Brean Sands is part of a 6½ mile long sandy beach reaching from Brean Down at the northern end to Burnham-on-Sea. The beach is of fine sand at the top, backed by dunes and looks out towards the island of Steep Holm, about 4½ miles offshore. The lower part of the beach is deep mud, and signs warn against venturing too far down the beach. Swimming is only allowed for approximately 2 hours either side of high tide - at other times a red flag is flown. The sea here is a consistent muddy brown colour, and very uninviting.
Behind the dunes is the coast road, with frequent paths across the dunes to the beach. There are numerous camp sites and other holiday parks here. Parking is allowed on the sand, with the gates to the beach open between 09.00 and 20.00 during summer. Vehicles must adhere to a 15 mph speed limit. Motor cycles and learner drivers are not allowed. Lifeguards patrol from the end of June until early September. Facilities include toilets, drinking water and usually burger and ice-cream vans. Dogs are allowed at all times, but must be kept under control.
The headland of Brean Down is 320 feet high and has good views in all directions.
