Nothing beats a deep breath of fresh, sea air! If you’re looking for a day out by the sea, Essex will not disappoint you. With 350 miles of coastline, it has one of the longest shorelines of any county in England.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional day out at a quintessentially British seaside town, hiring a beach hut and tucking into fish and chips; a day exploring the remote salt marshes and wildlife, eating fresh seafood, or a day rich in maritime history, Essex has it all.
Explore Southend-On-Sea which boasts the longest pleasure pier in the world, enjoy a hand-made ice-cream, get your thrills at Adventure Island or in the traditional arcades and relax by the sea with a plate full of fish, chips and mushy peas.
If cockles are more your thing, head to Leigh-On-Sea and take your pick from the selection of fish restaurants and cockle sheds. Or take a trip to Mersea Island for fresh oysters and a sandy beach.
Across the other side of the River Blackwater, sits Bradwell-On-Sea. Enjoy a long, remote walk along the saltmarsh trail, from Bradwell to Burnham-On-Crouch. Enjoy a snack or a meal at one of the many pubs in the small yachting town.
Or head over to Harwich to discover the historic story of this maritime town.
Be sure to check out our list of coastal destinations to plan your perfect day trip to Essex.