Nothing says a fresh start like a relocation to the seaside. The UK has over 11,000 miles of coastline, and historically, people have been seeking rejuvenation from coastal towns since the 18th century. Did you know women were sent for seaside stays to cure nervous dispositions?
Blue health is no myth. Seaside living reduces anxiety and depression, improves physical health, and lengthens sleep. Ready to tap into those health benefits? Find new homes in these best seaside towns to access your fresh start.
Southsea, Hampshire
First on the list is Southsea, a coastal town in Hampshire — a county renowned for its beautiful countryside and inspiring English history. Southsea itself has a 16th-century castle, gravel beach, and stunning seafront.
Turning a new leaf often means taking up hobbies. In Southsea, water sports and horse riding are possible forms of weekend entertainment.
St Ives, Cornwall
Cornwall isn’t just for summer holidays. St Ives is the perfect seaside town to start afresh; it’s surrounded by beautiful beaches, is family-friendly, slower-paced, and has a thriving creative arts scene.
Buyers should bring their sharpest purchasing powers — St Ives property is in demand. In 2024, developers achieved approval for new properties, so watch this space. However, savvy shopping will be worthwhile. St Ives offers an inherently therapeutic bubble for a more relaxed lifestyle by the coast.
Whitstable, Kent
Whitstable is a gorgeous coastal town with a reputation for tasty oysters. What more could you want? The main shopping street is a charming picture of independent stores with jumbled architecture and overhanging windows.
It’s a great choice of county; just an hour from London, it’s even possible for hybrid workers to relocate. In fact, Kent was named as 2025’s best place to retire in the UK, with experts citing its coastal lifestyle and great transport connections.
Salcombe, Devon
Salcombe is a picturesque choice of UK seaside towns. There’s been a recent influx in waterfront and spacious new builds, highlighting the town as a premium option for those looking to relocate to the coast.
With a strong sailing community, buyers will have endless weekend entertainment on the water. Salcombe is an optimal retirement destination, too; perhaps you’ll be scheduling mid-week swims.
Tenby, Pembrokeshire
If Wales is on your radar, Tenby could be worth considering. The Pembrokeshire seaside town frequently ranks amongst the best places to live in the UK. The assortment of colourful buildings jut up around a walled beach and harbour. Unsurprisingly, given its good looks, it attracts a major tourist crowd; there’s strong potential for holiday lets.
Compared to other destinations in Southern England, the walled town has affordable property prices — as of 2025, budget approximately £385,000 for a four-bed terrace.
The beautiful UK coastline is full of fresh starts; which of these five seaside towns most catches your eye?