To support both visitors and residents who enjoy spending time along Sefton’s Natural Coast, the Council and partners are sharing important information and encouraging visitors to consider which beach is the right fit for them this summer.

Protected environmental site

Sefton’s coastline is a protected nature haven that offers something for everyone. Many visitors may not realise this landscape is legally protected and can be described as “rarer than a rainforest”.

With extensive dune systems, varied rare habitats, and a protected Site of Special Scientific Interest status, the Sefton Coast is more ecologically rare than a typical rainforest. 

Each beach has a unique offering

Cllr Mhairi Doyle, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said: “Now the weather is warming up, we understand many people want to visit our beautiful natural coastline.

“There is so much on offer, and we encourage people to research which beach is the right fit for them.

“Whether you want the bucket and spade experience at Ainsdale, immerse in nature and wildlife watching at Southport, or enjoy the heritage and hospitality offering at Crosby Coastal Park, there’s something for everyone.

“In return, we only ask that visitors follow our collective advice. It’s a small ask with a big payoff in ensuring everyone has fun, stays safe and protects this special place for generations to come.”

Formby beach

In May, National Trust Formby announced the closure of Formby beach car park until spring 2026 due to a major conservation project happening in the Victoria Road area.

People can find out more about the project and impact on their plans to visit by heading to Formby beach car park closure | National Trust Formby

Amy Peacock, National Trust General Manager for Formby and Central Lancashire Properties said: “Our conservation project to remove rubble and restore rare sand dune habitats at Victoria Road is well under way and will continue until spring 2026. During this time, the Victoria Road car park, toilets and beach access through the work site are closed.

“Lifeboat Road car park and toilets remain open, but parking is extremely limited. To avoid being turned away, we advise against driving to us on sunny days this summer. Please consider taking the train to Formby station or visiting other beaches along the Sefton and Wirral Coast.

“This work is part of our long-term commitment to look after this very special part of the Sefton Coast, creating healthier habitats for rare wildlife and a safer, more natural space for everyone to enjoy.

“We understand people will be disappointed to miss out on a trip to Formby this summer, but everyone’s support and understanding is greatly appreciated as we work to enhance this special space for wildlife and people.”

The Council manages Southport, Ainsdale, and Crosby beaches, and all three offer a different experience for visitors.

Crosby beach

With stunning coastal views, golden sands, and the iconic Antony Gormley sculptures, Crosby is the perfect destination to soak up the sun and relax.

It’s also home to many popular food and drink outlets, including The Bus Yard, The Lake House, Honest Coffee, and more.

Those wanting to bring their own food are encouraged to do so if it does not require cooking using a flame or disposable BBQ.

Mark Sopp, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service Group Manager for Community Safety said: “We want the public to respect and enjoy their surroundings safely, please do not light fires or use BBQs, especially disposable ones.

“Fire will spread very quickly and cause severe damage and harm to our coastal area and wildlife. Disposable BBQs buried in the sand on the beach can also cause serious burns to bare feet and paws.

“Between 1st March and 10th April 2025, fire crews responded to 507 incidents involving grass and rubbish fires - a 614.1% increase compared to the same period in 2024.”

Visitors should never enter the water at Crosby beach. It is not a bathing beach due to areas of soft mud and the risk of changing tides. It is the only beach in the country to have 365-day RNLI Lifeguard cover due to the dangers present.

And it’s only a short walk away from two Merseyrail train stations, Waterloo and Blundellsands and Crosby, making public transport the easiest and quickest way to travel.

Michael Buratti, Area Commander for HM Coastguard, said: “Crosby beach is a not a bathing beach with areas of soft sand and mud and a risk of changing tides. Visitors should stay out of the sea and within 50 metres of the promenade at all tides.

“For visitors to designated bathing beaches, it’s important to know that even as we experience warmer weather in summer, the sea can still be chilly and can bring on cold water shock. Please take care before taking a plunge.

“It’s always best to check the wind, weather and tides before entering the sea and observe local safety advice, such as:

• Avoid soft patches of mud on the beach;
• Ensure dogs are on leads;
• Go to a lifeguarded beach where possible;
• Carry a fully-charged mobile phone, so you’re able to call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard if anyone is in trouble.”

Ainsdale beach

Ainsdale beach is known for its rare habitats, prestigious leisure activities, and family-friendly facilities.

There is beach car parking available from April to September, but it’s important to check ahead as there can be closures and reduced capacity from high tides and poor sand conditions.

The newly refurbished toilet block at Ainsdale is available for visitors and includes both men's and women's, and an accessible Changing Places toilet facility. Further information is available at https://www.changing-places.org/find

Baby changing facilities are also within the toilet block, as well as a drinking water station, funded by Sea-Changers.

Chris Cousens, RNLI Water Safety Lead in the North West, said: “Our lifeguards are present at Crosby, Formby, Ainsdale and Southport beaches daily from 10am-6pm through the summer and are there to offer advice on how to stay safe and help anyone who gets into trouble.

“Please look out for safety signage and seek advice on safe places to swim, always keep your children under supervision and avoid swimming alone where possible.

“Coastal areas provide a great opportunity to enjoy fresh air and open space, but they can be an unpredictable environment, particularly during early summer when air temperatures start warming up, but water temperatures remain very cold, increasing the risk of cold-water shock.

“Remember, if you find yourself in difficulty in the water, Float to Live: Lean back, use your arms and legs to keep you afloat, control your breathing, then call for help. In an emergency, people can call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

Southport beach

Sitting on the most northern part of Sefton's beautiful coastline is Southport beach, a nostalgic seaside resort with protected natural landscape.

The beach is home to many thousands of wading birds from their northern breeding grounds and sees flocks of migrating birds that rely on this landscape to feed and rest.

It’s also known as the gateway to the Ribble Estuary and a place where the coast and countryside connect in an amazing way.

Visitors can learn more and find the latest information by heading to www.sefton.gov.uk/beaches and following Sefton Council and our partners on social media platforms Facebook and Instagram.

@Sefton_Council

@NTFormby

@rnli_lifeguards_nw

@mersey_fire

@maritimecoastguard

@merseyrail

@merseysidepolice