Summits with Sea Views & Summit Vibes
Looking for hikes that pair a great climb with epic sea views? Coastal peaks deliver rugged summits, maritime panoramas, and dramatic geology—all without leaving the coastline. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, ocean breezes, or just a change of scenery, these UK peaks offer the perfect blend of hill and sea air.
1. Stac Pollaidh – Assynt, Northwest Scotland
- Height: ~612 m
- Distance & Time: ~4–5 km circular / 3–4 hrs
- Start Point: Car park near Loch Lurgainn, off the A835
- Route Type: Short scramble to summit ridge
- Why It’s Great: Distinctive Torridonian sandstone ridge with panoramic views across the Minch to Summer Isles
- Top Tip: Stick to the eastern summit for a gentler scramble; the western end is exposed and technical
2. Carn Llidi – Pembrokeshire, Wales
- Height: ~181 m
- Distance & Time: ~6 km loop / 2–3 hrs
- Start Point: Whitesands Bay car park
- Route Type: Coastal hill loop with short ascent
- Why It’s Great: Rocky summit over Whitesands Bay with views to Ramsey Island and, in summer, even Ireland
- Top Tip: Visit at sunset for spectacular coastal light—and check out the Neolithic burial chambers nearby
3. Great Hangman – Exmoor, England
- Height: 318 m
- Distance & Time: ~8 km loop / 3–4 hrs
- Start Point: Combe Martin or South West Coast Path access
- Route Type: Coastal cliff ascent
- Why It’s Great: England’s highest sea cliff with sweeping views over Combe Martin Bay and Lundy Island
- Top Tip: The Coast Path is dramatic—expect some scrambling to reach the summit proper
4. Yr Eifl (The Rivals) – Llŷn Peninsula, Wales
- Height: 564 m
- Distance & Time: ~7 km circular / 3–4 hrs
- Start Point: Common car park near Trearddur Bay
- Route Type: Coastal ridge with multiple summits
- Why It’s Great: Three distinct peaks with views across Cardigan Bay to Snowdonia—and sea on both sides
- Top Tip: Fabulous at sunrise or sunset; parking fills fast on weekends
5. Beinn Bhreac – Isle of Arran, Scotland
- Height: ~569 m
- Distance & Time: ~10 km / 4–5 hrs
- Start Point: Near Lochranza ferry terminal
- Route Type: Coastal ridge ascent with forest approach
- Why It’s Great: Offers sweeping island and sea views, often bypassed for Arran’s higher peaks
- Top Tip: Combine with a boat trip; Arran’s ferries and summits make a perfect day out
6. Carn Llidi – alternative vantage
Since we’ve already featured Carn Llidi, consider its alternative loop from St David’s Head—adds variety and classic coastline drama
7. (Bonus) Roseberry Topping – North Yorkshire
- Height: 320 m
- Distance & Time: 5 km loop / 1.5–2 hrs
- Start Point: Car park on A173 near Great Ayton
- Route Type: Steep inland summit with sea view on clear days
- Why It’s Great: Iconic Yorkshire hill with distinctive shape and panorama over Cleveland coast
- Top Tip: Not strictly coastal—the summit is inland—but offers glimpses of sea when skies are clear
Final Thoughts
Coastal peaks bring a unique twist to peak bagging: shorter climbs, big skies, and that unmistakable sea spray in the air. They’re ideal for when you’re short on daylight, after scenic variety, or chasing camera-perfect views.
Photo by Jacqueline Heron Wray on Unsplash
