Hotels in Southend-on-Sea

Discover the Coastal Charm: Southend-on-Sea's Enchanted Shores and Lush Retreats

Nestled along the scenic Essex coastline, Southend-on-Sea is a delightful blend of beach charm and vibrant culture. Famous for its iconic pier—the longest in the world—visitors can enjoy stunning seaside views and thrilling amusement rides at Adventure Island. Stroll the picturesque seafront, relax in lush gardens, or explore the quaint shops and eateries. With its sandy beaches and family-friendly atmosphere, Southend offers a perfect escape for sun-seekers and adventure lovers alike. Whether you're savoring fish and chips by the shore or enjoying a leisurely boat ride, Southend-on-Sea promises unforgettable seaside memories.

Discover great hotels in Southend-on-Sea

Southend-on-Sea offers a variety of accommodations, from charming boutique hotels to comfortable chains. Many options provide scenic sea views, modern amenities, and easy access to local attractions. Whether you're looking for a cozy room or a family-friendly stay, you'll find suitable hotels to enhance your seaside experience. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Southend-on-Sea:

1. Muthu Westcliff Hotel Opens in a new window: This inviting 3.0-star hotel is perfect for adventure seekers looking to immerse themselves in a beach vacation experience. With direct access to the beach, it offers a wide range of exhilarating activities such as hiking, surfing, kayaking, and sailing, all available onsite or nearby. Travelers appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the unique opportunity to enjoy outdoor sports, making it an ideal choice for those who thrive on adventure and exploration.
2. Malvern Lodge Guest HouseOpens in a new window: Offering a charming guesthouse experience, Malvern Lodge Guest House stands out as a 3.0-star lodging option that enhances comfort with entertaining amenities. Guests can relax and enjoy various entertainment options including flat-screen televisions and satellite channels. This hotel caters to leisure travelers who appreciate a cozy ambiance filled with engaging activities, making it a delightful retreat for those looking to unwind and experience the local culture.
3. Devine Beach HotelOpens in a new window: Highlighting a cozy guesthouse experience, Devine Beach Hotel is a 3.0-star property that provides delightful dining options, including breakfast for children. The accommodation features entertainment amenities such as digital and traditional television, ensuring guests remain entertained throughout their stay. With proximity to scenic ocean views and local attractions, this hotel attracts leisure travelers seeking a tranquil getaway, filled with charm and accessibility to vibrant entertainment districts.

Top locations to stay in Southend-on-Sea

Some great areas to stay in when visiting Southend-on-Sea are Sheerness, Basildon, and Westcliff-on-Sea. Sheerness offers budget-friendly options, while Basildon is known for its friendly atmosphere. Westcliff-on-Sea boasts stunning seafront views and easy access to Southend's attractions. For first-time visitors, Westcliff-on-Sea is the best choice for its proximity to the vibrant Southend seafront.

1. Westcliff-on-SeaOpens in a new window: This charming coastal area is a fantastic place to stay for those looking to enjoy scenic seaside views and a relaxed atmosphere. Westcliff-on-Sea is known for its beautiful beaches, perfect for sunbathing and leisurely walks. You'll find a vibrant cultural scene here, with theaters hosting various performances and events. Plus, with plenty of parks and gardens, it's an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The close proximity to Southend-on-Sea means you're just a short distance from even more attractions, including the iconic pier and amusement parks.
2. BasildonOpens in a new window: If you're seeking a friendly place with a strong community vibe, Basildon is a great choice. This town features a variety of shopping options, from high street brands to local boutiques, making it a shopper's delight. You can also explore beautiful parks and enjoy various cultural attractions, including art galleries and theaters. Basildon's convenient transport links mean you can easily venture into nearby cities, offering a balance of suburban comfort and urban excitement.
3. SheernessOpens in a new window: For a unique experience, Sheerness provides a budget-friendly option with a distinct maritime charm. This town offers lovely coastal walks and a quieter pace of life, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. You can explore local shops and markets, which give you a taste of the local culture. While smaller than the other areas, Sheerness is a lovely base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty and seaside charm.

Things to do in Southend-on-Sea

Southend-on-Sea is a delightful coastal escape, where sandy beaches meet lush gardens and scenic waterfronts. Enjoy boating on the sparkling waters or tee off at lush golf courses. With charming parks and tranquil forests nearby, it’s an inviting spot for relaxation and outdoor fun. Don't miss the iconic pier that stretches out to sea!

• Historic Dockyard ChathamOpens in a new window – Step back in time at the Historic Dockyard Chatham, a fascinating maritime museum where you can explore the rich naval history of England. Wander through historic ships and exhibits that tell the story of the Royal Navy's evolution. It’s a great spot for learning while enjoying the scenic waterfront.
• Rochester CastleOpens in a new window – Visit the impressive Rochester Castle, a stunning medieval fortress that boasts remarkable views of the River Medway. Climb to the top of the tower for a bird’s-eye perspective of the area and delve into the castle’s intriguing history through informative displays.
• DiggerlandOpens in a new window – For a day filled with fun and excitement, head to Diggerland, an amusement park designed for both kids and adults. Get behind the controls of real construction machinery and tackle various rides and attractions that promise a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else.
• Gillingham Business ParkOpens in a new window – Enjoy a leisurely stroll or a picnic at Gillingham Business Park, an urban park that provides a relaxing environment amid bustling city life. Take in the greenery and unwind as you soak up the fresh air.
• Festival Leisure ParkOpens in a new window – Dive into entertainment at Festival Leisure Park, a vibrant tourist precinct filled with restaurants, cinemas, and fun activities. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a movie night, this lively spot has something to satisfy everyone’s tastes.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Southend-on-Sea

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Southend-on-Sea is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices are lower. For a great value for money experience, plan to stay for at least 2 to 3 days to fully enjoy the area's key landmarks and cultural sites. During your visit, you can explore the beautiful beach, enjoy the friendly atmosphere, wander through the lovely gardens, and take part in various adventures such as boating or golfing. With its scenic islands and forests, Southend-on-Sea offers plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in its history and culture while sticking to your budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Southend-on-Sea, start by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and unique last-minute promotions, which could help you save. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you have the best options at your fingertips. By staying updated, you're more likely to seize opportunities for a spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay at a hotel in Southend-on-Sea. If you're in search of something distinctive, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and might offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll suggest more affordable dates to help you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be pricier, but thanks to Southend-on-Sea's great public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel located a bit farther out that remains well-connected. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby cities, you can often find excellent value for your money. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more genuine and budget-friendly experience.
5. Become a Member: Join now for free and start planning your next getaway to Southend-on-Sea! As a member, you'll unlock exclusive savings on over 100,000 hotels worldwide, with special member prices just for you. Plus, enjoy the benefits of tier progression, which can lead to exciting perks like complimentary room upgrades when available and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don’t miss out on these amazing benefits—sign up today and make your next stay unforgettable!

Best time to go to Southend-on-Sea

Southend-on-Sea experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 41.4°F (5.2°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 64.2°F (17.9°C). October tends to be the wettest months.The peak travel months to visit Southend-on-Sea are April, July, and August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by no to light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.