Bruce Johnston, a six-decade member of the Beach Boys’ live band, announced he will step away from the group.
The 82-year-old Johnston told Rolling Stone that “It’s time for part three of my lengthy musical career! I can write songs forever and wait until you hear what’s coming! As my major talent beyond singing is songwriting, now is the time to get serious again.”
The Beach Boys’ Mike Love also said in a statement that “Bruce Johnston is one of the greatest songwriters, vocalists, and keyboardists of our time. We’ve had the honor of his performance and participation for many many years with the Beach Boys. Change is always promised in life; today we find ourselves in a chapter of change, but not an end.”
Johnston originally joined the group in 1965, filling in as a live vocalist in place of frontman Brian Wilson, and earning a vocal credit on “California Girls.” He left the band in 1972 to pursue solo work, and penned Barry Manilow’s hit “I Write The Songs.”
Johnston returned to the Beach Boys in 1978, and continued to tour as the only member besides Love from the band’s original era. He also wrote several songs for the group, including “Disney Girls (1957),” “Deirdre” and “Tears in the Morning.” Johnston will be replaced by Chris Cron, vocalist for the Beach Boys tribute band Pet Sounds Live.
After Wilson’s death last year, Beach Boys fans still have several occasions to hear the catalog live. Love’s long-running edition of the Beach Boys will play three nights at the Hollywood Bowl over July 4 weekend (which Johnston said he’ll sit in on). Founding member Al Jardine is touring with Brian Wilson’s former backing ensemble, now called the Pet Sounds Band, with a set focused on the1977 LP “The Beach Boys Love You.”
Sue and Noel Radford, best known for starring on 22 Kids & Counting, have made it to the Canary Islands after they faced backlash for complaining that their Dubai holiday had originally been cancelled
20:22, 07 Mar 2026Updated 20:22, 07 Mar 2026
Sue Radford has made it to Dubai(Image: Instagram)
Sue and Noel Radford have arrived in a beach resort amid backlash. The 22 Kids & Counting star, 50, and her husband managed to get to the Canary Islands, after previously complaining that their Dubai holiday had been cancelled.
Last week, war broke out in the Middle East as Israel and the USA struck Israel, which killed its leader, Ali Khamenei. Iran then retaliated by striking military bases and various places across the Middle East including Tehran, Beirut and the UAE, including missile strikes and drones in Dubai. The strikes have lead to mass flight cancellations as the Foreign Office advised against all but essential travel to the UAE.
She captioned the post: “”The sun is shining we are all checked in and looking forward to a few days in the sun loving the Canary Islands we’ve not been for years.”
Sue was due to go to Dubai but has understandably cancelled her trip given what is going on. However, she has left her fans fuming by saying she was having a “nightmare” with the travel company they used as she tries to get a refund.
Taking to Instagram, she wrote: “As you know Chris and Aimee both got us weekends away for Christmas but as we couldn’t do the dates we swapped it to Dubai we were going to be flying tonight. Anyway hands up who’s been having a nightmare with travelup1 because I think there’s going to be lots of you.
“Phone lines dead so guessing they have turned them off and no response from them to emails i have commented on their insta page but all of our comments have been deleted and there been lots from very unhappy customers.
“I know we are safe in this country but even if you wanted to rebook you can’t because they aren’t dealing with it, so anyone who’s booked with this company think twice PLEASE.”
Editing her post later on, Sue said the company had been in touch. She added: “Travelup have messaged on insta so for others in the same situation it might be worth doing the same.
“The point of this post is that we do not want to rebook I would imagine lots wouldn’t but this company switching phones off is not the way to go about it so people can’t contact them at all and deleting comments is bad.”
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Despite her insisting it was all resolved now, angry fans took to social media to fume over her original post. One branded it “tone deaf”, writing: “This is tone deaf. People are dying. Others are hiding in hotel rooms/basements. And the rest are stranded with many fearing for their lives. Your holiday dues not matter right now.
“Your refund/swap is not the priority. You should have travel insurance and be Atol/Abta protected – you’ll get your money. For now just sit tight and be thankful you’re not one of the people I just listed above.”
Another added: “Love you guys and this family so much, watch their shows every week and you’re all so lovely…. But please can we be kind to companies who are dealing with a war. This isn’t a day to day situation. I know we all want to rebook flights, I want to get some sun !! and get on our holidays, but why don’t we let the dust settle and give people a time to breathe and take stock of what’s actually going on, especially since the situation is escalating by the day.”
“I wouldn’t normally comment but I’m not being funny but face palming and talking about a weekend away when thousands of people are stuck in the Middle East either as ex pats or holiday makers/ on cruises etc. I think the travel agents have a little bit on their plates currently with a war occurring,” a third wrote.
“I like this family… but maybe think of those who are actually stuck over there instead of hounding travel companies. They will have a ridiculous amount to deal with, not just your holiday which im sure in due course will be sorted out for you,” a fourth penned.
The village is home to one of the country’s finest beaches, boasts a cosy pub with unrivalled views, and has a historically important site nearby – a must-visit destination in England.
Breathtaking views and pristine beaches – what’s not to love?(Image: Chris Griffiths via Getty Images)
Encircled by crystal-clear waters and striking views stretching endlessly into the distance, Cornwall overflows with magnificent sights. Among them is a small coastal village in West Cornwall, positioned approximately nine miles from the vibrant seaside resort of Penzance by road.
With the South West Coast Path winding through this charming seaside settlement, it’s easy to appreciate just how beautiful this spot truly is. This little Cornish village sits just two miles by car and one mile on foot from Cornwall’s iconic Land’s End.
Whilst not technically a cove in the strictest geological definition, the village of Sennen Cove has a handful of year-round inhabitants, though a significant proportion of the properties there serve as holiday rentals and seasonal residences.
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Famous for its rugged coastline, golden beaches, picture-perfect villages and rich maritime heritage, Cornwall is one of the most-visited corner of the UK. Sykes Cottages has a large number of holiday homes to choose from, with prices from £36 per night.
Sennen Cove serves an essential function for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) as it houses a critical lifeboat station. A modest fleet of working fishing vessels can be spotted moored in the cove, alongside recreational fishing boats, reports Cornwall Live.
Things to do in Sennen Cove
The panoramas from the headland slash observation point, Pedn-men-du, are unmatched and absolutely merit the brief walk from the heart of the coastal village.
Delightful boutiques, art galleries including the distinctive circular Roundhouse and Capstan Gallery, and an impressive array of dining and drinking establishments make Sennen Cove an essential destination to visit in Britain.
Sennen Cove features one principal village pub, Old Success Inn, which has become an absolute favourite amongst both residents and tourists.
The charming 17th-century fisherman’s inn radiates character and appeal, situated in a prime location that commands views across the golden sands of Sennen Cove Beach – another significant, perhaps the most crucial, attraction in the village.
Providing guests with expansive outdoor seating offering breathtaking vistas and a welcoming indoor area complete with a roaring fire, Old Success Inn is the essential spot when visiting Sennen Cove, with lodging also on offer for travellers.
Acclaim for the iconic pub at the centre of Sennen Cove is endless, with one Tripadvisor review stating: “A recent visit on the back of a trip nearby was excellent.
“The location, of course, cannot be beaten – even stormy weather is great to view from here – unmatched to be honest. What’s great is the service and personnel which is brilliant no matter who sees to you.
“You are charmed and looked after as soon as you walk in and that’s what we loved the most. Of course the excellent food to match also helps. You can come here any time you want (it’s ALWAYS open) and it doesn’t matter.”
The Blue Lagoon and Shantys Fish Bar (in the main village of Sennen) are obvious choices for an excellent portion of fish and chips. Sennen Cove Cafe, adjacent to the lifeboat station, is ideal for a quick snack whilst enjoying some watersports, swimming, or simply relaxing by the beach.
The historic First and Last Inn (also in mainland Sennen) is another excellent place to grab some food and a refreshing pint.
One of Cornwall’s finest beaches
Sennen Cove Beach, also popularly known as Whitesands Bay, has frequently been praised as one of Cornwall’s most stunning and attractive beaches, thanks to its mile-long white sands and spectacular views.
A premier surfing location for locals and visitors alike, Sennen Cove Beach is widely recognised as a surfing paradise celebrated for its near-perfect surf conditions.
The surfing schools and centres are ideal for lessons and surf equipment can be rented independently at the beach, near the café and the car park.
Sennen Cove Beach is also renowned for once being the professional territory of Britain’s first qualified lifeguard dog, Bilbo.
The 14-stone Newfoundland would regularly be spotted patrolling the beach’s immaculate sands in his red and yellow jacket, often at the back of a lifeguard’s quad bike.
Bilbo was trained by his owner, head RNLI lifeguard Steve Jamieson, and went on to become an active lifesaver as well as the face of beach safety on Sennen Cove Beach. He passed away in 2015, at the age of 12.
Tourists are consistently impressed by how pristine and well-kept this beach remains, even during peak times, with one reviewer commenting on Tripadvisor: “This is a truly lovely beach, spotlessly clean with excellent safety standards.
