Still wondering what to do in Clacton-On-Sea? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Clacton-On-Sea and book your hotel today!
Clacton-on-Sea, a quintessential British seaside resort on the Essex Sunshine Coast, is the perfect destination for fun, fresh air, and traditional coastal charm. It’s a place where the air hums with the joy of a classic family holiday. The main attraction is the historic Clacton Pier, which proudly extends out into the North Sea. The pier is a hub of activity, packed with arcades, funfair rides, bowling, and adventure golf, offering something for all ages.
The town boasts lovely beaches like West Beach and Martello Bay, offering gently shelving sand for a perfect day by the water. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the seafront promenade, catch a show at the Princes or West Cliff Theatres, or simply enjoy the atmosphere of a bustling but welcoming resort. Clacton-on-Sea is ready for you to enjoy a classic, cheerful coastal escape.
When booking your hotel in Clacton-on-Sea, choosing a location close to the seafront is the best way to ensure easy access to all the traditional seaside attractions. The town is largely linear, following the line of the coast, which simplifies navigation.
The area surrounding the Clacton Pier and the main Promenade is the undisputed centre of the resort. Staying here means you are steps away from the beaches, the arcades, the funfair, and the majority of the town’s restaurants and entertainment venues. This is the most vibrant and action-packed part of Clacton.
For a slightly quieter experience, consider hotels located a little further west towards Martello Bay or east towards Holland-on-Sea. These areas offer a more residential and peaceful atmosphere, while still providing easy access to the main attractions via a short walk along the scenic promenade or a quick local bus ride. They are ideal if you want a relaxing retreat but still want the option of dipping into the bustle of the pier.
Clacton-on-Sea is well-served by a central railway station, Clacton-on-Sea Station, which connects to London Liverpool Street. The station is conveniently located just a short walk from the main pier and seafront hotels. Local buses also run frequently along the coast and inland, making it easy to reach neighbouring areas and sights like the Jaywick Martello Tower. With the main points of interest so close to the station, finding a centrally located hotel allows you to easily enjoy the resort without needing to rely on a car.
To find the best hotel deals in Clacton-on-Sea, it is crucial to avoid the peak season, which runs from July to August, as this is when the coastal resort is at its busiest and prices are at their highest. A key unique event to avoid for maximum savings is the Clacton Airshow, which typically takes place in August and draws huge crowds, drastically increasing local accommodation costs.
For significantly better value, plan your trip for the low season between November and March. While it will be colder, you will see a considerable drop in hotel rates and enjoy peaceful seaside walks. The shoulder seasons of April to June and September to October are a great balance, with milder weather and still-reasonable prices. Look for mid-week stays, as like most UK seaside resorts, weekend prices increase substantially due to short-break visitors.