Best Seaside Holidays in Sussex

Seeking sumptuous seaside glamour? You’ll find exactly that at Rox - dubbed by Wellies and Windbreaks as “without doubt one of the finest holiday rentals on the Wittering beach front”.

While those who drive to the ever-popular West Wittering Beach are encouraged to pre-book their parking especially during the busy summer months, you’ll have easy access to the beach from the lavish five-bedroom beachfront property. With plush interiors and spectacular views of the sea from nearly every room, plus a newly built private beach deck and garden, Rox offers relaxation and luxury in equal measures. Sleeps 12.

Continue the indulgent theme by sampling the great food on offer at East Wittering’s Rosario’s. Just a 13-minute walk from Rox, the Mediterranean tapas and wine bar - whilst modest from outside – is guaranteed to delight, with great food, generous portions and rave reviews.

Offering a unique glimpse into history, the newly furnished Grade II listed Pirates Point is situated on the beachfront of Selsey.  This 18th century two-bedroom holiday cottage boasts unrivalled access to both the beach and the bustling town of Selsey where you’ll find a host of independent shops, cafés and pubs.

Pick up fresh seafood direct from the fishing hut at Julies, sample the delights on offer at the Village Bakery or follow Selsey’s Seal Art Trail. Everything you’ll find along the way is family friendly and perfect for all ages.  

Back at Pirates Point you’ll find a small enclosed garden, large kitchen area, cosy sitting room, and outside shower room for washing off the sea and sand from your days out. Families with young children will have it all. Sleeps 4.

Whether you’re holidaying with family or a group of friends, you’ll find luxury in abounds at Curlews. Located right on Selsey’s shore, allowing you easy access to Selsey’s beaches, Selsey Bill and the world-class Selsey crab, this eco-friendly home with an upside-down layout offers an exquisite setting for your holiday with breath-taking sea views and every possible need catered for.  

This luxurious property accommodates eight people across four sumptuous king-sized bedrooms, each with its own private terrace and views across the sea or garden. You’ll also find a spacious open-plan living room with incredible views, a kitchen with an amply stocked pantry and Lacanche range, elegant dining area, studio and a variety of beautifully designed outside eating and drinking spaces.  

As if that’s not enough, Curlews also has its own library with a secret bathroom hidden behind one of the bookshelves, home to the best view from the house.   

Whether you plan to hit the waters of Chichester Harbour for some sailing or watersports, explore its miles of footpaths or just relax in these picturesque surroundings, Canute Cottages is an ideal base.

Four single-storey converted barn cottages offer one or two bedrooms, accommodating up to four guests. You'll be able to make yourselves at home in the open plan living areas, in the courtyard and gardens, as well as being able to launch dinghies, kayaks, or paddleboards from the private slipway.

Guests with accessibility needs will find parking available, as well as level access and a wheel-in wet room (Granary Cottage). The coastal path from here is also wheelchair accessible, so you can explore the abundant wildlife.

The Beach House B&B, located in the heart of West Wittering Village, is one of the closest B&Bs to West Wittering Beach, with a 15-minute scenic walk to the shores. You’ll have unrivalled access to both the beach and 2XS; the water sports tuition and rental company based there. The National Trust site of East Head is located at the tip of West Wittering Beach too, meaning you’ll have miles of beach to explore. 

At the B&B itself, you’ll find seven individually styled rooms designed to help you both relax as much as possible during your stay, with comfortable beds, quality linen and a freshly cooked breakfast every morning. Dog friendly rooms are available for couples with a four-legged friend.  

If it’s the water more than beach that floats your boat, check out the quintessentially beautiful Millstream Hotel in Bosham, also part of Chichester Harbour AONB. Here, you’ll find a traditional British retreat set within its own gardens, and home to the Sea School Restaurant where talented chefs prepare delicious modern British cuisine.