“Even though it was extremely busy as it was a lovely hot Cornwall day there was enough room for everyone. A lovely wide, family friendly beach where after swimming all day you could get a fantastic hand made pizza from a pizza truck. A wonderful experience to remember from a family holiday.”
The spectacular ‘castle on the cliff’
Located just half a mile from Sennen Cove on foot, Maen Cliff Castle is an ancient Iron Age hill fort perched on Mayon Cliff, positioned between Land’s End and Sennen Cove.
It’s an essential stop for anyone exploring the region, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a fascinating heritage that will whisk you centuries into the past.
Only earthworks and walls remain of the historic structure, alongside two standing gate stones which indicate the entrance to the site. Tracing its origins to approximately 500 BC, it stands as one of Cornwall’s earliest datable Cliff Castles, enriching its already compelling story.
Being one of just two fortified locations in Cornwall where early Iron Age pottery has been unearthed, Maen Cliff Castle represents a genuine treasure of the region.
Fragments of pottery spanning the era from 400 BC to 400 AD have been uncovered at the location, enhancing its intrigue and layered history.
In fact, local legend suggests the castle was once the dwelling of the giant Myen Du, though the promontory fort more probably served as a defensive retreat or observation point, a commercial trading station or a location for significant ceremonial gatherings.
A charming UK beach has miles of golden sands and sheltered waters – but TikTok users have dubbed it a ‘playground for the rich’ as it has the highest seaside property prices in the whole of the UK
The area has stunning natural features(Image: Thomas Faull via Getty Images)
Discovering a peaceful, secluded beach in the UK that hasn’t been swamped by holidaymakers can be difficult, especially if you’re after golden sands, sparkling clear waters, and stunning coastal scenery.
Some of the most well-known beaches in the UK that provide these features are Porthcurno Beach in Cornwall, Bournemouth Beach in Dorset, Holkham Beach in Norfolk, and Barafundle Bay in Pembrokeshire.
Yet, one beach that remains something of a hidden gem is Studland Bay in Dorset. Unlike its busy counterparts, Bournemouth and Sandbanks, Studland Bay has succeeded in preserving its unspoilt character and is the perfect destination for a spring swim. This secret spot features an impressive four miles of immaculate sands with protected waters, all surrounded by dunes and gentle cliffs.
The bay is made up of four National Trust-managed beaches: Shell Bay, Knoll Beach, Middle Beach and South Beach. Every beach at Studland welcomes dogs, permitting them on the sands all year round, making it an excellent choice for dog owners wanting to enjoy a tranquil coastal stroll with their four-legged friends.
The beach provides views across the chalk formations of Old Harry Rocks, part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. These iconic chalk formations rise from the sea, marking the most eastern point of the Jurassic Coast.
For visitors staying in the neighbouring towns of Poole and Bournemouth, Studland Bay is under an hour away by car and provides a calm escape from the commotion of the crowded seaside resorts.
Many TikTok users have dubbed Studland Bay ‘Bournemouth’s playground for the rich’, and travel influencers are said to be completely smitten with the immaculate beaches and stunning views. Located near Sandbanks, the UK’s priciest seaside location, it’s hardly surprising that locals are venturing out to uncover hidden gems.
The average property price in Sandbanks for 2025 was a whopping £854,817, and current Rightmove listings for Sandbanks include a two-bedroom flat for £425,000, and a four-bedroom semi-detached house for over £1.5 million.
Matthew Fox, CEO of LateRooms.com, has championed the destination. “Here in the UK, many of us dream of coastal coves and hidden bays, but for years, we’ve overlooked some of our own spectacular coastal gems,” he explained.
“Studland Bay is one of those places. The beach feels almost untouched compared to more popular British beaches, and it’s a far cry from the crowded seafronts of more traditional seaside destinations. On a warm summer’s day, you could be in a tropical paradise-sweeping sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views over Old Harry Rocks.”
He added: “It’s an area of outstanding natural beauty that allows visitors to unwind and reconnect with nature as they escape the hustle and bustle. The best time to appreciate Studland Bay and its unspoilt charm is to visit outside of the school holidays, where you can enjoy coastal walks and wildlife spotting in peace and tranquillity.”
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“Imagine how smug, then, the local folk of Kent feel, cool bags hooked onto their arms and towels flung over their shoulders, and they descend on Botany Bay.”
It continued to add: “At low tide, wade through the puddles in search of fossils and, come high tide, take a plunge knowing how shallow and rock-free many parts of the beach are – so much so, it has long been a favourite among families.”
Botany Bay sits between trendy seaside towns Margate and Broadstairs, and its beach is easily recognisable thanks to its tall white limestone cliffs and sea stacks.
A study conducted by Parkdean looked at the rainfall patterns over the duration of one year at some of the UK’s most popular beaches.
On average, Botany Bay gets 58 days of rainfall each year – to put that in perspective, the UK gets an average 164 days of rain a year.
And while it isn’t hot, Botany Bay is also one of the warmest beaches in the UK in winter thanks to its location on the Channel with average temperatures of 9.5C.
With a two-mile long beach, a charming high street and great food, it’s the perfect spot for a day trip
Nicola Roy Spare Time writer
11:29, 01 Mar 2026
Portobello, a seaside suburb in Edinburgh, is the perfect place for a day out(Image: Nicola Roy)
A coastal suburb located just 15 minutes from a major UK capital city deserves a spot on your spring getaway list right now. Although it’s not quite warm and sunny yet, a seaside trip is an excellent way to clear your head, and nothing quite compares to those stunning views across the water.
I visited Portobello near Edinburgh late last year, and I’m amazed I hadn’t made the journey earlier. With a high street packed with independent retailers, fantastic cuisine, and excellent transport connections, it’s truly an ideal destination if you’re looking to venture slightly off the tourist trail.
The bus journey from the city centre took just 15 minutes, dropping us directly in the town’s centre, and it was instantly apparent that this location was something special.
Unsurprisingly, our first port of call was heading straight to the waterfront for a leisurely stroll along the coast. The conditions were gloriously sunny and clear, albeit cold, but it was quite invigorating following the hour-long train journey from Glasgow.
Portobello’s shoreline stretches for two miles, boasting a Victorian-era promenade and panoramic views across the Firth of Forth. Given it was a bright Sunday morning, the area was reasonably busy, with numerous families out strolling and dogs bounding across the sand.
The first thing that struck me about the beach was its cleanliness. It’s evident that the locals of Portobello, or ‘Porty’ as it’s fondly referred to, take immense pride in their environment.
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I regret not visiting during the summer months, as I can see this being a fantastic spot for sunbathing and perhaps even taking a dip in the sea. But it’s not long now until it’ll hopefully be warm enough to do just that.
In 2024, Portobello was named the second-best coastal town in the UK by JoJo Maman Bebe, and its beach has also been honoured with a Keep Scotland Beautiful award, proving its allure.
After a leisurely stroll along the beach and working up an appetite, we decided it was time to grab a bite to eat. The seafront at Portobello beach is lined with a huge array of dining options, from enormous pizza slices at Civerino’s to brunch and coffee at The Beach House.
Many of these places offer outdoor seating, allowing you to dine practically on the beach, and it was lovely to see so many people doing just that.
We chose to visit Shrimp Wreck, a seafood joint boasting a small yet appetising menu. This street food stall was featured on BBC’s My Million Pound Menu and is renowned for its fish finger sandwiches – even securing a finalist position in the Birds Eye Fish Finger Sandwich Awards in 2017.
Naturally, this is what I opted for, and I can see why it’s so popular. Battered flaky fish fillets, mushy peas and the best chips I’ve ever had, all served in a soft roll, was perhaps the messiest meal I could have chosen, but I wouldn’t change a thing.
Next, it was time to properly explore the high street where the bus had left us. It’s situated just behind the promenade, and whilst it wasn’t as bustling as the beach itself, there were still plenty of people milling about – and importantly, a good number of shops open for business.
One of the standout spots for me was The Portobello Bookshop, a delightful independent bookshop brimming with novels, cookbooks and much more. The space was light, cosy and inviting, the sort of place where you could easily spend hours browsing without getting bored.
They also host events, such as Q+A’s with authors, so it’s worth checking out their schedule if you’re planning a visit.
Cove is another must-see if you’re a fan of gift shops. This one was packed with every trinket imaginable, from Jellycat toys to candles and shampoo bars, not to mention lovely cards and tempting chocolate bars too.
Portobello’s high street might not be the largest, but it’s certainly one of the most charming I’ve seen. There are additional food and drink options here, as well as pubs and even an Aldi, so you’re unlikely to run out of options anytime soon.
One spot we didn’t manage to visit, which I’m eager to return for, is the swim centre. Here in Portobello, you’ll discover a genuine Victorian Turkish bath, one of only 11 in the UK, as well as a gym and fitness studio, so this is certainly on the list for our next trip.
If you’ve never been to Portobello, it truly is the ideal location for a weekend getaway – even in chillier weather. Its proximity to the lively city of Edinburgh makes it perfect if you’re looking to escape the city rush and spend some time dining, drinking and unwinding by the water.
The idyllic Welsh seaside town of Rhos-on-Sea is home to a remarkable landmark – a tiny chapel that holds the title for being the smallest in the British Isles
It can only seat six people inside(Image: mpphotos via Getty Images)
This picturesque seaside town in Conwy, Wales provides a far more tranquil coastal retreat for those seeking respite by the shore – whilst also being home to a remarkable UK landmark.
