What is a seaside resort?

Seaside resorts are coastal settlements that have become a destination for visitors by offering opportunities for pleasure, health and wellbeing.

A seaside resort is a coastal settlement, usually with a beach or harbour, that has developed its cultural, natural and built environment characteristics as a result of becoming a destination for visitors.

Historically, seaside resorts developed from a desire to improve people’s health, wellbeing and opportunities for pleasure. Visitors were attracted by the offer of an experience different to, and better than, that found at home.

Resorts have residential communities too, with inhabitants who appreciate their unique character. They are often interesting, unusual and creative places to live.

No two resorts are the same, and all have embraced different elements of the seaside experience. Many have a wealth of historical and public space features (for example bathing houses, piers, promenades, winter and formal gardens), while others major on their natural landscape and marine environment.