Looking for the best UK beach festivals that combine live music, coastal views and a relaxed summer vibe? Skip the muddy fields and head for the sand with our guide to top seaside music festivals in the UK. From Cornwall to the North East, discover where to enjoy incredible performances with your toes in the sand.
Whether you love indie anthems, pop icons or beachside wellness activities, these music festivals by the sea offer something for everyone. Here are some of the UK’s best coastal festivals and where to stay nearby.
Tunes in the Dunes, Cornwall
Held annually in early summer on Perranporth Beach
Tunes in the Dunes is one of Cornwall’s most unique music events, set directly on the golden sands of Perranporth Beach. What sets this festival apart is its laid-back atmosphere, where flip-flops and sun hats are the norm and dancing in the sand is encouraged. It blends big-name music acts with stunning coastal scenery, creating a feel-good festival experience that’s truly beachside.
Line-up highlights
Past performers include chart-topping artists like Busted, Pixie Lott and Scouting for Girls. From pop and indie to reggae and acoustic sets, the festival caters to a wide range of tastes. All performances take place just metres from the ocean, with incredible sunset views creating the perfect festival backdrop.
Where to stay near Perranporth
For a comfortable base just minutes away, stay at Holywell Bay Holiday Park. Enjoy great touring and camping facilities, glamping pods or fully equipped caravans – perfect for relaxing after a day on the beach.
Tunes in the Dunes highlights. Video by Joshua Timmins
Mouth of the Tyne Festival, Tynemouth
Every July at Tynemouth Longsands and Priory
The Mouth of the Tyne Festival is a coastal celebration of music, heritage and community spirit. Set in the charming seaside town of Tynemouth in North East England, it takes full advantage of its dramatic setting near Tynemouth Castle and Priory, with panoramic views over Longsands Beach. This family-friendly event offers a mix of live music, local food, street performances and cultural attractions.
Who’s performed
Over the years, the festival has hosted big-name acts like Paloma Faith, James Arthur, Jack Savoretti and Beverley Knight. There’s a relaxed, community-driven vibe throughout the weekend, with plenty of smaller stages, roaming entertainers and activities for all ages.
Stay close to the action
Just a 10-minute drive away, Whitley Bay Holiday Park is the perfect spot to relax after a fun day at the festival, with comfortable accommodation and coastal charm.
Image © David Dixon via cc-by-sa/2.0
Boardmasters, Newquay
Every August at Fistral Beach and Watergate Bay
Boardmasters is the UK’s ultimate surf and music festival, bringing together world-class waves, cutting-edge music and a chilled Cornish vibe. Held across two stunning beach locations—Fistral Beach and Watergate Bay—this five-day event is as much about lifestyle as it is about line-ups.
What to expect
The festival draws major acts across rock, indie, pop and electronic genres. Past headliners include The Chemical Brothers, George Ezra, Florence + The Machine and Catfish and the Bottlemen. Away from the stages, attendees can enjoy surf competitions, yoga sessions, skateboarding displays, coastal hikes and eco-awareness zones, making it ideal for active and conscious festivalgoers.
Nearby places to stay
Make your festival trip even better by staying at Newquay, Crantock Beach or Holywell Bay Holiday Parks. All are a short drive to the main event venues and offer everything you need for a seaside break.
Boardmasters Festival highlights. Video courtesy of Boardmasters Festival
Ready to book your next beach festival adventure? Whether you're into surfing, singing or just soaking up the summer sun, these UK beach festivals are sure to hit the right note. Let us know which one you’ll be heading to on our Facebook page.