Nestled discreetly along a coastal path boasting breathtaking vistas of the Welsh coastline, sits a diminutive chapel in Rhos-on-Sea, so minute that it claims the distinction of being the smallest throughout the entire British Isles.
St Trillo’s Chapel is so compact that it can accommodate merely six worshippers at once, and astonishingly, communion services continue to be held there.
The chapel takes its name from St Trillo, a 6th-century saint who is believed to have constructed his cell on this very site.
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Wales is renowned for its stunning mountains, picturesque coastline and rich Celtic history. Sykes has a wide and varied collection of holiday cottages, houses and apartments across the country. Prices start from £35 per night with current deals.
History
When St Trillo established his cell, research indicates it was probably fashioned from timber and wattle, with the possibility that the saint collected and erected a stone barrier to shield it from harsh winds.
However, it was the natural spring within the chapel, furnishing the saint with fresh water, which rendered this location ideal for his dwelling. The well persists to this day, positioned before the altar, and is believed to possess considerable historical significance.
This very spring subsequently provided water for countless baptisms throughout the mediaeval parish of Llandrillo and is regarded as possessing curative properties.
The water is thought to flow westward underneath the floor straight from the well, which ‘carries the blessed soul’ from the altar towards the congregation.
While we have a good understanding of its structure today, there’s no specific date attributed to the chapel due to numerous repairs carried out over the centuries. Despite its diminutive size and stone roof, it retains the essence of the saint’s original space.
Present day
St Trillo’s Chapel is nestled next to Marine Drive, a scenic route that stretches from Colwyn Bay along the tranquil seafront. From the road, the chapel is almost hidden from view, but a small signpost will guide you to its location.
The most convenient place to park would be Trillo Avenue, located on the inland side of Marine Drive. From here, you can stroll back to Marine Drive and make your way towards the chapel. It’s just a few metres north of the junction and is accompanied by a small garden, overlooking the sea.
One visitor shared their experience on TripAdvisor, writing: “Stumbled across this as I was walking along the promenade. It was so cute, and I was surprised to see it was open.
“It was quite cold outside, so it was a relief to get out of the wind. Very peaceful inside with two candles burning, and it was well kept. Useful sign nearby detailing its history.”
Another visitor added: “I have been fascinated with this tiny little chapel ever since I read about it on TripAdvisor. Took ages to find but so worth it.
“I could of sat there for ages as it had a comforting and peaceful atmosphere. It is wonderful that it’s kept open for visitors and so well looked after. The little garden is beautifully kept. A magical place on the beach.”
The beach
Beyond the iconic chapel, visitors find themselves surrounded by the stunning scenery of Rhos-on-Sea Beach. A well-loved promenade for walkers and cyclists curves along the golden sands, dotted with numerous cafes, pubs and other establishments perfect for enjoying refreshments whilst overlooking the ocean.
The beach sits within easy reach of the town centre and forms part of the considerably longer three-mile Colwyn Bay coastline. Boasting sweeping sea vistas, it proves particularly popular with families during the summer months who flock here to sunbathe, paddle in the waves or enjoy various water sports.
One recent visitor described it as a “traditional seaside town”. They wrote: “Lovely traditional seaside resort. Clean beach, plenty of car parking, plenty of little cafes and little ice cream and gift shops, like seaside resorts used to be.”
Bear in mind that whilst parking spaces line the promenade, charges do apply. Additionally, dog walking restrictions are enforced on specific sections of the beach during the period between May and September.
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Today it’s an Italianate apartment building wedged between an Indian restaurant and a Target. But what stood half a century ago at 1454 5th Street in downtown Santa Monica was the Beach Boys’ Brother Studio, a former porn theater turned recording complex where the preeminent American rock band of the 1960s sought to coax its resident genius, Brian Wilson, back into the fold after a long stretch in the wilderness.
Nobody would consider the albums the Beach Boys made at Brother in the mid-70s — among them “15 Big Ones,” “The Beach Boys Love You” and the long-shelved “Adult/Child” — the band’s most successful. (Well, nobody except for Wilson, who frequently cited the synthed-up “Love You” as his fave.) A decade after 1966’s “Pet Sounds,” which so blew the Beatles away that they had to answer with “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” the burly, bearded Beach Boys were far from the center of pop music; Wilson, in particular, had largely withdrawn from public life as he struggled with the effects of drugs and his fragile mental health.
Yet Brother offered the setting for a creative reflowering — arguably the band’s final moment of unity before the start of years of more serious infighting.
“It was like we all got back together and became Beach Boys again,” says Al Jardine, who founded the group in suburban Hawthorne in 1961 with Wilson, Wilson’s brothers Dennis and Carl and the Wilsons’ cousin Mike Love. Now, eight months after Brian Wilson’s death in June at age 82, a new box set looks back at the era as an expressive outpouring led by the band’s rejuvenated visionary.
“We Gotta Groove: The Brother Studio Years” collects 73 tracks from 1976 and ’77, including outtakes, demos, a remastered version of the “Love You” LP and the first official release of the widely bootlegged “Adult/Child,” which puts Wilson’s touchingly emotive singing amid orchestral arrangements in a glossy big-band style. Among the set’s highlights are a voice-and-piano rendition of “Still I Dream of It,” which, according to legend, Wilson wrote in the hopes that Frank Sinatra would perform it, and a majestic take on “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling” that shows how brilliant a record-maker Wilson remained despite all the well-documented turmoil.
“Brian was healing from his personal life, and he was ready to go in the studio again,” says Jardine, 83, whose latest tour with the members of Wilson’s road band will stop Friday night at L.A.’s United Theater on Broadway for a complete performance of “The Beach Boys Love You.” With quirky but heartfelt tunes about Wilson’s daughter Carnie (“I Wanna Pick You Up”) and Johnny Carson (uh, “Johnny Carson”) — not to mention the propulsive “Honkin’ Down the Highway,” on which Jardine sang lead — “Love You” has become something of a cult classic among Wilsonologists.
Says Jardine of the LP: “Brian’s spirit — his songwriting soul — is really strong on that one.”
The Beach Boys opened Brother Studio around 1974 near the corner of 5th Street and Broadway, just a few blocks from the beach. They’d traveled to the Netherlands to record their most recent album, “Holland”; before that, they cut several records at Wilson’s home on Bellagio Road in Bel-Air, though the group’s erstwhile mastermind spent as much time upstairs in his bedroom as he did recording music with his bandmates.
Wilson’s retreat after the flameout of his notoriously ambitious “Smile” project made space for the other Beach Boys to shape the band’s music, as on 1970’s fondly remembered “Sunflower.” But the lack of hits eventually took its toll: With a laugh, Love, 84, says one reason they started up Brother was that Wilson’s wife, Marilyn, eventually “threw in the towel after years of having her house flooded with people” to less-than-spectacular returns. “It was sort of like a self-preservation thing,” he adds.
The Beach Boys backstage at New York’s Central Park in 1977.
(Richard E. Aaron / Redferns)
In “We Gotta Groove’s” liner notes, engineer Stephen Moffitt, who designed Brother after working earlier at L.A.’s Village Recorders, recalls clearing out “all the porn crap” from the building and installing a circular stained-glass window to establish the right vibe. A vintage magazine ad boasts of the studio’s high-end gear as well as its “large screen video lounge” and “a playroom with pong, pinball and bumper pool.”
“It was a respite,” Love says. “A place to go and be creative.”
Just as the band was getting Brother up and running, the Beach Boys scored an unexpected smash with 1974’s “Endless Summer,” a double-LP compilation of the group’s early material — “Surfin’ Safari,” “Don’t Worry Baby,” “California Girls” — that topped the Billboard album chart on its way to sales of more than 3 million copies. A similar hits collection issued in the U.K., “20 Golden Greats,” did just as well there. “An enormous success,” says Love. “One in every five families had it.”
Suddenly, having more or less ignored group-minded efforts like “Holland” and “Carl and the Passions — ‘So Tough,’ ” the world remembered what it loved about the Beach Boys, and that was songs written and produced by Brian Wilson.
The band got to work at Brother recording “15 Big Ones,” which featured a mix of Wilson originals and covers of oldies like “Chapel of Love” and “Blueberry Hill.” The first Beach Boys album since “Pet Sounds” to carry a solo production credit for Wilson, it came accompanied by an aggressive marketing campaign known as “Brian Is Back!”; Wilson appeared on the cover of Rolling Stone — “The Healing of Brother Brian,” the cover line read — and took part in a Beach Boys television special that showed his return to the concert stage at Anaheim Stadium.
Earle Mankey, an engineer at Brother in the mid-70s, says “15 Big Ones” was less Wilson’s attempt to relight the flame than it was “everyone else’s attempt to relight the flame.” He recalls Wilson looking like a “scared rabbit” when he walked into the studio to find some of the session musicians who’d worked with the Beach Boys back in the old days. (This was the time of Wilson’s first dalliance with the psychologist Eugene Landy, who would reenter Wilson’s life to much controversy in the early ’80s.)
