Keeping children entertained during summer break can be a costly challenge, especially when traditional seaside trips from London can add up quickly. Popular destinations like Brighton, Bournemouth, or Kent often come with steep train fares and entry fees, such as the charge to access Brighton Pier. Add food and activities into the mix, and a family day out becomes expensive fast.
But what if I told you you could enjoy a sandy, fun-filled beach day with your family—without leaving South London or spending a penny on entry? Enter Costa del Croydon, a brilliantly unique, man-made beach perched atop a rooftop car park in the heart of Croydon’s shopping centre. Yes, it sounds almost too good to be true, but this urban oasis features real sand, water features, and palm trees, creating a surprisingly authentic beach vibe.
Launched last year, this pop-up attraction welcomed over 30,000 visitors. This summer promises to be even bigger and better, with new experiences, an expanded activity schedule, and a wider array of delicious food and beverages. Best of all, admission is completely free throughout August, though booking ahead online is essential.
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A spokesperson expressed, “Costa del Croydon is a community-driven event designed to bring joy to local residents who might not have easy access to traditional seaside spots. Many families here live in flats without outdoor space, so this beach creates a much-needed escape, right in the town centre.”
Community engagement is a priority, with dedicated Tuesdays featuring performances and showcases from local groups, ensuring a diverse and lively atmosphere.
Stepping onto the rooftop, I was immediately enveloped by the lively, cheerful environment: children’s laughter, Caribbean music, and the warm glow of late summer sun. The pristine sandpit, framed by swaying palm trees, remained immaculate despite the bustling crowd of energetic kids—a testament to excellent maintenance.
Alongside the sandpit, visitors can enjoy oversized games like giant chess and Connect Four, while fun water fountains offer a refreshing splash or an easy way to tidy up. There’s go-karting, a ‘fire blast’ water game, trampolines, and food trucks serving everything from toasties and jacket potatoes to burgers and wings.
Speaking of food, I savoured a generously sized jacket potato topped with chilli con carne and cheese for just £6—a delicious, sharable treat. We also indulged in a large ice cream cone with a flake for the same price. The food vendors are independent businesses from across the UK, like the Candy Cart, whose owner travelled all the way from Scotland to bring sweet seaside nostalgia to Croydon.
The atmosphere truly encapsulates the beach experience, complete with a hook-a-duck stall offering appealing prizes, though the £5 per game cost might be a deterrent for some. Scattered hammocks and hireable huts provide ideal resting spots for those wanting to relax and soak up the sunshine.
Interestingly, this pop-up beach isn’t just a family destination—local office workers often visit during lunch breaks to enjoy a sunny escape from their daily routines.
As the sun began to set, the urban backdrop faded away, and for a fleeting moment, those artificial palm trees felt as real as any you’d find on the coast. Hearing parents share their enthusiasm for the space confirmed the importance of such community hubs. Some suggested adding more activities suitable for toddlers and noted the food prices were reasonable compared to other venues.
Costa del Croydon’s season runs until 31 August, so don’t miss the chance to experience this extraordinary free beach without ever leaving London.