Discover the most popular places to visit in Southend-on-Sea
Adventure Island
8.4/10 (126 reviews)
Adventure Island offers over 40 thrilling rides including Rage, a roller coaster with a dramatic 97-degree drop. Explore the grounds for free and only pay for the attractions you choose to experience.
Southend Pier
8.6/10 (220 reviews)
Stretching 1.34 miles into the Thames Estuary, Southend Pier holds the title of world's longest pleasure pier. Take the charming pier train to the head for panoramic sea views and visit the RNLI Lifeboat Station.
Photo by Ruttapong Sarapoj
Open Photo by Ruttapong Sarapoj
Thorpe Bay Beach
8.0/10 (27 reviews)
Escape the bustle at Thorpe Bay Beach, where pristine Blue Flag shores meet charming beach huts. Enjoy sailing in the tranquil waters or savor seaside dining with panoramic Thames Estuary views.
Photo by Ruttapong Sarapoj
Open Photo by Ruttapong Sarapoj
Southend Beach
8.2/10 (47 reviews)
Stroll along Southend's seven miles of coastline, home to the world's longest pleasure pier. Enjoy traditional seaside charm with sandy beaches, seafood stalls, and the Adventure Island theme park nearby.
Shoebury East Beach
8.2/10 (46 reviews)
Shoebury East Beach offers a spacious sandy shoreline with a grassy picnic area along the estuary. Water sports enthusiasts flock here for premier kitesurfing and windsurfing conditions in designated safety zones.
Leigh Heritage Centre
7.2/10 (7 reviews)
You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Leigh Heritage Centre in Southend-on-Sea. Wander the seaside and beautiful beaches in the area.
Southend-on-Sea City Hall
7.4/10 (18 reviews)
After visiting Southend-on-Sea City Hall, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Southend-on-Sea. Stroll along the area's seaside, or simply savor its top-notch restaurants.
Three Shells Beach
8.0/10 (15 reviews)
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Three Shells Beach during your trip to Southend-on-Sea? Wander the seaside and beautiful beaches in the area.
"I stay two nights
It’s was very good trip
And the hotel was very nice and clean I chose family room I thought it’s small
But when I opened the room it’s was very big very nice
Even they put coffee table with two chairs
Even my children have a good space
On the Room
Plus the hotel smell very very nice
All the time if I go there I will choose this hotel
Thank you very much for your nicely with us"
"It was a lovely stay with a beach view. The staff were so friendly and accommodating and the full english breakfast was really tasty. I had a great nights sleep too! Everyone here was also welcoming. Thank you"
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
How much does a Southend-on-Sea vacation package cost?
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Southend-on-Sea break. However, factors like the length of stay, hotel choice and season will determine how much your vacation to Southend-on-Sea costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Southend-on-Sea?
If you'd like to score a cheap Southend-on-Sea vacation package, consider traveling in January, February and March. You'll usually find better prices on hotels and airfares during these quieter months — perfect for a budget-friendly getaway.
How many days is enough for Southend-on-Sea?
Typically, a handful of days is great for a Southend-on-Sea vacation. With a well-planned itinerary, you can check out all the main attractions such as Southend Beach, as well as explore some hidden treasures along the way.
Is it worth booking a vacation package to Southend-on-Sea?
Whether you're looking to check out major attractions like Thorpe Bay Beach and Southend Beach on your Southend-on-Sea vacation, or coming for its great views, nature and family-friendly attractions, there's something for everyone here. With so much to experience, you'll soon learn why so many travelers think Southend-on-Sea is a good vacation destination.
How to find the best Southend-on-Sea package deals?
Use Expedia's filter tool to help you find some fabulous Southend-on-Sea package deals. When you begin your search, simply set your maximum budget and then sort the results by "Price: low to high." If you're looking to save, plan your trip for midweek, or browse for Southend-on-Sea package deals in the low season. Play around with your travel dates and you may land even bigger discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's typically best to book your vacation package well in advance.
Is it cheaper to book a Southend-on-Sea vacation as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your next Southend-on-Sea break by booking a customized vacation package. Check the "Package" heading, then enter your travel dates and destination to browse some great hotel and flight prices. Bundling can save travelers hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a rental car and you may score a better deal.
When to book a vacation package to Southend-on-Sea?
If you're planning an impromptu Southend-on-Sea getaway, browse our last-minute deals that can be booked up to a week before you take off. Don't want to leave things to the last minute? You can find sensational deals on your flights and hotels by booking ahead.
How to plan a trip to Southend-on-Sea?
Choose the best time to travel: Your schedule, preferred season and the type of weather you enjoy can all impact your decision on when to go to Southend-on-Sea.
Work out your budget: Make sure you have enough money to cover everything from meals and transportation to flights and activities. Your hotel will probably be the largest expense during your trip to Southend-on-Sea.
Decide how long to go for: Now that you're up to speed on Southend-on-Sea, you can work out the right length of your vacation. Pull together a rough itinerary and allocate enough time to cover everything you want to see.
Combine your flights and hotel: Awesome destination, check. Length of stay, check. All that's left is to pick a Southend-on-Sea vacation package that brings all your bookings together.
For a delightful shopping experience in Southend-on-Sea, visit the Battlesbridge Antiques and Craft Centre for unique finds. If you're up for a drive, explore Eastgate Shopping Centre for a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment, or head to Nucleus Arts Rochester for artistic treasures.
Recreation
Discover Southchurch Park for a serene escape amidst lush greenery, perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics. For a fun twist, head to Lost City Adventure Golf, where you can enjoy a challenging round of golf in an exciting outdoor setting. For entertainment, catch a show at Central Theatre, offering a mix of culture and romance.
Adventure
At Monkey Bizz, 20.9km from Southend-on-Sea, enjoy an exhilarating arcade experience filled with games for all ages. Explore the Estuary Bicycle Trail, 4.8km away, for a scenic outdoor cycling adventure. For thrill-seekers, Rayleigh Indoor Karting Stadium, 8.0km distant, offers high-speed excitement on the track.
Nightlife
Southend-on-Sea boasts a vibrant nightlife with a mix of lively pubs and stylish bars. Visit The Olde Trout for traditional ales and a friendly atmosphere, or head to The Alex for stunning sea views and live music, creating a perfect evening by the coast.
Find the best attractions in and around Southend-on-Sea
Southend-on-Sea, a delightful seaside resort, is perfect for family and outdoor-themed holidays. Visitors can enjoy stunning sea views along the seafront, explore attractions like Southend Pier, and indulge in the local culture at nearby castles and nature reserves. With its vibrant beach atmosphere and various entertainment options, Southend-on-Sea promises an enjoyable getaway for all types of travellers seeking relaxation and adventure.
Adventure Island: Experience thrills galore at Adventure Island, a vibrant theme park nestled in Southend-on-Sea. With a variety of rides and attractions, it offers a perfect day out for families, filled with laughter and excitement amidst a lively atmosphere.
Southend Pier: Southend Pier, the longest pleasure pier in the world, invites you to stroll along its expansive length. Engage with friendly locals and enjoy an adventurous vibe as you soak in stunning views of the coastline and indulge in seaside treats.
Southend Cliff Gardens: Just 966m from the seafront, Southend Cliff Gardens is an urban oasis. Perfect for families, it features beautifully landscaped gardens, picturesque pathways, and a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Best time to go to Southend-on-Sea
The best time to visit Southend-on-Sea is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Southend-on-Sea
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Southend-on-Sea.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January to March) for more affordable package holidays to Southend-on-Sea.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.