Fans watch the Beach Boys perform at Anaheim Stadium on July 3, 1976.
(Tony Korody / Sygma via Getty Images)
Even Love admits that “Brian Is Back!” was a little overblown. “Brian was back to some degree,” Love says now. “One hundred percent? Perhaps not.”
Yet the campaign worked: “15 Big Ones” went to No. 8 on the Billboard 200 — the highest for a Beach Boys studio album in more than a decade — while the LP spun off the band’s first Top 5 single since “Good Vibrations” with a rendition of Chuck Berry’s “Roll and Roll Music.”
More important, the commercial success set up Wilson for a true artistic comeback with “The Beach Boys Love You,” which can still startle you with the purity of its emotion and the strange textures of Wilson’s production. Check out the beautifully lopsided groove of “Mona,” which Dennis sings with a bleary smoker’s rasp, or the lonely-sounding electric-guitar lick floating over the Wilson brothers’ harmonies in “The Night Was So Young”; listen to Brian and Marilyn trading marital assurances in their almost painfully guileless duet, “Let’s Put Our Hearts Together.”
“Of all Brian’s stuff, I’d say it’s his most personal album after ‘Pet Sounds,’ ” says Darian Sahanaja, who played with Wilson for the last couple of decades of his life. “Maybe even more than ‘Pet Sounds,’ because Tony Asher wrote most of the lyrics on ‘Pet Sounds’ and Brian wrote most of the lyrics on ‘Love You.’ The Brian that I knew is very much living and breathing in these songs.”
Unlike “15 Big Ones,” “Love You” was not a hit, peaking at No. 53 — even lower than “Holland.” As much as he adores the album, Sahanaja finds it amusing that anyone in the Beach Boys’ camp might have expected Wilson to try to give rock fans what they wanted.
“He wasn’t listening to the Top 40 at the time,” he says. “He just wrote whatever came out of him. There was no, ‘I wonder what Fleetwood Mac’s up to…’ ”
Indeed, Wilson went even further out with “Adult/Child,” for which he commissioned orchestral arrangements by Dick Reynolds, who’d worked in the ’50s with Wilson’s beloved Four Freshmen. Both Love and Jardine say they can’t quite remember why the album didn’t come out; Love says “it may not have suited the record company at the time” and points out that even “Pet Sounds” got the group’s A&R rep wondering “if maybe we could do something more like ‘I Get Around.’ ”
Whatever the case, “Adult/Child’s” mothballing led to another withdrawal by Wilson, who had far less to do with the band’s next few records and who eventually turned to a solo career. In 2012, Wilson produced a so-so Beach Boys reunion record — minus Dennis, who died in 1983, and Carl, who died in 1998 — but for much of the ’00s he and Jardine toured under Wilson’s name while Love toured as the Beach Boys. (Love’s band will play three shows at the Hollywood Bowl in July.)
Asked what it’s been like performing with Wilson’s band since his death, Jardine says, “I just feel like he’s still around.” Sahanaja says he’s seen Jardine tear up as they’ve been working up songs from “Love You” on the road ahead of Friday’s show. But he’s also been gratified to see the excitement among younger fans regarding what he views as the Beach Boys’ last great album.
“The reaction has been more insane than I’ve ever seen for any of the shows we ever did with Brian,” he says. “It’s like they feel they found this secret thing that they really identify with.” He laughs. “I’m telling you, these kids are freaking out — jumping up and down, singing along to all the words. They’re, like, pogo-ing.”
Winning tip: fossils and soaring cliffs near Cardiff
I’m a fan of the lesser-known beaches along the dramatic and rugged Glamorgan Heritage coastline; Wick, Monknash and Nash Point. One of my favourite routes requires a scenic hike across fields and a precipitous scramble down Cwm Bach ladder. The reward is a gorgeous expanse of rocky beach with only the occasional distant naturist and huge stepped cliffs absolutely full of fossils, including some enormous ammonites. The nearby ancient Plough & Harrow feels like a step back in time and you’re being served beer in someone’s living room. P Thomas
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A magical swimming spot in Pembrokeshire
The Witches’ Cauldron. Photograph: Andrew Kearton/Alamy
Last July on the hottest day of the year my friend took me to the slightly hidden Witches’ Cauldron in Moylegrove. This is a collapsed cave where you can swim in water that glows magical emerald green in the sun. You can swim straight from the cave out to sea. It’s a bit of a scramble down on foot from the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, or you can access it by sea kayak through tunnels from the sea. Check that it’s accessible though, as sometimes it’s closed to protect local seals. Anna
Eryri’s most enchanting castle
The ruins of Castell y Bere boast wonderful views of the north Wales mountains. Photograph: Paul Weston/Alamy
North Wales is famous for its castles: Conwy, Caernarfon and Harlech are lauded and filled with visitors, year-round. But forget these Anglo-Saxon fleshpots and seek out Castell y Bere. Located near Tywyn, in the south of Gwynedd, this stronghold of medieval Welsh ruler Llywelyn ap Iorwerth (Llywelyn the Great) stands on an impressive, windswept crag, surrounded by flat, fertile estuarine pastures. Looking over this land you can sense the herds of cattle that once roamed here and fed the people. The atmosphere of history is pervasive, almost crushing. If you go there, tread lightly and don’t stay too long, lest its magic be ruined for others. Ian Statham
A petrified forest in Ceredigion
The remains of a petrified forest can be seen at Borth. Photograph: Dannie Evans/Alamy
The submerged forest of tree stumps between Ynyslas and Borth is incredible. The stumps of oak, pine, birch, willow and hazel are up to 5,000 years old and were preserved in peat. I like to walk down the beach to touch them and imagine how the world was all those years ago. Michael Gale
A slice of Bangor
Returning to Gwynedd where my dad grew up feels like a homecoming of sorts. A trip to Jones’ Pizza in Bangor after a journey on the marvellous North Wales mainline train fills hungry stomachs. It’s good value, bustling, and a pillar of community and student life. I like to take a scenic walk along the Menai Strait and wonder at both Thomas Telford’s Menai Bridge, built in 1826, and Britannia Bridge, before moseying around Caernarfon’s monthly Saturday craft fair and dried flower shop Herbariwm, and following the medieval castle’s walls, which snake around the town. Flora
A north coast cycle to Llandudno
The Prestatyn to Llandudno route runs for 18 miles. Photograph: DGD Images/Alamy
Not considering myself a serious cyclist, I found the 18-mile Prestatyn to Llandudno route to be a brilliant entry-level cycle ride. It’s almost all off-road, along national cycle network paths by the coast, so you can just focus on the beautiful north Wales coastline without worrying about cars or maps or anything else. There are plenty of lovely places to stop along the way to refuel and admire the view. Towards the end it gets pretty steep but you’re rewarded with beautiful views and the best chippy supper from Barnacles, which has a dedicated vegan menu. You can either cycle back again or take your bike on the train. Esther
A forest garden near Dolgellau
Cadair Idris from Coed y Brenin. Photograph: Henry Ciechanowicz/Alamy
Mountain bikers flock to Coed y Brenin, a few miles north of Dolgellau. After all, it’s the UK’s first purpose-built mountain biking centre. Few pause at the quietly enchanting Forest Garden though. Tucked away from the main trails, it offers a slower, more contemplative side of the forest. After slipping into disrepair in the early 2000s, it has been carefully restored. Redwoods, the tallest trees here, now rise above moss-covered boulders and a lively stream that swells into cascades after rain. Douglas firs from the 1920s stand alongside larch, spruce and pine from wetter corners of the world. Part of the circular trail is all-access, making this woodland retreat open to everyone – and it’s free entry. Alina Congreve
A wild iron age site, Ynys Môn (Anglesey)
Tŷ Mawr Hut Circles. Photograph: David Lyons/Alamy
Tŷ Mawr Hut Circles on the slopes of Holyhead Mountain is a true under-the-radar treasure. More than just a fascinating archaeological site, it’s a beautifully preserved glimpse into iron age life – and an unbeatable picnic spot, with sweeping views. Visit year-round, but late summer is especially magical when the hillside glows with vibrant purple heather. It feels peaceful, wild and wonderfully untouched. From here, continue your walk towards the dramatic South Stack lighthouse, where the cliffs plunge into the sea. With a bit of luck, you might even spot seals bobbing below or puffins nesting. Tatiana Campo
Artistic inspiration in Tenby and Cardiff
A painting of Tenby by Gwen John, circa 1900. Photograph: incamerastock/Alamy
The tiny but fascinating Tenby Museum and Art Gallery, housed in a Grade II-listed building in Pembrokeshire, is the oldest independent museum in Wales, having been established in 1878. As well as featuring geology, local history and culture, it is home to several intriguing works by Gwen and Augustus John, famous sibling artists who spent their childhoods in Tenby. Appetite whet, from there travel to Cardiff where a major retrospective of Gwen John, Strange Beauties, is running until 28 June at the National Museum. Adrian Brodkin
Welsh graveyards are special. From austere chapel burial grounds with their glass-domed immortelles to remote churchyards with Welsh-language inscriptions cut deeply into local slate, every village has something to see and something to teach you about life in the local community. Some recent discoveries of mine include Cefn Golau Cholera Cemetery, isolated on a windswept hill high above Tredegar (just south of the Bannau Brycheiniog national park) for fear of contagion from the dead; and the ancient circular-walled churchyard of St Baglan’s, Llanfaglan, set in a field overlooking the mouth of the Menai Strait just west of Caernarfon – a truly peaceful and magical place. Emma Halstead
Elafonisi Beach on the Greek island of Crete is famed for its stunning ‘pink sand’ and offers “natural beauty, crystal clear waters and unforgettable views” – and return flights start from just £41
Elafonisi is reportedly the ‘second best beach’ in the world (Image: Getty Images)
A breathtaking island renowned for its ‘pink sand’ boasts the ‘second best beach in the world’ – and Brits can snap up return flights for a mere £41. Elafonisi Beach, nestled on the sun-drenched Greek isle of Crete, recently clinched second place in a Tripadvisor survey of the globe’s top beaches.
