Three Shells (Southend) Beach

The Blue Flag award-winning Three Shells beach is a family favourite in Southend. The “Lagoon” means it’s possible to swim even if the tide is out and the beach is sandy. It’s just a couple of hundred metres away from Southend-on-Sea’s Adventure Island, which is the location for most of the town’s theme park rides. 

There’s a good choice of food nearby, at a range of prices, with pleasant outdoor seating areas and clean toilets. 

The beach is set in what you could describe as an alcove, which gives it a somewhat sheltered / cosy feel. It can however, get very busy on summer days, especially during the school holidays. 

This sandy beach is on the main stretch to the west of Southend pier. There is parking on the sea front road close by, meaning it can get very busy during peak season. 

The lagoon is especially good for younger family members and there’s also a kids’ play area near the lagoon. 

Deck chairs are available for hire and there’s a shower facility nearby. 

Disabled toilets are available. 

With the exception of guide dogs, which are allowed all year round, canine companions are allowed on the beach from 1 October to 30 April

The Three Shells is the most central beach in Southend, with easy access to amusements, cafes, shops, the Pier, and Adventure Island, the location for most of the amusement park style rides in the town.