Hotels in Southend-on-Sea

Southend-on-Sea: Where Coastal Serenity Meets Nature's Embrace

Southend-on-Sea, a vibrant coastal gem in Essex, beckons with its golden beaches and lively seafront. Home to the UK's longest pier, it offers stunning views and a delightful stroll, while Adventure Island provides thrills for families. Explore the tranquil gardens of Southend, or indulge in fresh seafood at charming eateries. With a blend of seaside fun and cultural treasures, including the historic Kursaal and vibrant art scene, Southend-on-Sea is perfect for a romantic getaway or a family adventure. Embrace the charm of this bustling resort where the sea meets unforgettable experiences.

Top locations to stay in Southend-on-Sea

When visiting Southend-on-Sea, consider staying in Sheerness, Basildon, or Westcliff-on-Sea. Sheerness offers budget-friendly options and a charming seaside atmosphere, while Basildon is known for its friendly community and vibrant shopping scene. Westcliff-on-Sea boasts stunning coastal views and a relaxed vibe. For first-time visitors, Westcliff-on-Sea is the most appealing choice, providing easy access to the beach and local attractions.

1. Westcliff-on-SeaOpens in a new window: Westcliff-on-Sea is a charming coastal town that boasts stunning views of the Thames Estuary. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a seaside atmosphere, with lovely beaches and a vibrant promenade. You’ll find a variety of cultural attractions, including theatres and art galleries, showcasing local talent. The area is also known for its friendly pubs and cafés, making it a great spot for relaxation after a day of exploring. With easy access to Southend’s main attractions, Westcliff-on-Sea offers a delightful blend of tranquillity and entertainment.
2. BasildonOpens in a new window: If you’re looking for a friendly place to stay, Basildon is an excellent choice. This town features a range of shopping options, from modern shopping centres to local markets, catering to all your retail needs. With plenty of parks and green spaces, it’s ideal for those who love the outdoors. Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the local theatres and community events, providing a taste of the vibrant local scene. Basildon’s convenient transport links make it easy to explore nearby towns and attractions.
3. SheernessOpens in a new window: Sheerness offers a budget-friendly coastal escape, perfect for families and those looking to unwind. The town features a lovely beach and a picturesque marina, ideal for leisurely walks and enjoying the fresh sea air. You can explore quaint shops and local markets, giving you a taste of the local community. The nearby attractions include historical sites and nature reserves, making it a great base for outdoor adventures. Sheerness is a hidden gem for those seeking a relaxed atmosphere by the sea.

Things to do in Southend-on-Sea

Southend-on-Sea boasts stunning beaches and lush gardens, offering a delightful escape for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy leisurely boating on shimmering waters, unwind with a round of golf amidst scenic landscapes, or explore tranquil forests and charming parks. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation by the sea.

• Gillingham Business ParkOpens in a new window – Discover Gillingham Business Park, a vibrant urban park that offers the perfect blend of nature and relaxation. Take a leisurely stroll through its green spaces, where you can enjoy the serene beauty of gardens and the refreshing presence of trees. The park is an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring, with its peaceful atmosphere inviting you to sit back and recharge. You could even grab a coffee at a nearby café and enjoy the surroundings. The park's proximity to the sea also allows for a lovely coastal breeze, enhancing your experience as you connect with nature in a truly inviting environment.
• Shoebury East BeachOpens in a new window – Head to Shoebury East Beach, a stunning stretch of coastline where you can bask in the sun, dip your toes in the water, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore. This beach is perfect for families and friends looking to spend a day by the sea. With its golden sands and picturesque views, it’s an ideal spot for picnics, beach games, or just soaking up the seaside atmosphere. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for local wildlife and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze as you unwind in this beautiful coastal setting.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Southend-on-Sea

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Southend-on-Sea is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For those on a budget, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the area's key historical landmarks and cultural attractions. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the beach, explore lovely gardens, take part in exciting adventures, and even indulge in some golfing. With friendly locals and opportunities for boating around the nearby islands and forests, Southend-on-Sea offers great value for money for those seeking a memorable getaway.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals to Southend-on-Sea, you may start by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you're likely to find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales or special promotions, which could help you save. Moreover, the Smart Shopping feature on the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you make informed choices. With these tools, you could be among the first to know if prices drop or rooms become available for your spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay in a Southend-on-Sea hotel. For those seeking something distinctive, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised experience and potentially better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we may suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you to secure the best deal possible.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre generally tend to be pricier, but with Southend-on-Sea's superb public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less congested neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative locations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Southend-on-Sea

Southend-on-Sea experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 41.4°F (5.2°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 64.2°F (17.9°C). October tends to be the wettest months.The peak travel months to visit Southend-on-Sea are April, July, and August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by no to light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.