It was pipped to the post by Mexican beach Isla Pasion, making it the highest-ranked in Europe, with visitors lauding its “natural beauty, crystal clear waters and unforgettable views”.
Even better, there are flights up for grabs in April for as little as £42 return, departing from and returning to Stansted Airport via Ryanair.
The beach has bewitched visitors with its signature ‘pink sand’. The unusual hue is reportedly due to mollusks, a vast group of soft-bodied creatures lacking a backbone.
With over 85,000 known species found in oceans, freshwater or on land, these creatures shed their shells at the end of their lives. These decompose and blend with the sand, resulting in the sand’s distinctive pink shade, reports the Express.
However, the beach has suffered due to its own popularity, scoring 4.4/4.5 based on more than 16,000 Tripadvisor reviews. Holidaymakers are advised to visit between 8am and 11am to dodge fellow holidaymakers.
The official Tripadvisor page also cautions visitors to “temper your expectations”. It states: “The amount of pink on display varies with conditions and the season. Regardless, the crystal clear waters make this a popular summer vacation spot, attracting sunbathers and water sport enthusiasts alike.
“Also, hike up to the neighbouring cedar tree reserves for a change of scenery. Visit in the morning to beat traffic and secure a chair and umbrella before the crowds arrive. Or come in the evening for a stunning sunset when most people have left.”
Elafonisi is located in the south-west of Crete, Greece‘s largest island and amongst its most popular with holidaymakers. It is approximately 45 miles by road from Chania, the closest airport.
Recent Tripadvisor reviews are largely enthusiastic. One visitor commented: “Free to visit one of the most beautiful natural paradises in the world. We spent a week in the area and came here to chill out daily.”
Another remarked: “Elafonissi is the icing on the cake called Crete. you need to spend at least a day to taste the beauty of the place; we went there at the end of September and the tourism was nothing short of … mighty. the clear water and the shoreline attract.”
The critical reviews typically highlight one issue – overcrowding and a perceived lack of ‘authenticity’. One tourist commented: “I personally cannot recommend it.
“There are far too many tourists and influencers on the beach. Really enjoying it and experiencing it authentically is hardly possible. Getting to the beach is also not particularly easy, as you have to drive numerous serpentines by car.”
ONE of the UK’s most popular beaches has been forced to close to the public indefinitely.
Access to Durdle Door beach, famous for its unique rock formation and fossil hunting, remains shut until further notice due to storm damage.
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The path to Durdle Door beach in Dorset has been closed after storm damageCredit: AlamyRecent storms swept away part of the steps onto the beachCredit: Alamy
The beach on the Jurassic Coast has been closed after storms destroyed part of the steps.
The bottom section was swept away leaving a steep drop.
A spokesperson told the BBC: “Weather conditions may continue to affect the coastline and the Lulworth Estate team encourages everyone to exercise caution and respect temporary closures put in place for public safety.”
One person wrote on Tripadvisor: “Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door: Reminded me of the Algarve in Portugal!”
Another added: “You don’t feel like you are in the UK. It seems more like Portugal or California.”
Sophie reveals why Durdle Door is one of her favourite spotsCredit: Sophie Swietochowski
Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski reveals what it’s actually like to visit Durdle Door – and why you should visit when it’s back open.
She said: “Despite the Jurassic Coast being one of the most well-known spots for rambling in the UK, it has managed to remain gloriously peaceful.
“I barely passed another soul during a Sunday hike along the rugged coastal path above Durdle Door a few years back – only a herd of cows munching on the unkempt grass at the top of the cliff.
“Admittedly, things grew a little busier as I approached Lulworth Cove. But that’s no surprise with a horseshoe-shaped pebble bay and turquoise waters that could rival those in the Caribbean.
“Make sure to wander over to Fossil Forest while you’re here too, where you can observe ripples of an ancient sea floor within the rocks and fossilised remains of old tree stumps that date back to the dinosaur era.”
EGYPT is having a holiday comeback, with trips to the destination booming according to all the experts.
The Red Sea resorts are tempting holidaymakers back with their incredible weather, beautiful beaches, activities like snorkelling – and it’s just five hours away.
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Brits are heading back to Egypt – and it’s 22C there this weekCredit: AlamySearches for Egypt holidays are up 10 per cent according to TUICredit: Alamy
For many years Egypt was the sought-after destination for Brits thanks to its promise of great weather and barely any rain.
In 2010, Egypt saw peak British holidaymaker numbers, with around 1.4million tourists visiting.
But then Brits stopped going to Egypt as much – leading to the 2011 flight cancellations – due to conflict within the region.
This was followed by the 2015 terror attack on a Russian passenger plane which killed all 224 onboard.
Now, many airlines fly to to Egypt, in particular the Red Sea resorts, like EgyptAir, easyJet, TUI, Wizz Air, British Airways, and Turkish Airlines.
And interest in heading to Egypt is higher than ever – TUI has revealed that customer numbers are up 10 percent more than last year.
It’s not just TUI which has found that Egypt is growing ever more popular. River cruise and tour operator Riviera Travel named it as the fastest-growing destination for 2026.
Comparing January-February 2025 with January-February 2026 bookings, Egypt is up 310 per cent.
It’s no surprise as in just five hours Brits can enjoy sun, sea and sand as well as affordable food and drink.
The resort cities are brilliant winter sun destinations and during the summer, temperatures can be as high as 38C – this week it’s seeing highs of 22C.
It’s not just the sunshine and beautiful resorts either as Egypt remains very affordable too.
According to Wise, a beer in Egypt can be as little as 50EG£ which is 77p.
Coffee can be as little as 54p and a meal at an inexpensive restaurant starts from £1.55.
Chris Logan, Commercial Director at TUI UK&I added: “It’s one of our most in demand destinations and a stand-out location for holidaymakers in 2026.
“The choice and standard of hotels have evolved significantly keeping pace with the increased demand from UK and international tourists.”
He named Sharm El Sheikh as a popular spot for couples with its blend of relaxation, vibrant nightlife, and world‑class reefs.
Hurghada is a popular resort destination for familiesCredit: AlamyTUI offers package holidays to resorts like the TUI MAGIC LIFE Redsina in Sharm el SheikhCredit: TUI
Whereas Hurghada is “especially popular with families thanks to its impressive all‑inclusive offering, shallow beaches, and brilliant snorkelling”.
There’s also Marsa Alam which is gaining in popularity with “pristine beaches, exceptional diving, and a more laid‑back atmosphere”.
Chris added: “Value for money is another reason for Egypt’s resurgence.
“Whether it’s grabbing a pint in Hurghada for the equivalent of 80p, enjoying a cocktail on the seafront in Sharm for just £3, or dining out at local restaurants, customers consistently tell us they’re getting exceptional quality at a price that’s hard to beat.
“While Spain and Turkey remain firm favourites, we’re seeing North Africa flourish and Egypt is leading the way as the top choice for 2026.
“It really does have everything – UNESCO listed bucket list experiences, a welcoming culture, inspiring history, adventure, value, amazing resorts and hotels, beautiful locations, crystal clear waters, and outstanding beaches.
“All within easy reach of the UK. What’s not to love?”
TUI has revealed some of its favourite package holidays.
In Marsa Alam, you can stay in the Jaz Grand Marsa with TUI from £625ppCredit: TUI
This is based on two adults sharing a Family Area Deluxe Double Room with Garden View and Balcony departing from London Gatwick on 11 March 2026 with 20kg hold luggage per person and transfers included.
If you’re heading to Marsa Alam, TUI offers a seven-night holiday at the Jaz Grand Marsa on an all-inclusive basis from £625 per person.
Price is based on two adults sharing a Superior Twin Room with Garden View and Balcony or Terrace departing from London Gatwick on 15 March 2026 with 20kg hold luggage per person and transfers included.
Here is perfect for swimmers as its private beach has a coral reef – and there’s a trio of sea-view pools.
Over in Hurghada, you can stay at the 3T Sindbad Club on an all-inclusive basis from £1114 per person.
Price is based on two adults and two children sharing a Superior Family Room with Pool View, Waterpark View and Balcony departing from Birmingham on 30 March 2026 with 20kg hold luggage per person and transfers included.
This hotel is great for families as it has its own waterpark and a pool scene as well a 10 bars and five restaurants.
