Discover the most popular places to visit in Southend-on-Sea
Adventure Island
8.4/10 (126 reviews)
Adventure Island offers over 40 thrilling rides including Rage, a roller coaster with a dramatic 97-degree drop. Explore the grounds for free and only pay for the attractions you choose to experience.
Southend Pier
8.6/10 (220 reviews)
Stretching 1.34 miles into the Thames Estuary, Southend Pier holds the title of world's longest pleasure pier. Take the charming pier train to the head for panoramic sea views and visit the RNLI Lifeboat Station.
Photo by Ruttapong Sarapoj
Open Photo by Ruttapong Sarapoj
Thorpe Bay Beach
8.0/10 (27 reviews)
Escape the bustle at Thorpe Bay Beach, where pristine Blue Flag shores meet charming beach huts. Enjoy sailing in the tranquil waters or savour seaside dining with panoramic Thames Estuary views.
Photo by Ruttapong Sarapoj
Open Photo by Ruttapong Sarapoj
Southend Beach
8.2/10 (47 reviews)
Stroll along Southend's seven miles of coastline, home to the world's longest pleasure pier. Enjoy traditional seaside charm with sandy beaches, seafood stalls, and the Adventure Island theme park nearby.
Shoebury East Beach
8.2/10 (46 reviews)
Shoebury East Beach offers a spacious sandy shoreline with a grassy picnic area along the estuary. Water sports enthusiasts flock here for premier kitesurfing and windsurfing conditions in designated safety zones.
Leigh Heritage Centre
7.2/10 (7 reviews)
You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Leigh Heritage Centre during your trip to Southend-on-Sea. Wander the seaside and beautiful beaches in the area.
Three Shells Beach
8.0/10 (15 reviews)
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Three Shells Beach during your trip to Southend-on-Sea? Wander the seaside and beautiful beaches in the area.
Southend-on-Sea City Hall
7.4/10 (18 reviews)
After visiting Southend-on-Sea City Hall, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Southend-on-Sea. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.
"Very clean and spacious roo.s, beautiful well-maintained building, close to the beach, staff very helpfull and always available, the Air Conditioner was not funcioning but we had a fan in the room. The best choice to spend the time on holiday or sray near the sea, definetly will recommend it and visit again."
"Clean and really spacious bathroom. Bedroom had good facilities including air conditioning. Location is really close to the pier and Adventure island"
"Very convenient and clean (although slight damp smell throughout) and staff were lovely! This is a pretty basic hotel though - room large with comfy bed but warm - and if you don't have a room in the hotel itself you are nowhere near the sea - wasn't a problem for us. It's a very busy locals pub though which we were good with but not a tranquil seaside stay. And parking is tricky as need to top up at the off-site carpark at 8am each day. Good breakfast tho!"
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
How much does a Southend-on-Sea holiday package cost?
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Southend-on-Sea break. However, factors like the length of stay, hotel choice and season will determine how much your holiday to Southend-on-Sea costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Southend-on-Sea?
If you'd like to score a cheap Southend-on-Sea holiday package, consider travelling in January, February and March. You'll usually find better prices on hotels and airfares during these quieter months — perfect for a budget-friendly getaway.
How many days is enough for Southend-on-Sea?
Typically, a handful of days is great for a Southend-on-Sea holiday. With a well-planned itinerary, you can check out all the main attractions such as Southend Beach, as well as explore some hidden treasures along the way.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Southend-on-Sea?
Whether you're looking to check out major attractions like Thorpe Bay Beach and Southend Beach on your Southend-on-Sea holiday, or coming for its great views, nature and family-friendly attractions, there's something for everyone here. With so much to experience, you'll soon learn why so many travellers think Southend-on-Sea is a good holiday destination.
How to find the best Southend-on-Sea package deals?
Use Expedia's filter tool to help you find some fabulous Southend-on-Sea package deals. When you begin your search, simply set your maximum budget and then sort the results by "Price: low to high." If you're looking to save, plan your trip for midweek, or browse for Southend-on-Sea package deals in the low season. Play around with your travel dates and you may land even bigger discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's typically best to book your holiday package well in advance.
