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Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Daily Mirror
Underrated UK seaside town is completely 'overlooked' but full of charm
This seaside town in Yorkshire is home to an award-winning beach and newly rebuilt promenade, though it is unfortunately overlooked by flashier resort towns You may not have heard of this charming seaside town, but that's exactly why it should be the setting of your next staycation. Often overlooked by Brits who beeline for destinations like Filey and Scarborough, this Yorkshire town is ideal for a quiet, cultural escape. Withernsea has all the landmarks of a classic British seaside resort, except for the massive crowds. Travellers can peruse the local fish and chip shops and arcades without the long queues and exceptional mark-ups, and also enjoy an award-winning beach in peace. Withernsea's beach stretches for miles along the clear waters of the North Sea. The beach has managed to keep its Blue Flag status by maintaining exceptional water quality standards and shore cleanliness, going above and beyond to ensure its facilities are well managed. The seaside town also recently redesigned and rebuilt its promenade and now boasts garden and play areas, as well as an open-air stage for summer entertainment. On the promenade, the Pier Towers are now the last surviving parts of the once-thriving 19th century pier. Withernsea's wide promenade reaches north and south from Pier Towers, the historic entrance to a once 1,200-foot long pier, built in 1877. The pier was continually reduced in length after consistent damage from ships before it was eventually removed in full. While the pier is no longer there, the Pier Towers mark the place where it once stood and a model of the pier stands on the promenade close to the towers with plaques that describe its gradual demise. The Towers were fully restored in 2019 and are currently operated by the Withernsea Pier and Promenade Association. The new Towers were opened to the public in June 2020 and contain several exhibitions and art and craft stalls. Within the structure, visitors can read the plans for the new Withernsea Pier, the Coastal Change Observatory, Windmills of Holderness and historic pictures of Withernsea. Today, the Towers also represent the town's maritime history, which can be explored at the museum located in the inland lighthouse. The famous lighthouse towers 127 feet above the beach and is the home of the Lighthouse Museum. The distinct serenity of the area has made the town particularly popular with retirees looking to escape the chaos of the city. Though there are growing concerns among residents about the local economy with a high turnover of independent businesses on the high street. Valley Gardens is a must-visit spot, defined by its beautifully landscaped open space with ample seating. The Valley Gardens is the venue for the popular annual Summertime Special, and throughout the season its a hub for events in Withernsea. Another annual event to keep an eye out for is Withernsea's Blue Light Weekend. The event pays tribute to the emergency services and safety forces with a host of demonstrations from emergency teams. The festival also has live entertainment, interactive exhibitions, games and food stalls. In 2025, the festival will run from August 2 to August 3.
Time Out Abu Dhabi
3 days ago
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
The best beaches in Abu Dhabi for a day in the sun
While it can be relaxing to sit by the pool and sip on beverages, there's nothing better than putting your feet in warm sand. If you're looking for the best beaches in Abu Dhabi, we have you covered. Abu Dhabi might be a bustling city with glamorous skyscrapers and breathtaking architecture, but it also makes for the perfect sun, sea and sand destination thanks to its beautiful beaches. Whether you're a resident in the city or a tourist, you can spend your days dipping in and out of crystal-clear oceans and soaking up the sun, enjoy evenings watching a picturesque sunset over the Arabian Sea or be the life of the party at one of Abu Dhabi's popular beach clubs. The capital is home to an array of both private and public beaches that are all worth a visit. Here are the best beaches in Abu Dhabi. Al Maya Island & Resort If you want to relax but also like a party atmosphere then this could be ideal: Al Maya has one of the best beaches