Here are the 10 fastest-growing destinations for 2026…
Riviera Travel named these 10 destinations the fastest-growing destinations for this year…
This walk near Bridlington boasts a stunning 3km woodland trail leading to a secluded pebble beach with towering white cliffs, creating a tranquil bay perfect for peaceful coastal walks
It’s so secluded there’s often ‘not another person in sight’(Image: Thomas Tolkein/Flickr)
Stretching across 184 acres, this woodland trail guides you to a stunning beach whilst offering abundant wildlife sightings throughout your journey.
Danes Dyke nature reserve in Bridlington boasts the Headland’s most extensive woodland area, with a pathway leading directly to the coastline.
This distinctive sea and cliff habitat has earned protection as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, whilst the woodland itself gained official Nature Reserve designation in 2002.
Nature Reserve Walk
Visitors can start by using the spacious Pay and Display car park, which accommodates up to 80 vehicles. Located off Flamborough Road in Bridlington, simply follow the brown tourist signs pointing towards Danes Dyke.
Keen ramblers often favour the 3km circular route starting from the car park, though numerous alternative paths and distances are available to suit your preferences.
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Famous for its dramatic landscapes, historic cities, hearty food, and rich cultural heritage Yorkshire is just waiting to be explored. Sykes Cottages has a large number of properties to choose from with prices from £31 per night.
After meandering through approximately 1km of woodland, you’ll emerge at the beach, where sweeping vistas of the bay unfold before you.
One visitor shared on TripAdvisor: “You must visit Danes Dyke if you are visiting the area. Even the drive to it is eerie but magical, and the huge dyke itself is spectacular and steeped in history.”
They added: “You can just imagine how the Vikings tried to etch out the area to make it a land of their own. The beach is great too.”
Nestled within the woodland reserve lies a remarkable prehistoric earthwork, comprising a substantial bank and ditch that cuts through the landscape.
While unconfirmed, it’s thought to date back to the Iron Age, serving as a defensive structure that severed the Flamborough Headland.
Beach
Yet the true highlight of this excursion is undoubtedly the final stop, Danes Dyke Beach. The sand is reached via a tarmacked path that’s rather steep and has suffered damage from water and debris, requiring extra care when navigating.
The undisputed showstopper here is the towering white cliffs that dominate the predominantly shingle beach. They enclose the shoreline, confining it to its own sheltered bay, which explains its popularity amongst adventurers seeking solitude and peace.
Its secluded bay is reminiscent of the type of area once used for smuggling contraband, ferried in by vessels from the ocean. The surrounding Flamborough Head area does indeed boast a smuggling heritage, with its famous ‘smuggler’s caves’ situated at neighbouring Thornwick Bay.
One rambler said: “The day that my wife and I visited Danes Dyke, there was not another person in sight, just the two of us, with the waves crashing in and the sea salt from the spray in the air – pure magic.”
Another commented: “Lovely clean beach with a picturesque cliff line and white pebbles. A short walk from the car park. Great place for the dog to run. Hardly anyone about.”
Place to rest
The closest village to Danes Dyke is picturesque Sewerby, which boasts several traditional and welcoming pubs. Following a peaceful and leisurely stroll, you can tuck into hearty pub fare or pause for refreshments at The Ship Inn or The Old Forge, or even treat yourself to highly-rated fish and chips from Blu Savannah along the seafront.
The Ship Inn features a spacious beer garden perfect for summer months, which stretches towards the cliff edges. It’s built quite a name for itself with its range of cask ales and is renowned locally for staging various live music performances and beer festivals, making it an ideal spot to visit following a weekend ramble.
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This picturesque fishing village in Waterford has everything needed for a tranquil getaway, yet it’s often overlooked by those visiting Ireland’s coast
It’s home to plenty of lively pubs and restaurants (Image: Walter Bibikow via Getty Images)
Compact and picturesque, this Waterford fishing village offers everything required for a peaceful retreat, yet it frequently goes unnoticed by visitors exploring Ireland‘s coastline.
Nestled discreetly on the western edge of Waterford Harbour lies the charming village of Dunmore East, where there’s far more to discover than initially apparent.
Boasting up to six hidden beach coves and numerous scenic walking routes, visitors can fully embrace the splendour of the Irish seaboard.
While it’s thought people have lived in the village since pre-Iron Age times, the area truly flourished during the 1800s when it evolved into a holiday destination.
Playing a significant role in the fishing trade, featuring a delightful beach, a working harbour and an extensive selection of restaurants, it remains an excellent escape from everyday life, even now.
Beaches
Waterford itself boasts up to 147 km of coastline, with Dunmore East comprising part of that stretch, hosting up to six coves throughout the village alone.
These provide ideal locations for snorkelling and swimming, with two principal beaches proving most favoured amongst visitors – Councillors Beach and Lawlors Beach.
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Lawlor’s is situated directly in the village centre, whilst Councillors is a south-facing shore overlooking dramatic cliffs. One recent visitor posted a Google review, describing it as a “beautiful beach with stunning cliff views”, while another remarked it was “popular for a reason”.
They added: “The most popular beach in Dunmore, which can lead to it becoming crowded at times; however, it is popular for a reason.
“It is the largest beach here, so there is adequate space for everyone. It is sandy rather than rocky, and it is located in an area with very safe water, and lifeguards are on duty often.”
Walks
The standout trail in the vicinity, and arguably throughout the whole of Waterford, is the Dunmore East Cliff Walk, spanning 5km along the shoreline. During the 1830s, the path served as a commuter route for labourers travelling between Portally and Ballymacaw.
It’s a route suitable for all fitness levels and ages, typically taking around two hours to complete, whilst showcasing breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife throughout.
Particularly noteworthy are the sweeping coastal vistas, including views of Hook Head Lighthouse – one of the world’s oldest functioning lighthouses.
One walker described their experience on TripAdvisor, noting: “An absolutely gorgeous and easy walk along the cliffs above the sea. Stunning vistas, pretty flowers, pastures of sheep and cows. We took a lot of photos! The path is well marked and easy enough for a basic level of fitness.”
For something slightly different, there’s also the Dunmore East Woods walk, guiding you through an impressive 42-acre woodland expanse teeming with wildlife. Visitors can complete a circular route of the grounds or opt to discover one of the four distinct zones within it.
Restaurants
Dining in Dunmore East is an absolute must for genuine food enthusiasts, with numerous establishments offering locally caught seafood that diners consistently praise. A considerable number of these eateries also feature stunning coastal panoramas to complement your meal.
According to TripAdvisor ratings, the village’s top culinary destination is Azzurro, a family-operated restaurant and bar. They primarily offer Mediterranean fare, which patrons have labelled “top class”.
One delighted customer wrote: “This restaurant is top class. Pizzas to die for as well as heavenly desserts. Peroni on draught and fab coffee also. Pleasant and efficient staff. Can’t recommend highly enough.”
For highly-rated seafood in Dunmore East, The Strand Inn Seafood Restaurant sits directly on the waterfront, commanding views across the bay. A previous visitor shared: “Really exceptional service and a great energy in the restaurant and bar.
“Amazing views, sea air, great chowder. The front of house is very helpful, and I can’t recommend it more. It feels like a five-star hotel.”
Additional favourites amongst both locals and visitors include the Bay Café and Harper’s Point, perfect for a swift coffee or midday meal. A recent patron described the Bay café as “uniquely beautiful and quaint”, with many stumbling upon it during their seaside strolls.
Epic train journey starts in London then passes through Paris, leading travellers to a beach in Spain with golden sand and a lively atmosphere
San Sebastian in Spain boasts golden beaches reachable by train from the UK(Image: Jose Miguel Sanchez via Getty Images)
A stunning nine-hour rail journey that begins with the Eurostar in London and concludes on a breathtaking beach in Spain is sure to leave you mesmerised. The thrilling train adventure sets off from St Pancras station in London, whisking you away to the picturesque La Zurriola beach, nestled in the city of San Sebastián (Donostia) in Spain.
This charming beach is famed for its idyllic surroundings, golden shores, and superb surfing conditions, making it a favourite spot for both locals and holidaymakers. To reach this scenic beach in San Sebastián from London by rail, you’ll need to first board the Eurostar train from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord.
This leg of the journey takes roughly two hours and 15 minutes. From Paris, passengers can then jump onto a TGV train bound for Hendaye, which will take around five to six hours, reports the Express.
Upon reaching San Sebastián’s train station, you can opt for a bus or taxi ride to La Zurriola beach.
The beach is situated in the Gros district, which is within strolling distance from the train station, but it might be more practical to take a brief bus or taxi trip, particularly if you’re laden with luggage.
One visitor reviewed the seaside location on TripAdvisor, writing: “Visiting San Sebastián was truly unforgettable, especially with the breath-taking view of the Atlantic Ocean.
“The coastline is stunning, just a short walk from downtown, where you can surf, swim, or simply relax and soak in the soothing sounds of waves crashing on the shore.”
The beach boasts a vibrant ambience with a bustling promenade peppered with bars, eateries, and shops, creating a lively hub of activity.