Is it cheaper to book a Southend-on-Sea holiday as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your next Southend-on-Sea break by booking a customised holiday package. Check the "Package" heading, then enter your travel dates and destination to browse some great hotel and flight prices. Bundling can save travellers hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a rental car and you may score a better deal.
When to book a holiday package to Southend-on-Sea?
If you're planning an impromptu Southend-on-Sea getaway, browse our last-minute deals that can be booked up to a week before you take off. Don't want to leave things to the last minute? You can find sensational deals on your flights and hotels by booking ahead.
How to plan a trip to Southend-on-Sea?
Choose the best time to travel: Your schedule, preferred season and the type of weather you enjoy can all impact your decision on when to go to Southend-on-Sea.
Work out your budget: Make sure you have enough money to cover everything from meals and transportation to flights and activities. Your hotel will probably be the largest expense during your trip to Southend-on-Sea.
Decide how long to go for: Now that you're up to speed on Southend-on-Sea, you can work out the right length of your holiday. Pull together a rough itinerary and allocate enough time to cover everything you want to see.
Combine your flights and hotel: Awesome destination, check. Length of stay, check. All that's left is to pick a Southend-on-Sea holiday package that brings all your bookings together.
For a delightful shopping experience in Southend-on-Sea, visit Battlesbridge Antiques and Craft Centre, where unique gifts await. If you're up for a drive, Eastgate Shopping Centre offers a variety of shops and entertainment just over 16.1km away, while Nucleus Arts Rochester features local arts and crafts about 22.5km away.
Recreation
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Cliffs Pavilion, where romance and culture come alive through captivating performances. For a breath of fresh air, unwind at Southchurch Park, offering serene landscapes perfect for relaxation. If you're a sports enthusiast, cheer at Roots Hall Stadium and revel in the excitement of local matches.
Adventure
Experience the thrill at Monkey Bizz, an exciting arcade adventure zone located 20.9km from Southend-on-Sea, perfect for family fun. Cycle the scenic Estuary Bicycle Trail, situated 4.8km away, or race at Rayleigh Indoor Karting Stadium, 8.0km from Southend, for an adrenaline-pumping day out.
Nightlife
Southend-on-Sea offers a vibrant nightlife with its lively seafront bars and clubs. Head to the bustling High Street for pubs and restaurants, and don’t miss the iconic Cliffs Pavilion for live performances. The lively atmosphere ensures a memorable night filled with music and entertainment.
Find the best attractions in Southend-on-Sea
Southend-on-Sea is an ideal destination for families seeking outdoor entertainment and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore its beautiful beaches, nature reserves, and historic castles. Key attractions include the iconic Southend Pier, perfect for leisurely strolls and stunning views. With a variety of activities that cater to all ages, Southend-on-Sea promises a delightful getaway for anyone looking to enjoy the charm of the British seaside.
Adventure Island: This vibrant theme park offers a plethora of thrilling rides and attractions suitable for all ages, ensuring a fun-filled day for families and thrill-seekers alike. With its lively atmosphere, games, and entertainment options, Adventure Island is the perfect spot to create unforgettable memories.
Thorpe Bay Beach: Renowned for its serene beauty, Thorpe Bay Beach boasts golden sands and gentle waves, making it an ideal location for sunbathing, swimming, and beachside picnics. The laid-back vibe invites relaxation and leisurely strolls along the shoreline.
Southchurch Hall: A fascinating glimpse into history, Southchurch Hall showcases stunning architecture and picturesque gardens. This medieval house offers cultural insights and guided tours, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the region's rich heritage.
Best time to go to Southend-on-Sea
The best time to visit Southend-on-Sea can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Southend-on-Sea falls in August, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Southend-on-Sea falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Southend-on-Sea
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Southend-on-Sea.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January to March) for more affordable package holidays to Southend-on-Sea.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.