. The expansive beach offers plenty of space to stretch out and enjoy the sound of the waves. The nearby promenade provides a relaxed spot to sit and enjoy a coffee or ice cream, while the beach itself is ideal for leisurely walks and peaceful moments by the sea.

Coast, calm and a nest to return to

After a day on the sand or a long walk along the headland, there’s something grounding about returning to the stillness of the Nest. Whether you’re rinsing off salty toes, warming up in the outdoor tub, or sitting out beneath the trees with a glass in hand, this is what slow living is all about.

Take a little flight online to book your perfect Nest stay: https://restatthenest.co.uk/book/