If you are embarking on a late summer holiday here in the UK, there are dozens of stunning beaches you could visit on your travels. There is nothing quite like tasting the salty air as you make your way down the sands, or taking that first breathtaking dip in freezing cold waves!

Whether you are searching for a romantic weekend spot to enjoy with your significant other, or are taking the whole family for a week-long romp in the sun and sand, seaside inspiration can sometimes be hard to find.

Read on to find out five beautiful beaches to visit around the UK before the summer is over.

1. Chesil Beach, Dorset

This 18-mile coastal stretch in Dorset, which also happens to be the namesake of the 2007 Ian McEwan novella On Chesil Beach, serves as more than literary inspiration when you pay a visit.

If you are a fan of windy walks down a pebble coast that seems to stretch on forever, Chesil Beach is the perfect destination for you.

Known for its rugged natural beauty, Chesil Beach is not necessarily the best choice for sunbathing in a quiet, secluded area. If what you require is to sip a mojito on a sun lounger, it might be best to give Chesil a miss.

However, if you need to de-stress and get back in touch with the great outdoors, Chesil is certain to blow your cobwebs away. Plus, no matter where you stand, it provides unbeatable views of the stunning English south coast.

In addition to its beauty, Chesil forms part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, and is visited by hundreds of keen historians and geologists every year.

Chesil Beach welcomes visitors all year round, and can be accessed by car or on foot from nearby villages.

2. Portmuck Harbour, Northern Ireland

If you are taking a trip across the Irish Sea to Northern Ireland, Portmuck Harbour is an unmissable beach destination.

Only an hour drive from the bustling city of Belfast, tucked away in the north-east coast of Northern Ireland, Portmuck Harbour comprises both natural beauty and accessibility. This pebble beach offers glistening blue waters as far as the eye can see, and is complete with picnic tables and local establishments ideal for family visits.

Visitors can paddle-board, swim on calm days, sunbathe, or take a walking tour across the coastline. No matter whether you intend to lie back and relax or lace up your hiking boots, there is something for everyone at Portmuck Harbour.

3. Llanddwyn Beach, Anglesey

One of the most picturesque beaches in the UK can be found on the tiny island of Anglesey, North Wales. Backing onto the Newborough National Nature Reserve, Llanddwyn Beach stretches for miles alongside a beautifully dense pine forest.

At its clifftop peak stands the Tŵr Mawr Lighthouse, with views of Snowdonia across the rolling dunes and crystal-clear bay.

Ideal for families with older children who are up for a few miles of walking on a sunny day, Llanddwyn Beach combines the idyllic vistas of North Wales with welcoming, accessible infrastructure. Responsible dog owners can take their furry friends on-lead between May and September, and off-lead in the autumn and winter months.

4. Formby Beach, Liverpool

Nestled on the north-west coast of England is the revered Formby Beach, known best for its incredible views and rare wildlife.

The town of Formby is steeped in 500 years of English history, and the beach itself has no less diversity or depth to offer. Hugged by a pinewood forest containing rare red squirrels, Formby Beach can be a site of solace, fun, adventure, sports, and relaxation all in one.

If you are searching for a range of activities in one coastal location, Formby is the place to be. Whether you want to run down the beach, bring your dog for a game of fetch, swim in the (rather cold) sea, or even take horses for a gallop, this northern gem makes it all possible.

Plus, Formby can be reached in less than 45 minutes from Liverpool by car, or in around an hour from Manchester.

Formby Beach is free to access and is protected by the National Trust.

5. Coldingham Bay, Scotland

If you are planning a city break to Edinburgh this summer, why not head east and take in all the Scottish coast has to offer?

Located just an hour by car outside of Edinburgh, or 90 minutes by train, Coldingham Bay offers soft sands and mild waves that might be perfect for a young family. Found in an inlet known as Buskin Burn, Coldingham Bay is home to an array of wildlife, including hermit crabs, sparrowhawks, and kestrels.

Stroll for just 10 minutes, and you will find yourself in Coldingham Village. The village is home to local shops, a pub, and plenty of walks and activities for people of all ages. Once you have finished taking in the local scene, you can hop back on the train, and be in Edinburgh in no time!

If you are looking for the ideal beach location for your family this summer, look no further than these five stunning coastal gems that can certainly keep the stressors of everyday life at bay.