9 Best Essex Coastal Towns to Live or Visit

Welcome to our guide to the best Essex coastal towns, offering some of England’s most charming seaside spots.

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly coastal retreat, a quiet town to settle down, or an easy commute to London, Essex’s coastline provides something special for everyone.

Essex’s coastal towns boast captivating history, scenic beaches, and vibrant communities, making them ideal for visitors and new residents alike.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top 9 Essex coastal towns, highlighting what makes each one special.

1. Canvey Island

Canvey Island has long been cherished as a seaside destination, gaining popularity during the Victorian era for its charming beaches and welcoming atmosphere.

Today, Canvey Island combines the traditional British seaside vibe with a close-knit community, making it an ideal destination for families or those seeking a quieter life within easy reach of London.

With over 30 highly rated schools in the area, including Castle View School, families will find a wealth of educational options.

Explore local heritage at the Canvey Island Transport Museum, enjoy leisurely beach walks, or relish the relaxed pace of coastal living.

For more information about living in Canvey Island, visit Visit Canvey.

2. Chalkwell

Tucked between Westcliff-on-Sea and Leigh-on-Sea, Chalkwell is an understated suburban gem perfect for those seeking tranquillity by the sea.

Its beautiful beach, Chalkwell Beach, is less commercialised than neighbouring towns, offering peace and relaxation for residents and visitors alike.

Nearby Chalkwell Park hosts the annual Village Green music festival, attracting visitors from across the region.

With London just a 50-minute commute away via Chalkwell railway station, this location suits commuters seeking coastal serenity without sacrificing convenience.

Check local property listings at Rightmove.

3. Southend-on-Sea

Arguably Essex’s most famous coastal town, Southend-on-Sea is an iconic British seaside destination famed for its vibrant atmosphere and spectacular pier—the longest pleasure pier in the world at 1.34 miles!

Southend provides a classic seaside experience with amusement arcades, traditional cafés, and the exciting Adventure Island theme park.

Residents enjoy excellent amenities, including cultural venues such as the Focal Point Gallery, and have easy access to frequent trains to London.

For an extensive guide, visit our dedicated page about living in Southend-on-Sea.

4. Mersea Island

Renowned for its delicious seafood and beautiful coastal scenery, Mersea Island is an idyllic seaside retreat.

The UK’s most easterly inhabited island offers serene beaches and a peaceful village lifestyle.

West Mersea’s pastel-coloured beach huts line Victoria Esplanade, creating a picturesque backdrop for strolls and days by the sea.

With no railway station on the island, a car or the regular ferry service to Brightlingsea is essential for commuting and exploring further afield.

Discover local events at Visit Mersea.

5. Clacton-on-Sea

A quintessential British seaside town, Clacton-on-Sea remains one of Essex’s most vibrant coastal communities.

Its bustling pier, amusement arcades, and sandy beaches attract visitors year-round.

Famous historically for the 1964 Mods and Rockers clash, Clacton offers a unique blend of tradition and excitement.

Community events, including the annual Clacton Airshow, keep residents entertained throughout the year.

Read more about life in Clacton-on-Sea in our detailed area guide.

6. Brightlingsea

Located near Colchester, Brightlingsea has a rich maritime history dating back to Roman times.

Known for its Blue Flag beach, colourful beach huts, and a thriving sailing community, this charming coastal town attracts both holidaymakers and permanent residents.

Brightlingsea Harbour offers year-round sailing access, making it an ideal destination for boating enthusiasts.

The friendly community and affordable housing market also make this an attractive destination.

Visit Discover Brightlingsea for community news and events.

7. Leigh-on-Sea

Voted one of Britain’s happiest places to live, Leigh-on-Sea is a delightful mix of old-world charm and modern conveniences. Its sandy beach, cobbled streets, and historic fishermen’s cottages make it a picturesque setting.

Nearby Two Tree Island offers tranquil nature walks, while the bustling Broadway high street provides independent shops, cafés, and restaurants.

Direct rail services from Leigh-on-Sea railway station to London Fenchurch Street add to the town’s commuter appeal.

Find out more at Leigh-on-Sea’s official page.

8. Walton-on-the-Naze

Famous for its fossil-rich beaches and historic Naze Tower, Walton-on-the-Naze is an attractive family-friendly resort on Essex’s coastline.

Visitors and locals enjoy activities like sailing, kayaking, and wildlife watching at the Essex Wildlife Trust reserve.

Surrounded by the sea on three sides, Walton’s vibrant atmosphere and natural beauty attract nature lovers and families alike.

For more information, please visit Visit Essex.

9. Frinton-on-Sea

Known for its immaculate beaches and genteel atmosphere, Frinton-on-Sea offers a quieter pace of life ideal for retirees and young families.

Its population of around 5,000 creates an intimate community feel.

Popular activities include strolls along the promenade, golf, and exploring local boutiques and cafés.

Frinton’s beautiful mid-century properties attract younger residents from London, ensuring a dynamic and evolving community.

Learn more from the official Frinton Residents’ Association.

FAQ: Choosing the Best Essex Coastal Town for You

When selecting a coastal town, consider:

• Best schools: Canvey Island and Leigh-on-Sea offer highly-rated educational options.
• The best commutes to London include Southend-on-Sea, Leigh-on-Sea, and Chalkwell, which have excellent rail connections to the capital.
• Property affordability: Brightlingsea and Clacton-on-Sea often offer better value for money.

Each Essex coastal town offers something unique; choose one that best aligns with your lifestyle and needs.

Ready to Move to an Essex Coastal Town?

Thinking about moving to one of Essex’s stunning coastal towns?

At GoodMove, we specialise in making your relocation seamless and stress-free. With decades of experience in removals across Suffolk, Norfolk, and Essex, our friendly team offers expert assistance, whether you’re moving locally or long-distance.

We also offer flexible storage solutions, allowing you to settle into your new home at your own pace.

Get your free, no-obligation quote today by calling us directly or using our online quote form.

Experience stress-free removals with GoodMove—your trusted partner for moving to the beautiful Essex coast.