A North East beach has been named one of the best in Britain for summer holidays.
Tynemouth Longsands in North Tyneside secured eighth place in a national ranking of the top 10 beaches for active summer staycations.
The list, compiled by SportsCover Direct, considered factors including water quality, Blue Flag and Seaside Award status, lifeguard provision, average summer sea temperatures, and sunshine hours.
It was joined in the list by Mundesley Beach in Norfolk at seventh place.
Chris Trotman at SportsCover Direct said: "The growth in water-based activity we're seeing, both in the UK and abroad, is something we're witnessing directly through our own data.
"Sports travel insurance policies have grown by 182 per cent in just two years, and activities like sailing, paddleboarding and open water swimming are among the fastest growing in terms of the cover people are taking out.
"What this research shows is that Britain's coastline is genuinely world-class for active travel, with water quality at record highs and an infrastructure of lifeguards, activity providers and monitored bathing sites that gives people real confidence to get in the water."
The beach is among the ten featured in SportsCover Direct’s ranking that are patrolled by RNLI lifeguards at peak season.
Staycations are on the rise again this summer, with Airbnb reporting domestic destination searches are up more than 11 per cent year-on-year.
This trend comes amid rising fuel costs and geopolitical uncertainty that are prompting more people to holiday closer to home.
Mr Trotman emphasised the importance of proper planning and insurance for anyone taking part in water-based activities.
He said: "Whether you are planning an active staycation or a trip abroad, it’s essential to take all of the necessary safety precautions and make sure your cover reflects the activities you're actually planning.
"Standard travel insurance frequently doesn't cover specialist adventure activities and watersports, and that gap matters when you're out on the water."
Experts also stressed that visitors should prioritise safety when planning water activities.
Darryll Shaw, head of membership at Paddle UK, said: "Active staycations and water-based activities continue to grow in popularity because people are looking for affordable, accessible ways to get outside, be active, and enjoy the coast and waterways.
"Recreation trends also continue to show strong interest in paddleboarding, canoeing, surfing, and wild swimming and there is a clear focus on being social and family friendly, while remaining safe and confident on the water."
He offered practical advice for beachgoers: "When choosing a beach or coastal location, it’s important to check the beach forecast, tides, weather, flags, and any local hazards before setting out.
"Consider the wind direction to ensure the wind is pushing you somewhere safe and opt for lifeguarded beaches, marked swim zones, and clear signage to help you make safer choices.
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"My practical advice for an active coastal staycation would be to always wear a buoyancy aid, tell someone your plans, carry a mobile phone and only take part within your own ability and experience."
Other beaches in the top 10 included Joss Bay in Kent, Croyde Bay in Devon, and Fistral Beach in Cornwall.
Pembrokeshire and East Sussex also featured in the ranking, highlighting the wide appeal of the UK coastline for adventure seekers.
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