Suffolk's coast offers a spectrum: from refined cultural hubs and shingle sculpture beaches to quiet dune hamlets and working waterfronts. Use this guide to compare character, highlights and planning tips so you can build effortless day trips or a multi-stop coastal weekend.
Elegant pier, pastel beach huts & Adnams heritage
Southwold blends refined seaside charm with a working brewery culture. The pier's kinetic water clock, lighthouse views and the promenade of iconic huts make it one of Suffolk's most photographed coastal towns.
Distance from Ipswich: Approx 47 miles NE
Shingle shore, arts heritage & fresh fish huts
A cultural coastal town famous for its shingle beach, Benjamin Britten legacy and daily-caught fish sold right on the shore. The sculpture 'Scallop' sits north of town, celebrating Britten's music.
Distance from Ipswich: Approx 30 miles NE
Edwardian resort meets Europe's busiest container port
A long promenade, restored seafront gardens and a growing café scene contrast with the dramatic deep-water port activity further north. Good for classic family seaside days and ship spotting.
Distance from Ipswich: Approx 12 miles SE
Laid-back dunes & famous crabbing spots across the Blyth
A softer, quieter alternative to Southwold across the river. Timber footbridge/ferry access, marshland walks and relaxed village greens. Popular for families trying hand-line crabbing from jetties.
Distance from Ipswich: Approx 44 miles NE
Quirky mock-Tudor fantasy village with boating Meare
Originally developed as a private holiday retreat, Thorpeness mixes storybook architecture with a shallow boating lake inspired by Peter Pan. Shingle beach, House in the Clouds and windmill complete the scene.
Distance from Ipswich: Approx 31 miles NE
Lost medieval port now reclaimed by sea & heath
Once a major medieval hub, most of Dunwich now lies beneath the waves due to centuries of coastal erosion. Today: a quiet beach, cliff-top views, heathland, forest trails and poignant history boards.
Distance from Ipswich: Approx 38 miles NE
A popular pairing is Aldeburgh → Thorpeness via the coastal path (or short drive) for art, fish, then whimsical architecture. Another is Southwold ↔ Walberswick using the seasonal foot ferry or bridge for contrasting atmospheres in a single afternoon. History fans can blend Felixstowe & Landguard Fort with a late light stroll at Old Felixstowe Ferry watching pilot boats and container traffic.
Always respect local signage, nesting areas and private property. Support independent businesses to keep Suffolk's coast distinctive.