Located just a five-minute walk from the charming quayside, families can enjoy a wealth of activities here. Take to the water by kayak or paddleboard, jump on the Itchenor Ferry to explore another of Chichester Harbour’s waterside villages, spot unique wildlife with Chichester Harbour Water Tours, take local walks and cycles, or simply explore the pebble shores close by. If you do want to take it easy for a minute or two, head to The Anchor Bleu for impressive harbourside views.

Offering a truly unique stay, Crouchers - a boutique hotel overlooking Chichester Harbour AONB - combines relaxation and comfort with a touch of luxury. As would be expected from a hotel overlooking an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you’ll have walks with unrivalled and ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. There are three cottage available for families who want to kick back in a home from home, perfect for a staycation by the sea.

The hotel is conveniently located with a 15 minute walk to Dell Quay, where you’ll find the Dell Quay Sailing Club, The Crown and Anchor pub as well as the beginning of many other walks exploring the harbour. You’re also just a 15 minute walk from Birdham, another of the pretty waterside villages within Chichester Harbour AONB.

If you’re planning on holidaying in Sussex with friends, this is the campsite for you.

Gees Camp Site is located just three-minutes by foot from the family-friendly East Wittering Beach. Here, you’ll find shelving shingle, grass covered dunes, bumpy waves and expansive sand flats as the tide goes out. Whether its sandcastles or surfing that’s attracting your group to the beach, there’s plenty to keep you there all day. Especially with local gems including Calamity’s and Witts End Café just a stone’s throw from the beach.

While the site doesn’t cater for tents; caravans, campervans and motorhomes are all welcome, with shower blocks and electric hook up available.

Last but not least, and also located within walking distance from East Wittering Beach, is Stubcroft Farm Campsite.

Environmentally conscious families will love every minute of their holiday at this award-winning, eco-friendly site. Many of the facilities at the site have been carefully designed to ensure minimal to no impact on the environment you’re holidaying in.

Being surrounded by a wealth of wildlife (including over 72 species of bird, deer, hedgehogs, foxes, rabbits and rare butterflies), a short walk from the quiet lanes of Chichester Harbour, and just 25-minute by foot from the beach and Drift-In Surf Café, you’ll have all you need.

Seeking great value for all the family? Seal Bay Resort offers something for all ages and budgets. What’s more, it’s located right on West Sands Beach in Selsey. The wide pebble beach offers buckets of entertainment and is the perfect location for seaside strolls at any time of the day.

At Seal Bay you’ll find a range of camping and glamping accommodation to choose from including standard pitches, luxury lodges and beach pads, ideal for those who rely on creature comforts. As if the beach doesn’t offer enough entertainment, you’ll also find a host of restaurants, bars and evening entertainment on site, as well as a huge range of facilities and activities including a pool, gym, spa, wave rider, bowling and crazy golf.

Tucked away in the picturesque seaside village of West Wittering, The Wittering offers more than just a place to stay - it's a charming coastal retreat just minutes from one of the UK’s most celebrated Blue Flag beaches.

This beautifully restored free house with rooms has been thoughtfully reimagined to provide a welcoming escape for beach lovers, walkers and those simply seeking a tranquil break by the sea. Upstairs, you'll find three newly decorated bedroom suites and a stylish, self-contained two-bedroom apartment - perfect for families or groups looking for a bit more space.

Tucked away on the edge of Pagham Harbour, Crab & Lobster is more than just a renowned dining destination — it’s a sanctuary for those in search of a romantic or relaxing escape on the Sussex coast.

For those who love a room with a view, the deluxe rooms are a must. These light-filled spaces look out over open fields and the shimmering waters of Pagham Harbour. And to make the most of the scenery, each deluxe room comes with its own pair of binoculars — perfect for birdwatching, sea-gazing, or simply soaking in the coastal magic from the comfort of your room.

Travelling with family or prefer your own space? The self-catering cottage next door is purpose-built for comfort and style. This charming two-bedroom retreat combines the warmth of traditional Sussex architecture with the convenience of modern living. A fully equipped kitchen makes it easy to settle in and cook at your leisure — though with the main inn’s full English breakfast served just steps away, you may find yourself happily tempted back next door.