Calshot beach has been highlighted as a stay-at-home option in comparison to Spiaggia di Talamone over in Italy.
It comes as holidaycottages.co.uk has explored some of the world’s most popular beach destinations and suggested ideal UK alternatives.
This way, you can soak up the seaside atmosphere and unwind without having to even board a plane (and skip any airport chaos).
@laurellaw76 Beautiful Calshot ❤️ #relax #sea #beach #summer #uk ♬ Into The Light – Brand X Music
Shannon Keary, digital PR manager at holidaycottages.co.uk said: “For many people, summer brings the temptation of a beach holiday; however, travel enthusiasts don’t have to travel internationally to experience crystal-clear waters and beautiful sandy beaches hidden between towering cliffs as there are many comparable spots in the UK.”
Why is a Hampshire beach being compared to a Tuscany hotspot?
As mentioned previously, the historical side to Calshot beach was mentioned as one aspect, alongside its penchant for watersports.
Holidaycottages.co.uk said: “These two beaches both offer historical charm and activities for watersports lovers.
“Calshot’s historic coastal fort is similar to the medieval fortifications of Spiaggia di Talamone, while both beaches are popular for their windsurfing and paddleboarding.”
Overall, Calshot beach forms part of a mile-long shingle spit which reaches out into the mouth of Southampton Water.
@paulineavery0123 #beachday #girlsday #sunshine #calshot #summer ♬ Feels Like Summer – Samuel Jack
The Beach Guide adds: “From here you get a great view of the ships coming and going from one of the UK’s largest ports.
“The beach also offers panoramic views of the Solent, Southampton and the Isle of Wight so it is little wonder the beach is the site of a 16th century castle.
“Built in 1539 by Henry VIII, Calshot Castle is one of number of similar forts built to defend the south coast from the French and Spanish.”
It is also home to the Calshot Activities Centre which offers a range of activities including windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing and climbing.
Best Beaches in the UK
What do visitors think of Calshot beach?
Calshot beach has been mostly well-received by visitors, earning a 3.9/5 score on Tripadvisor from 113 reviews.
One person wrote: “Gorgeous beach, activity centre with huge rock climbing wall. Little cafe with different food and drink options. So many boats to see, beautiful scenery and walk.”
Another said: “We came on the weekend and it was relatively busy due to the nice weather. There’s ample parking space available which is pay and display.
“In addition to the ice cream van which is always there. It’s a stoney beach which is sand further down when the tide is out. The beach and surrounding area was really clean too.”
A third shared: “Most of the reviews here seem to the about the activity centre and its cafe and not Calshot Beach.
Recommended reading:
“Amazing views. Lots of things to watch. Nicely painted beach huts. Car parks with toilets. Free parking if blue badge holder. Will be coming here in future instead of going to Lepe.”
Some people praised the beach’s all-encompassing nature, as one wrote: “Not too much sand to be enjoyed but it felt secluded (at times) apart from the wind and wash from the multitude of big ships tooing/froing from Southampton Docks.
“Beach is dog friendly and felt like there was enough room for bathers, water sport enthusiasts and our four legged friends.”