in Abu Dhabi for a party. Especially for the ladies, who get to go free if they arrive before 3pm all week. Catch a boat from a dock next to the Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana and then take a 20-minute jaunt over to this resort. On weekends there's a party atmosphere where you can lie on one of the many sun loungers, sit around the poolside bar, hit the dance floor and party to tunes being spun by top DJs, or jump into the massive pool and socialise around the swim-up bar. Dhs200 (weekdays) Dhs250 (weekends and public holidays). Open Sun-Fri, 10am-8pm, (02 667 7777 ). Al Bateen With stunning views of Hudayriat Island and the bridge, Al Bateen Beach caters to everyone. There are locals, residents and tourists and because of its calm, shallow waters and a prestigious Blue Flag sustainability award by the Emirates Wildlife Authority, it's a great option for families too. There are also several food and beverage outlets, volleyball courts, sports activities, washrooms, changing rooms and showers. Free. Open daily 8am-sunset. Al Bateen Beach, Khalifa Al Mubarak Street, off Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street. Corniche beach You've probably driven past it lots of times but have you ever spent a day on the beach on the Corniche? It's one of the best beaches in Abu Dhabi for a quick trip. The pristine beachfront is a fantastic family spot on which to enjoy a relaxed day. The seaside boardwalk is four miles long and the walkways are paved and dotted with benches and gardens that overlook the ocean. Surrounding the Corniche beach there are children's play areas, separate cycle and pedestrian pathways, cafés and restaurants. Dhs10 for adults and Dh5 for kids over five, Dhs25 per sun lounger. Open daily 8am-8pm. Corniche Rd. Kai Beach Saadiyat Looking for the best beach not just in Abu Dhabi but the whole of the Middle East? Well, you are in luck because it happens to be right here on our doorstep. The dreamy Saadiyat Island was named 'Middle East's Leading Beach Destination' for the 11th consecutive year in 2024 (yes, 11 years) and Kai Beach happens to be one of the beaches on Saadiyat's shores. Open daily from 7am to sunset, there are no reservations and entry is on a first come first served basis. Dhs150 (adults, Mon-Thu, Dhs50 redeemable on F&B), Dhs75 (kids, Mon-Thu, Dhs25 redeemable on F&B), Dhs150 (Fri, ladies only), Dhs225 (adults, Sat-Sun, Dhs50 redeemable on F&B), Dhs100 (kids, Sat-Sun, Dhs25 redeemable on F&B). Open daily 7amsunset. Kai Beach, Saadiyat Island, Hudayriat Beach Located in Hudayriat Island, this beach keeps getting better and better. There are plenty of food trucks and restaurants around for when hunger strikes (Wingstop, W.T.F. and Shrimp Pot are just some of the options), plus plenty of fun activities for kids and adults alike. We're talking kids' pool and a splash park, a volleyball court, an outdoor gym and cycle paths. Oh, and did we mention it's free? Yep, pretty awesome. Free. Open daily 8am to 7pm. Hudayriat Beach, Hudayriat Island, @marsanahudayriyat. Mamsha Beach Saadiyat Island (formerly Soul Beach) Soul Beach closed for refurbishment earlier this year and, in the words of the T-Swift, she can't come to the phone because… it now answers to Mamsha Beach Saadiyat Island (which makes sense since it's on – you guessed it – Mamsha). An easy choice when you want a day of complete beach bliss, it boasts powdery white sand and Saadiyat blues – what more could you ask for? Not only will you get a 10/10 beach day but you also have some pretty good restaurants within walking distance. There's Pickl for a great burger, Italian favourite Antonia (the winner for best Casual Dining at the Time out Abu Dhabi Awards 2025), Niri (the winner for Best Japanese at the Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant Awards 2025) and TOTÓ (highly commended), Cristiano Ronaldo and Rafael Nadal's first restaurant in the capital. Open daily 8am-sunset. Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island. @mamshabeachsaadiyat (050 929 0936). Marsana Beach There are two Marsana beaches to pick from: East and West. Marsana East opened recently and it offers premium amenities for Dhs50 on weekdays and Dhs100 on the weekends. Marsana West offers a cheaper alternative – Dhs25 on weekdays and Dhs50 on weekends. They're both located on Hudayriat Island, right next to free Hudayriat Beach. From Dhs25. Open daily 8am to 7pm. Marsana Beach, Hudayriat Island, @marsanahudayriyat. Yas Beach Styling itself as a 'beach playground' big on beats and brunches, Yas Beach is a must-visit spot – especially because of its prime location to watch the sunset. The club is home to restaurants and a bar, as well as being a spot to enjoy plenty of watersports. There's a fee to get in, but it's also free if you're staying at any of the hotels on Yas Island. Open daily 10am-7pm. Dhs80 (adults, Mon-Thu), Dhs150 (adults Fri-Sun, public holidays), free (kids 11 and under when with an adult). Yas Beach, Yas Island. @ (056 242 0435). You might also like… Abu Dhabi's best restaurants 2025: Everywhere you should eat at least once Your dinner inspo is sorted 12 fantastic road trips across the GCC Fill up the tank and go Abu Dhabi to Dubai by bus: How to travel between the two cities Everything you need to know, from getting a Nol card to bus timetables Old Abu Dhabi: 15 best spots to uncover the history of the capital Peel back the layers of time
Time of India
4 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Special wheelchairs, two more play areas for Marina beach
1 2 3 Chennai: Greater Chennai Corporation plans to procure mechanized wheelchairs for individuals with disabilities as part of the Blue Flag initiative at Marina beach. These wheelchairs are specially designed to move with ease on sand. Apart from that, two more children's play areas will soon be added under the initiative. "Although a ramp is already there, it does not extend all the way to the sea. These mechanized wheelchairs, which can move on sand, would be a welcome addition, especially for children who have never had the chance to visit the beach," said GCC commissioner J Kumaragurubaran. The civic body first plans to purchase two beach wheelchairs at an estimated 1.15 lakh each. More wheelchairs would be procured as the number of beachgoers grows in the future. In addition to this, facilities such as a meditation room, changing room, breastfeeding room, and a clothing storage area will also be built. The beach is expected to be opened for the public by the end of June. "Once the project is completed, it will be handed over to an operations and maintenance contractor. It will be a maintenance-based scheme and free for the public to visit. A dedicated worker will be assigned to maintain cleanliness," added Kumaragurubaran.
Scottish Sun
5 days ago
- Scottish Sun
The six cleanest beaches in the UK where you can safely swim in the sea this summer
One is near the village known as Wales' 'Italian Riviera' WATER WORKS The six cleanest beaches in the UK where you can safely swim in the sea this summer Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) SUMMER is coming in hot and soon, and lots of us will descend on the UK's beaches, but which ones are the cleanest and best to swim in? Which? has revealed the top six UK beaches with the highest water quality that are perfect for a dip. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 These are the six beaches in the UK with the cleanest waters 5 Bamburgh in Northumberland has some of the cleanest coastal waters Credit: Alamy There's good news for anyone who lives in or is planning to visit the village of Bamburgh in Northumberland. The waters off the coast have been classified as 'excellent' - which is highest and cleanest rating designated by the Environment Agency. Not only that but visitors can take in the beautiful views of Bamburgh Castle too which sits on top of a nearby hillside. Over in Wales, Portmeirion is known as the 'Italian Riviera' because of its folly village. It was built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis which he turned into a Mediterranean looking sub-tropical gardens with a piazza and historic cottages. However, there are lots of beaches there too like Harlech which is part of the Snowdonia National Park. The waters here have also been classified as excellent by the government agency Natural Resources Wales, meaning they're perfect for swimming and paddling. Another area where the waters have been classified as being of high quality and cleanliness is in St Andrews, Fife in Scotland. St. Andrews has several beaches, like East Sands, which meets the high standards, it's a sandy stretch of beach with a path on the inland side. East Sands is close to the harbour and sailing club meaning it's a hotspot for watersports like surfing and