The official tourism website for the region, San Sebastián Turismoa, described the area on their website: “The promenade running round the beach from Sagüés to the Kursaal ‘cubes’ continues on its way round Monte Urgull and along the Paseo Nuevo to end at the Peine del Viento sculpture on the Concha Bay.
“This spectacular city walk covers around six kilometres and offers spectacular sea views and delightful resting spots along the way.
“From the Zurriola, you can also make your way up to Monte Ulía, a green area only a moment’s walk from the city centre. A former look-out point for whales, Monte Ulía is the city’s best hillwalking option and follows part of the coastal route on the Way of Saint James.”
La Zurriola is renowned for being a top-notch surfing location in Europe. The beach regularly experiences powerful swells from the Bay of Biscay, drawing in surfers ranging from novices to seasoned pros.
Surf schools and hire shops are on hand to accommodate visitors keen to ride the waves or pick up the sport.
Beyond surfing, La Zurriola offers the chance to partake in other water sports such as bodyboarding and paddleboarding. The beach also occasionally plays host to beach volleyball tournaments and other leisure activities.
The most affordable ticket from St Pancras for 29 April currently stands at roughly £67 on Trainline.
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A woman has shared her pride after a stunning Welsh beach was named the best beach in the UK by TripAdvisor – and the stunning footage shows exactly what makes it special
14:21, 19 Feb 2026Updated 14:21, 19 Feb 2026
The beach is breathtaking (stock image)(Image: Justin Paget via Getty Images)
A stroll along the beach is a brilliant way to boost both physical and mental well-being, making it an ideal weekend activity, provided it’s not absolutely chucking it down. A Welsh woman, Sian, expressed her pride upon discovering that the beach named the best in the UK by TripAdvisor is located in her homeland.
Rhossili Bay, situated on the westernmost point of the Gower Peninsula in South Wales, consistently ranks amongst the finest beaches in the UK and Europe, and Sian believes it’s “not hard to see why”. Captioning her TikTok clip, she wrote: “Rhossili Bay has been voted TripAdvisor’s best beach in the UK. Honestly, it’s not hard to see why. Endless golden sands, wild Atlantic waves, and sunsets that stop you in your tracks.”
Sian then showcased a video montage featuring various snippets she’d captured of the stunning beach, from the entrance to the hill offering panoramic views over the beach, and a breathtaking sunset she had the fortune to witness.
In the comments section, users were swift to praise the beach as “very special,” and noted that people “don’t call it God’s country for nothing”. This nickname is often bestowed upon Wales due to its dramatic landscapes and spiritual historical significance.
Another user chimed in: “This is one of my all-time favourite places”.
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What does TripAdvisor have to say?
Many others on TripAdvisor share the same sentiment. The beach boasts an impressive 4.8 out of five rating on the site, which says: “Rhossili Bay lies at the western end of the beautiful Gower peninsula. Three miles of golden sands, iconic landscapes including Worms Head and Rhossili Down and history everywhere, from neolithic through to the more recent, including home to Edgar Evans.
“It’s a haven for walkers, with trails in all directions, including the Welsh Coastal Path. The beach welcomes dogs throughout the year, and the entire area is stunning regardless of the weather.”
“Today, the National Trust looks after two of the three miles of the beach, Rhossili Down, and most of the coastline between Rhossili and Port Eynon (26 miles of Gower coastline in total). The landscape is free. The village of Rhossili also hosts other private businesses. The car park is free to NT (National Trust) members during the day.
“Non-members are currently charged £5 per day (car). There is no overnight parking/camping. All profits from the car park go towards maintaining the area’s beauty. Please note that the toilets are owned and operated by Swansea Council.”
Public reviews also sing praises of the stunning beach. One visitor wrote: “During our trip to the Gower Peninsula, we also visited the beautiful Rhossili Bay. The stretch of beach there is rightly regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Wales.”
Another visitor enthused: “One of the most beautiful views you will see – in the UK or even in Europe. It is well-maintained. There are walks, but the views are reasonably accessible for those with mobility issues. Highly recommended.”
However, not everyone was smitten, with one critic labelling it as: “Pitiful, boring, uninspiring. Total waste of time and money.” But they were in the minority.
A third person recounted: “We were blessed with a warm sunny day when we arrived here for a look around. We parked in the NT car park (free with membership) and had a lovely walk along the coastal path, enjoying the fresh air and the views over the bay.
“There are walks of varying lengths, and it is well worth a visit. There are toilets and a few cafes to have a drink and some food too!”
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It’s 6 a.m. at Loyola High. Students are supposed to be asleep unless they’re on the swim team doing early morning laps at the pool. So why in the name of beach, surf and sunshine is the volleyball team practicing in the gym?
Welcome to February’s gym crunch time, when winter sports teams such as basketball are busy with playoffs and spring sports teams such as volleyball are gearing up for the start of their season.
“It’s pretty brutal,” said 6-foot-8 volleyball standout Blake Fahlbusch, who would prefer surfing in the morning and practicing volleyball in the afternoon.
Veteran coach Michael Boehle, sipping coffee, understands the routine is only temporary and does his best to get his players focused on their early morning routine.
The Cubs begin their season next week with the motivation that they have “unfinished business.”
Last year at one point they were the best team in Southern California, but there were too many distractions and too many obstacles to overcome. Players lost their home in the Palisades fire. Boehle found out he had prostate cancer. A well-known classmate, Braun Levi, was killed by a suspected drunken driver.
Boehle, feeling refreshed and excited after surgery removed the cancer, thinks the chemistry is better. Fahlbusch, a USC commit, is a candidate for best in the Southland because of his size and athleticism.
JP Wardy, a 6-4 Pepperdine commit, arrived from Newport Harbor to play his final year at Loyola, the school he was set to attend as a freshman until he moved to San Diego for family reasons.
It’s rise and shine for Loyola volleyball players during a 6 a.m. practice session.
(Eric Sondheimer / Los Angeles Times)
“It feels great to be back,” Wardy said. “I missed being at Loyola. I feel growing up, this was supposed to be the school I would go to.”
Loyola’s libero, Matt Kelly, is the brother of UCLA standout Sean Kelly. He’s committed to Loyola Chicago and considering how well his big brother serves, practicing against him has gotten Matt ready for anything. There’s also 6-6 Lucas Posell, a Princeton commit with a 4.7 grade-point average.
The usual title contenders should be the teams to watch with Loyola — Mira Costa, Redondo Union, Huntington Beach, Corona del Mar and Newport Harbor.
Mateo Fuerbringer of Mira Costa is a UCLA commit.
(Mira Costa)
There’s lots of top players, from juniors Teddy Mandelbaum and Mateo Fuerbringer of Mira Costa, both UCLA commits, to Taylor Boice of Redondo Union, a UC Irvine commit. Mira Costa has also added Jake Newman, a transfer from Mater Dei.
Boehle will be coaching in his 28th year, having won seven Southern Section championships. The Cubs have won every Mission League title since sharing the crown with Harvard-Westlake in 2007 and haven’t lost a league match since that season.
Loyola students cheer on the Loyola boys volleyball team during a match against Mira Costa on March 21, 2025.
(Steve Galluzzo / For The Times)
The annual Loyola-Mira Costa nonleague match that brings out fans en masse is set for March 20 at Mira Costa.
The Cubs open their season on Feb. 24 at home against Newport Harbor, so Wardy will be waving across the net to his former teammates.
As for his early impressions of his new team, Wardy said, “We’re good. I’m excited. Practices are competitive, which I really like because it helps us getting better.”
BRITS will have to carry a little more cash with them on holiday if they want to lounge about on this resort’s beautiful beaches.
The popular Spanish resort of Palma in Majorca has hiked the price of its sunbeds and parasols this summer.
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Sunloungers on popular Majorca beaches are having a price hikeCredit: AlamyIn some places, the price of premium sunbeds has risen to €70 (£60.87) per dayCredit: GOB MallorcaBeaches in Majorca have increased the price of beach loungers and parasolsCredit: Alamy
Majorca has always been a popular destination with Brits – it sees between 2.3 to 3.6million tourists each year.
Holidaymakers flock to the island for sunshine in the peak months with daytime highs ranging from 25C up to highs of 40C.
The capital of the Spanish resort, Palma, is known for its huge cathedral, pretty streets filled with ice cream shops and boutiques as well as its beautiful beaches.
Now, local media has revealed that the price of sunloungers on some of Palma’s most popular beach spots has been upped to as much as £60 per day.
Georgiana said: “Palma has it all – culture, heritage, gastronomy, shopping, leisure, sunshine and the beach.”
Michelle and Emily said: “Palma is a super vibrant city with stunning architecture and excellent dining options. (Check out Es Baluard for a large collection of modern art, or La Almudaina Royal Palace – the Spanish royal family’s Majorcan home).
“Stay in a beautiful boutique hotel in Palma’s Old Town like hotel Icon Rosetó, for an authentic and luxurious experience with all the sights and entertainment in walking distance.”
Michelle and Emily added: “There’s not a big club scene in Palma, there are lots of cool bars and Irish pubs offering live entertainment until the early morning hours.
“Any hotel along the ‘Paseo Maritimo’ – the promenade that runs along the harbour of Palma – is within walking distance from Santa Catalina, where most of the nightlife takes place – for a hotel with lots of facilities opt for Melia Palma Marina.”
