Driving on sand is one of the many thrills off-roaders of all experiences are keen to indulge in. It’s also one of the toughest terrains to drive on. If you’re not so keen on the prospect of getting stuck in the sand dunes that make up the world’s top rated desert trails for 4x4s, taking a trip to the coast and its many beaches could be an option. But, can you actually off-road on the beach?
Can you drive on the beach?
It depends. In the UK for instance, there are only a handful of beaches that you can legally and safely drive on, destinations which have specific, council approved permission. For the remainder, driving any vehicle on the beach is strictly prohibited, with the preservation of wildlife and safety of the pedestrians also using the beach paramount.
Of the beaches that can be driven on, most charge a fee for this privilege. While strict speed limits are also in place to protect beachgoers.
Which UK beaches are vehicle friendly?
Black Rock Sands in North Wales is perhaps the most famous vehicle-friendly beach, not to mention the most beautiful. Its views of the mountains of Snowdonia make this spot picture perfect and the ideal place to enjoy your first beach drive. There is a small charge for driving here and vehicles must not exceed the 10mph speed limit.
To the south, you’ll find Pendine Sands in Carmarthenshire, a location that has a long and colourful history of motor racing. It is important to note that driving restrictions are currently in place with only certain sections of the beach able to be driven on. Benone Strand in Northern Ireland, Ainsdale and Southport beaches in Lancashire, and Brean Beach in Somerset also welcome motorists in varying capacities.
Where can you really off-road beachside?
There are many restrictions preventing beach driving in the UK. Rules are however a little more lax elsewhere. There are beach drives aplenty in the off-roading paradise that is Australia. Here Unsealed 4×4 shares just one of its favourite locations for 4x4s:
“Did you think for a second that we could talk about Australia’s best 4X4 beach drives and not include Fraser Island? The world’s largest sand island is one of the premier 4X4 destinations for good reason. With over 100 freshwater lakes, countless lengths of drivable beaches, plenty of shipwrecks to explore, and fantastic fishing, it’s easy to see why. There’s no excuse for you not to put Fraser Island on your list.”
Sandy Cape, Rainbow Beach, Moreton Island, Stockton Beach, Robe Beach Run and Bruny Island are other vehicle-friendly destinations where the very best 4×4 beach drives can be enjoyed.
Are you ready for your 4×4 beach adventure?
Whether you choose to go slow and steady on a UK beach where vehicles are permitted or take a trip a little further afield to do 4×4 beach driving properly, you’ll need to be prepared. Explore our full range of upgrades and accessories to get started.