12 of the best spots for romantic coastal getaways

When it’s cold outside, escape the elements and banish those winter blues in a cosy retreat, just perfect for two. Chrissy Harris selects a few of the best romantic coastal getaways around.

1. Kowetha, Whitsand Bay, Cornwall

A Cornish gem, this contemporary cabin has been designed with couples in mind. You can certainly hide away here and soak up the scenery, as well as the hand-crafted interiors. Plush velvets, blackened steel and reclaimed wooden floors are almost as pretty as the 180-degree view over glorious Whitsand Bay in Cornwall’s slightly quieter south-eastern corner. boutique-retreats.co.uk

2. Middle Deck, Sandgate, Kent

Middle Deck is a well-kitted out apartment in a striking Victorian townhouse, right on the seafront. Expect high ceilings and open plan living, plus a canopied balcony area where you can enjoy a cuppa, overlooking the English Channel. The pub is just 50 yards away and France isn’t too far, either. You could enjoy a day trip before heading back to your 19th century bolthole. classic.co.uk

3. Limehouse Cottage, County Kerry, Ireland

Simple living and raw beauty collide in this sympathetically restored cottage. Old photographs of this once-thatched building date back to the Great Potato Famine when it was razed in a fire. Brought back to life, the cottage was reconstructed with local stone, lime rendered, insulated in hemp and two modern extensions added. On one side is a green iron barn with curved sides to echo the Kerry hills. On the other, a glass add-on offers kaleidoscopic views over Coomasaharn Lake and the mountains. uniquehomestays.com

4. Abbot’s Loft, Falmouth

Places to stay don’t come more waterside than this delightfully characterful cottage sitting on the water’s edge, newly opened after an extensive and sympathetic refurbishment. Housed in one of the oldest buildings in this part of historic Falmouth, inside, the pared-back interiors are a celebration of simple, honest craftsmanship, and materials of local provenance. A fusion of bespoke furniture, reclaimed finishes, Cornish artwork and a plethora of plants combine to make this coastal cottage a year-round destination. And make sure to unlock the secrets of the two hidden rooms which, when discovered lead to somewhere entirely unexpected! cornishholidaycottages.com

5. The Nook, St Minver, Cornwall

Luxurious Scandi interiors and boutique five-star hotel touches make this place feel like a real treat of a retreat. The Nook is set in a quiet corner of rugged Cornish countryside, spectacular whatever the weather and especially nice from the comfort of the sunken hot tub. The stylish decor here will set many hearts a flutter. The bathroom is especially dreamy, with a touch of the industrial look. perfectstays.co.uk

6. Gull Cottage, Slapton, Devon

Gull Cottage is a gorgeous Grade II-listed thatched cottage, down a quiet lane in the picture postcard village of Slapton. Fabulous beaches, walks, food and scenery come as standard. Inside the cottage, soft muted tones and luxury furnishings will make you feel warm and fuzzy even before you get chance to sit by the fire. There’s also a sunny rear garden. toadhallcottages.co.uk

7. The Easternmost Cabin, Southwold, Suffolk

The cosy, comfortable and well-equipped larch-clad cabin is just a two-minute walk from a secluded beach. A panoramic window in the living space looks east over the water, so you don’t have to move too far to watch the amazing sunrises. The garden extends to the end to the cliff edge where a small path leads down to the beach. coolstays.com

8. Boatman’s Loft, Whitby, North Yorkshire

Perched on top of the sea wall on Yorkshire’s wild and rugged coastline, this homely, converted loft space in the former coastguard station makes a perfect escape for two. Robin Hood’s Bay is an historic 17th century fishing village where you can grab your supper when the catch is brought in. nationaltrust.org.uk

9. The Boathouse, Trearddur Bay, Anglesey, North Wales

This reverse-level former boathouse was launched, as it were, in May 2022. Its previous purpose means you couldn’t be closer to the water in here, plus there’s an excellent selection of Blue Flag beaches to explore, right from the doorstep. Cool, calm colours inside match the coastal shades outside, making this place a nautical haven of tranquillity. sykescottages.co.uk

10. Portamaggie Cottage, Portpartick, Dumfries and Galloway

This charming stone cottage was originally the area’s telephone exchange but is now a base for couples to reconnect and take in the incredible scenery. Just 20 yards from the sandy beach and at the base of Killantringan Lighthouse, this rugged, atmospheric spot is a walker and wildlife watcher’s paradise. Porpoises, seals and minke whales are just some of the local visitors. coolstays.com

11. Beach Bay Cottage, Carnish, Uig, Isle of Lewis

Locations don’t get much more secluded than this.  Keep life simple in this natural stone and turf-roofed hillside, built to reflect an ancient neolithic design (with added jacuzzi). The spectacular scenery of the Island of Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides and one of the most beautiful beaches on Scotland’s Atlantic Coast are right outside your window. vrbo.com

12. The Piggery, Trefor, Llyn Peninsula, North Wales

It might not be the most poetic of names but if it’s rustic relaxation you’re after, The Piggery certainly brings home the bacon. The lovingly converted 18th century building is now home to a stylish master bedroom, huge ensuite and log burner. The Piggery is part of Bert’s Farm, a thriving back-to-nature campsite and eco-retreat. Guests can wander from the campsite to the coastline and its private beach in this wonderfully unspoilt part of Wales. bertskg.co.uk

TYING THE KNOT?

You never know, one of these romantic stays could lead to greater things. In which case, it’s best to start planning your big day in advance. What better place to celebrate than beside the sea? Here are some top coastal venues:

Tunnels Beaches, Ilfracombe, Devon

This uniquely designed venue is accessed via a hand carved tunnel through the cliff and has its own private beach. Beautiful scenery with spectacular sunsets will certainly make for some great wedding snaps.

Chateau Rhianfa, Anglesey, North Wales

Weddings don’t come much more fairytale than this. The magnificent architecture of this Grade ll-listed hotel on the banks of the Menai Strait is a real breath taker. Inside, guests will be wowed by the grand splendour of fabulous wood panelled banqueting hall or there’s a more intimate set-up in The Drawing Room.

Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland

Sweeping sea views with the grandeur of a beautiful stately home are a magical combination.  You can go all out and make an entrance into the castle’s King’s Hall or keep it simple with the venue’s ‘just the two of us’ packages.

The Gallivant Hotel, East Sussex

Recently recognised with a Gold Award for Wedding Venue of the Year at the 2022 Beautiful South Awards, this hotel has its own beach house, just a short walk from the dunes of Camber Sands.

Lusty Glaze Beach, Cornwall

Situated in a secluded cove on the outskirts of Newquay, this coastal venue is on its own private beach with spectacular sea views across the Atlantic Ocean. They offer winter weddings with fairy lights, storm lanterns and a blazing fire.

For more romantic getaway ideas, check out our top 10 romantic stays by the sea.