Ainsdale-on-Sea

Ainsdale-on-Sea is an ideal starting point for exploring Sefton's Natural Coast. A mile from the village of Ainsdale, it is Southport's main bathing beach with Lifeguards on duty during the summer season.

Recognised as one of the premier beaches in the UK for extreme kite activities, Ainsdale Beach is one of the most popular on the coast and achieves the Seaside Award annually. It is the only beach in the North West to be awarded the international Blue Flag (in 2004 and 2006).

The Ainsdale Discovery Centre, situated adjacent to the beach and Ainsdale and Birkdale Sandhills Local Nature Reserve, provides local information, a classroom facility and free cycle hire.

The whole of this Gateway is managed by Sefton Coast and Countryside Service. There is good access by public transport, toilets at the beach entrance and ample parking for cars. Nearby Ainsdale Village offers good shopping and restaurants.

In addition to this, there is the Ainsdale Sand Dunes National Nature Reserve which is a 508-hectare site comprising rare dunes, beach and woodland habitats.