Did you know there is over 90 miles of coastline in Norfolk? Yet many of us are creatures of habit, returning time and again to the same stretches of beach we know and love. However, there are hidden corners and quiet shores you’re missing out on!

Exploring more of the coast isn’t just a chance to find a new favourite spot. By spreading out and visiting different locations, we can all help reduce pressure on the busiest beaches, making our coast a better experience for everyone and helping to protect it for years to come.

The benefits?

Choosing to explore somewhere new has benefits for both people and nature.

A less crowded beach means more space to relax, walk, paddle and enjoy the coast at your own pace. You may even discover a quieter spot that becomes your new go-to!

For nature, it can make a real difference. Popular sites often contain fragile habitats such as sand dunes, saltmarshes and nesting areas for wildlife. When visitors are spread more evenly along the coast, these sensitive places have a better chance to recover and thrive, giving wildlife the space it needs.

Spreading visits across the coastline can also help reduce congestion in busy hotspots. Fewer traffic queues and less pressure on car parks can improve air quality for both people and wildlife, making it healthier for all living things!

There are benefits for local communities too. Norfolk’s coastline is home to fantastic cafés, pubs, shops and attractions. Exploring different parts of the coast helps support a wider range of local businesses, ensuring more communities benefit from tourism.

Ready to explore?

Looking for ways to discover somewhere new? Here are three tips to spread out and explore more of our coast.

1. Know before you go

The Norfolk Coast Path National Trail runs the whole way along our coastline, linking beaches, villages and stunning viewpoints. Use a map to discover places you’ve never visited before and plan your next adventure. You can even explore the route online using Komoot for inspiration.

2. Timing is everything

We aren’t asking you to not visit your favourite spots, but one thing you can think about is timing. Can you go at quieter times? Visiting in the early morning, later in the evening and on weekdays all helps take the pressure off busy spots, plus it is more peaceful and enjoyable for you!

3. Give yourself a challenge to explore

Make a promise to visit a different beach each visit, or if you really want to geek out, compile a spreadsheet of every beach, and tick them off as you go, share with your friends to build the awareness, or just to compete on who’s been to the most spots.

Next time you make a plan to visit, why not discover more of our coastline? Find out more about caring for our coast here.