sailing. UK beach named one of the top 100 in the world 5 East Sands Beach in St Andrews is much cleaner than its neighbour West Sands Credit: Alamy Currently the bigger, and most well-known beach in St Andrews called West Sands, is currently rated as 'good'. This means the water quality is generally not as clean as its neighbour, according to Which?. Two beaches in Tynemouth, North Tyneside have Blue Flag status, Long Sands beach and King Edward's Bay - they are also both classed as 'excellent' when it comes to water quality. Which? advises not to swim in Cullercoats Bay which is nearby, but failed to meet the minimum standards for water quality - so it's best just to frolic on the sand for this one. 5 Whitesands Bay near St Davids has water quality rated 'excellent' Credit: Alamy Very near the UK's smallest city, aka St Davids in Pembrokeshire, is Whitesands Bay. It's a hit with surfers and swimmers alike for good reason - the 'excellent' water quality. Along the Suffolk coastline is the town of Southwold whose beach is among one of the cleanest. It's lined with colourful beach huts and has a long pier full of arcade games and fun fair rides. Southwold Pier Beach received a rating of excellent and is a very popular tourist spot during the summer months. Here are more UK beaches, and these three have been named the best in Europe by Tripadvisor this year. And here is one of England's most secluded beaches you can now only reach by boat. Here Are TheSix Best Beaches For Swimming in the UK Bamburgh, Northumberland Portmeiron, Gwynedd (Wales) St Andrews, Fife (Scotland) Tynemouth, North Tyneside St David's, Pembrokeshire (Wales) Southwold, Suffolk
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
USA TODAY's 10BEST declares this southeast beach the best in Florida. Do you agree?
Need ideas for your summer weekend trips? How about relaxing on some of the top beaches in the state. USA TODAY's 10BEST released its winners for its "Readers' Choice Awards," including its ranking of the best beaches in Florida. The beaches were selected by a panel of travel experts and the final nominations were voted on by readers. "From the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf Coast, the Sunshine State boasts 825 miles of beaches, many of which are ranked among the best on the planet," 10BEST writes. "And an average of 230 days of sunshine a year make Florida's shoreline hard to resist for vacationers looking for sun, sand, and sea." Readers have officially declared it — Delray Beach is the best in the state. Housed in Palm Beach County, it is a popular tourist destination with boutique shops and restaurants. "Nestled between Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach, Delray Beach, known as the 'Village by the Sea,' boasts a serene coastline with crystal-clear blue waters just steps from its vibrant downtown. With 2 miles of pristine sand and natural dunes, the beach was gifted to the city in the 1800s to ensure year-round public access," 10BEST writes. It also notes Delray Beach is one of just two beaches in the U.S. to earn the prestigious Blue Flag award. Delray Beach Clearwater Treasure Island Lauderdale-By-The-Sea Stuart Sanibel St. Pete Beach Siesta Key Destin St. Augustine Just 218 miles North of Florida's best beach sits the best beach bar in the entire country — Daytona Beach's Ocean Deck Restaurant and Beach Bar. "This laid-back beachfront bar features daily live music, plus karaoke and DJs to keep you consistently entertained. Their 32-ounce tropical Bacardi buckets are renowned, there's a huge selection of draft and bottled beer, and the crab cakes, fish and chips, and other freshly caught seafood dinners are the perfect accompaniment to the gorgeous ocean views." Along with the Ocean Deck, two other Florida spots made the top 10: Ocean Deck Restaurant and Beach Bar - Daytona Beach, Florida Flora-Bama - Pensacola, Florida Tiki Hut at Beach House - Hilton Head Island, South Carolina Reunion Kitchen + Drink - Santa Barbara, California Copper Bar's Mauna Kea Beach Hotel - Waimea, Hawaii Mai Tai Bar at the Royal Hawaiian - Honolulu, Hawaii Sloppy Joe's on the Beach - Treasure Island, Florida The Crow's Nest - Santa Cruz, California House Without A Key at Halekulani Hotel - Honolulu, Hawaii Edge of Waikiki - Honolulu, Hawaii This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Florida beaches: USA TODAY 10BEST readers declare this one the best
