When many of us think of British seaside holidays, we fall into the trap of thinking of days gone by – with funfairs, ice-creams, donkey rides on the beach and anything but good weather. It’s no wonder then that many of us prefer to take cheap flights abroad to destinations such as La Manga, in Spain, with its stunning coastline and more reliable climate.
However, before you jet away on your Spanish break, consider an alternative much closer to home – such as a stay in Weymouth. For Weymouth is a destination that does not fit the traditional seaside mould – it has one of the most picturesque harbours in Europe and a lot more to offer than just Punch & Judy.
Natural attraction
The area of La Manga can be found in the Region of Murcia, Spain, with a strip that stretches for 22km and separates the Mediterranean Sea from the Minor Sea lagoon. The La Manga sandbar is cut off by natural channels that keep the seas in contact with each other; and with the space remaining relatively untouched until the 1960s it quickly became a tourist destination. 
Most visitors that consider La Manga for their break are not just attracted to its shores however – they are also drawn to its golf courses. There are three championship courses in La Manga – these include: La Manga Golf Club, with its 18holes and various putting and chipping greens; Club de Golf Torre-Pacheco, a nine-hole course that is less well-known with visitors but well worth a day out; and Roda Golf Course, with a wide driving range and putting green.
La Manga is also considered an international sports station on its waters too. There are sailing and skiing schools that run periodical courses; while it also has activities available including: canoeing, windsurfing and catamarans. In addition, La Manga Stadium is close by with the La Manga Cup having been held in the area since 1999.
However, when it comes to sporting activities, few beaches in the world can match the variety on offer in Weymouth. Throughout the year it holds several major events ranging from tag rugby and handball; to motocross, international volleyball and the international beach kite festival. Furthermore, the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy has been chosen as the venue for the sailing events in the 2012 Summer Olympics. It was considered that the venue already offered world class sailing facilities and they have been built on with a new 220m slipway that can be accessed at all states no matter what the tide or wind; an extended dinghy park with room for 600 boats; and an additional 70 marina berths.
The beach itself has spectacular views and plenty of traditional favourites ranging from the aforementioned donkey rides and Punch & Judy shows; to trampolines, Pedelos and swing boats. Meanwhile, the 17th Century harbour, which can be found adjacent to the town and beach, is an ideal place to relax after a hard day of water sports, with plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from.
Further afield
One of the key reasons to visit both La Manga and Weymouth is not just the places themselves – but also the surrounding areas.
For example, the entrance to the La Manga strip starts at a lighthouse called Cabo de Palos with lots of sandy beaches if you feel like relaxing at the side of the road. Close to the end of the strip meanwhile, is the village of Veneziola, with its own beautiful yacht club and another impressive lighthouse. It’s also a hotspot for restaurants and bars looking out over the Mar Menor.
Weymouth meanwhile, can be found in the county of Dorset, with its World Heritage Jurassic Coast. It is one of the most popular attractions in the whole of the UK with the rocks of the Dorset taking you back to a time when dinosaurs roamed the earth. Meanwhile, the isle of Portland is within easy reach and is considered an explorer’s paradise with its history and folklore dating back to Roman times.
Our verdict –Weymouth on a budget or La Manga
Both La Manga and Weymouth tip the balance on a traditional beach break.
Of course La Manga has the spectacular coastline and great weather that help to make Spain so popular – however, this natural lagoon is just that little bit different from the pack with its lighthouses, picturesque villages and range of activities meaning it will appeal to more than just sun seekers.
Meanwhile Weymouth certainly has plenty of British traditions – however, it goes far beyond them with its incredible water sports facilities and its beautiful old harbour. It can also be found in one of the most naturally beautiful areas of the UK – and that’s why we feel it may have the edge on its Spanish counterpart, albeit you may want to pray that you get the weather to match its setting.
Friday: Chester on a budget or Siena.