Boating at Brancaster Staithe © Norfolk Tourism

Coastal Activities

There are activities galore to enjoy during your stay on the Norfolk coast. From birdwatching at one the coastal reserves to windsurfing off the stunning beaches, there is something for all ages and abilities. And Norfolk is not just a summer holiday destination - come and take a break here at any time of the year. In the quieter months of the year, walk along the Norfolk Coastal Path then settle down in a cosy country pub for a warming meal or take a boat trip out to sea and watch the seals playing in the water. Whatever the time of year you visit, we promise you won't be disappointed.

Jump to: Birdwatching // Sea Fishing // Water Sports // Horseriding // Walking // Cycling

Birdwatching

Norfolk is simply excellent for birdwatching since it has some of the best nature reserves in the UK. The wonderful diversity of the coastal landscape, from the silt expanses of the Wash in the west through the coastal marshes, soft cliffs and hinterland of north Norfolk, make it a haven for numerous species of birds. Snettisham, an RSPB reserve considered to be the most important wildlife estuary in the UK, is situated in The Wash. It has a variable habitat which encourages high numbers of important species to rest here including knots and pink footed geese.

Cley Marshes, made up of reedbeds, salt, fresh water and grazing marsh combine to attract seasonal visitors. In the spring the reserve sees Spotted Redshank and Warblers, while summer brings in breeding Avocets and also the incredibly rare Bittern. For those just getting into this pastime there is a visitor centre with plenty of information and willing volunteers to answer any questions. RSPB Titchwell Marsh is great for all year round birdwatching for all levels. There are numerous hides where you can see harriers hovering over reedbeds and in winter, Brent Geese flocking into the reserve. Blakeney Point and Brancaster Staithe are also great places for birdwatching.

Find out more on our Birdwatching & Wildlife page

Fishing at Gorleston - Gone Fishing © Rädar / John Wray - http://www.flickr.com/photos/radar666/

Sea Fishing

Mile upon mile of coastline makes Norfolk popular for sea fishing. There are a wide variety of shops selling bait and tackle allowing you to stock up before heading to one of the coastal resorts. Cast off from Cromer Pier where there are plentiful stocks of bass and, at certain times of the year, cod and mackerel. The east beach in Overstrand is a good location for those fishing for dab, flounder and sole, while Cley, Mundesley, Sheringham and Weybourne are all suitable for sea fishing.

Find out more about fishing in Norfolk

Windsurfing in West Norfolk - © Norfolk Tourism

Water & beach sports

Whether you prefer to be in or on the water, there is a great selection of water sports to suit all tastes. For experienced sailors, the harbour at Brancaster Staithe is a great place to take to the sea, particularly during the months of May and June. The town has a sailing school where beginners can start to learn the ropes while more experienced sailors can brush up on their existing skills and learn new techniques. The sailing school also has dinghies, kayaks and canoes for hire.

Wells-next-the-Sea is also good for sailing and even better for windsurfing. Lessons are available for individuals, groups and families so come and try something new on your holiday. And after you've mastered the basics experience some of the other great locations for windsurfing including Gorleston and Brancaster. If you've got a wetsuit and surfboard don't forget to bring these! The Norfolk coast is fast becoming popular with surfers and they'll all tell you there's nothing like ‘catching a wave'. East Runton and Cromer are the best spots with deep swells and good waves. That wetsuit will also come in handy for jet-skiing, another popular activity enjoyed on the Norfolk coast at many places including Sea Palling and Gorleston.

Or try your hand at kitesurfing on an empty beach - just you, your board and the wind. Each year Hunstanton hosts the Lifestyles Extreme Sports & Culture Festival, where you can show off your moves, and see demonstrations of windsurfing, kitesurfing, skate/bmx and parkour.

Find out more about boating & sailing in Norfolk

Horseriding

If you prefer four legs to four wheels then what better way to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Norfolk coast than on horseback. The Peddars Way, which runs from Holme-next-the-Sea, has special tracks for horse riders and also accommodation available should you wish to spend your short break exploring the trail. For inexperienced or novice riders there are lessons and short courses available with fully qualified instructors who can guide you through the basics. Also make sure you take time to visit the Hillside Shire Horse Sanctuary at West Runton, where you can see a fantastic collection of horse breeds and displays.

Find out more about horseriding in Norfolk

Walking

To really make the most of the outstanding coastal scenery walking has to be the one of the nicest and greenest options! Take your time exploring the area on foot, absorbing the views and breathing in the fresh Norfolk air, and with over 90 miles of walking trails to follow you can walk as little or as much as your legs can manage. The two main walking routes are the Peddars Way and the Norfolk Coast Path, both of which are suitable for all from the gentle stroller to the more serious rambler. There are short and circular routes available or if you'd prefer to spend your holiday walking the trails there are buses which can drop you off and pick you up at various points and lots of accommodation choices on route. The paths run through many of the lovely seaside towns and villages while also passing many of the historic houses and museums.

Find out more about walking in Norfolk

Cycling

Cycling is a wonderful way of getting round the Norfolk coast and is a great way of working off some of that lovely Norfolk food you'll have enjoyed! Bikes can be hired all over the coast for either a morning or afternoon, for your entire short break or holiday. There are plenty of routes to choose from including the Norfolk Coast Cycle Way which runs from King's Lynn to Great Yarmouth; Quiet Lanes, a triangular route from Cromer to Bacton along the coast and then inland; the more challenging Peddars Way, the woodlands of Kelling Heath and many more.