Sun umbrellas in Palma, Majorca, will go up in price – and the number reducedCredit: Alamy
ONE popular seaside town known for its Royal Harbour and sweeping sandy beach is en route to having its heritage lift restored.
The Edwardian lift in Ramsgate has been out of action for four years, but could soon be transporting visitors once more.
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The East Cliff Lift in Ramsgate could be restoredCredit: AlamyThe seaside town is known for its big marina and sweeping Main Sands BeachCredit: Alamy
The historical East Cliff lift is found on Ramsgate’s seafront and was once used to transport visitors and locals between the upper promenade and main sands area.
However, the lift, which is at Harbour Parade, has been out of action since 2021.
The council says it requires “significant works” to get it up and running again.
Now, Thanet District Council (TDC) has put aside £120,000 to restore it in the 2026-27 draft budget.
The council’s cabinet will consider the proposals on February 24, 2026.
The East Cliff lift was built in 1910 and was one of many developed across the country.
The lifts were built so that seaside hotels could provide their guests with quick and easy access to the beach.
It’s not the first time the East Cliff lift has gone under major works – it stopped operations in the 1990s and after being neglected for years, it was restored in 1999.
However, it is the only surviving lift in Ramsgate – there were once three in the seaside town however the Marina Lift was demolished back in 1926.
And the West Cliff Lift went up for auction in December 2025.
Ramsgate itself is a popular seaside town, although it’s sometimes overlooked in favour of its neighbours, Broadstairs and Margate.
But lots of Brits will still flock there every summer, usually to its Main Sands Beach.
The long sandy stretch is next to the UK’s only Royal Harbour and Marina.
It has lots of amusements, arcades, and restaurants. During the summer, you can get ice cream and drinks from the kiosks and hire out deck chairs.
Brits flock to Ramsgate’s Main Sands Beach each yearCredit: Alamy
Ramsgate is also home to the UK’s biggest Wetherspoons.
Heritage Lab revealed it’s in “early discussions with an experienced developer” on creating an outdoor pool complex on Ramsgate’s East Cliff.
It could be built on the Marina Esplanade Car Park in Ramsgate.
What is now a council-owned car park was once the Marina Bathing Pool built in the 1930s. It had an Olympic-sized pool, diving area and filtered seawater.
Open for years to swimmers, it eventually closed in 1975 after structural issues.
However, Heritage Lab has hinted that it hopes to bring an open-air pool back to Ramsgate.
It wouldn’t just be a pool either – Heritage Lab has hinted that the possible site could have saunas, cafes and social spaces to make it a “year-round destination”.
The sandy beach in one of the sunniest parts of the UK has been ranked 15th on Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best beaches worldwide, beating destinations in Turkey, Indonesia and Greece
12:09, 17 Feb 2026Updated 12:45, 17 Feb 2026
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The coast is the sunniest part of the UK (Image: Oscarhill via Getty Images)
A breathtaking sandy beach in one of Britain’s sunniest corners has earned a spot on a prestigious list of the world’s finest coastal destinations.
Yaverland Beach at Sandown on the Isle of Wight has secured its place on Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best list, unveiled this morning. Claiming the No. 15 position in its first appearance, it outranks beaches in Turkey, Indonesia and Greece. Celebrated as a jewel in Britain’s coastal crown, Yaverland Beach features an expansive, golden, dog-friendly stretch with crystal-clear, shallow waters and striking multi-coloured cliffs.
With top-notch facilities on site and the award-winning The Beach Cafe nearby, it makes for an ideal day out throughout the year.
There’s solid reasoning behind why Yaverland deserves a visit. The Met Office has recently named the Isle of Wight Britain’s sunniest location, with inhabitants of this southern haven enjoying an average of five hours of sunshine daily, reports the Express.
This stands in stark contrast to the UK’s gloomiest spot, Lowther Hill in Scotland, which manages just shy of 2 hours and 45 minutes of daily sun.
Since last May, the brightest spot in the nation’s brightest region has officially been Shanklin, a beloved seaside destination on the island’s eastern shore that’s witnessed a surge in visitor numbers lately. Sandown lies merely 2.5 miles along the coast from Shanklin, meaning it’s clearly absorbing plenty of sunshine too.
The picturesque Sandown Bay earned the title of Britain’s favourite beach from Countryfile Magazine readers back in 2019. The stunning stretch spans eight miles of coastline linking Sandown and Shanklin.
Capitalising on this glorious setting and beautiful shoreline, a local community group is currently constructing a new tidal sea pool at Yaverland. Billed as “Olympic-sized and accessible”, it would mark the first development of its kind in the UK for a hundred years, according to the organisation.
Sykes Cottages offers a wide range of handpicked holiday homes across the UK and Ireland, from cosy countryside retreats to stunning coastal escapes. Prices start from £27 per night
Another remarkable local attraction is Shanklin Chine – a striking, largely concealed tourist destination that carves through the clifftops overlooking the Shanklin stretch of beach before descending onto the sand. A chine refers to a stream eroding into soft cliff faces, with Shanklin’s example formed over the past 10,000 years, extending 400m with an impressive 32m vertical drop. This wooded coastal gorge features waterfalls, woodland, and abundant greenery, with pathways and walkways offering paid entry for tourists.
This coastal location has welcomed numerous distinguished guests, including Charles Dickens, poet John Keats, American poet Longfellow, Lewis Carroll, and Charles Darwin, who penned portions of his work Origin of the Species there.
Top 10 Beaches in the World for 2026 according to Tripadvisor
Good for: Pink sand phenomenon, shallow lagoons, protected nature reserve, and can be easily accessed from Chania through the Elafonissi Beach Trip from Chania tour.
Best time to go: May & September
Unique features: Rare pink sand created by crushed shells
WHEN it comes to seaside resorts, Relais Cooden Beach Hotel is one of the most beautiful along the English coastline.
Here’s everything you need to know from room prices to dining.
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The Relais Cooden Beach is right on the beachCredit: Not known clear with picture deskThe hotel restaurant is a must too
What is the Relais Cooden Beach Hotel like?
A recently restored mock-Tudor hotel, the former holiday home of the aristocratic De La Warr family, set right on Cooden Beach.
A lot of hotels claim to be by the sea but this one really is – and with uninterrupted views across the Channel.
It’s friendly, welcoming and perfect for relaxing or for walking the dog.
What are the rooms like?
Take your pick from a range of comfortable and spotless sea-themed rooms and suites, many with sea views and all with wifi, 24-hour room service and tea and coffee-making facilities.
There are single rooms, family rooms, accessible and dog-friendly ones available.
Rooms from £170 a night with breakfast included.
What is there to eat and drink there?
The Rally Restaurant offers a good range of evening meals, from burgers, steaks and pork belly to fish and chips and catch of the day, much of it locally sourced.
Plenty for veggies too.
If it’s sunny, sit on the terrace and enjoy the view as you eat.
State-appointed defense counsel Ben Archbold, who is representing Naveed Akram, speaks to the media outside Downing Center Local Court in Sydney on Monday after his client made a brief appearance by video-link from prison. Photo by Bianca de Marchi/EPA
Feb. 16 (UPI) — The lone surviving suspect in the Bondi Beach shooting, in which 15 Jewish people were killed and 40 were injured, made his first court appearance in Sydney on Monday on murder and terrorism charges.
Naveed Akram, 24, appeared in court via video-link from Goulburn supermax prison to face 59 charges related to the Dec. 14 attack on a gathering to celebrate the Jewish festival of Hanukkah, including 15 counts of murder and one of carrying out a terror attack.
Akram is accused of carrying out the attack alongside his 50-year-old father, Sajid Arkram, who was shot dead at the scene by police who also shot Naveed, seriously injuring him.
Naveed Akram did not enter a plea and was asked only to confirm he understood the extension of a court order suppressing the identities of survivors of the attack who do not wish to be named in court.
After the brief hearing at Sydney’s Downing Center Local Court, criminal defense attorney Ben Archbold refused to answer questions as to how his client would plead, saying it was too early to say.
Court documents detail several videos, including one taken on one of their mobile phones in which the pair are allegedly seen undergoing firearms training at a rural location somewhere in New South Wales. Police allege the footage shows them “firing shotguns and moving in a tactical manner.”
Another video on Naveed Akram’s phone shows the pair allegedly posing with an Islamic State flag and long-arm firearms, in which they are allegedly heard making “a number of statements regarding their motivation for the Bondi attack and condemning the acts of ‘Zionists.'”
The documents allege the attack was “meticulously” planned over a period of months with CCTV footage also showing the pair carrying out a reconnaissance mission to Bondi on Dec. 12, in which they scoped out the footbridge from which they are alleged to have opened fire on around 1,000 people gathered in Archer Park two days later.
The pair is also alleged to have thrown several IEDs at the crowd, including a “tennis ball bomb,” but none of them detonated, according to the court documents.
Naveed and Sajid Akram spent most of November in an area of the southern Philippines known for Islamist militants, but authorities have said their investigations thus far indicate they acted alone and did not receive training or “logistical preparation” assistance there, as originally feared.
Naveed Akram is next scheduled to appear in court in April.
