A village beach with a large green area and car park has been dubbed a "paradise" and "hidden gem".

Lancing Beach, which is just a short distance away from Worthing, seems to impress visitors every year.

The beach has earned an average 4.5 out of five-star rating on TripAdvisor based on its reviews and is listed as the second best thing to do in Lancing overall.

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Beachgoers praise the beach for its car parking facilities, scenery and lack of crowds.

One visitor said: "Most travellers drive straight through Lancing. This is a shame, because the beach is a little gem.

"Unlike the rocky beach in Brighton or Worthing, this beach is sandy. It's perfect on a sunny day and has a charming relaxed atmosphere.

"On a windy day you can fly kites on the green behind the beach.

"When the tide is out you can search for crabs in the muddy sand. This beach isn't drop-dead gorgeous, but it's great for a short stop, especially if you have young kids."

Another visitor said it is one of the best beaches in this part of the country.

They wrote: "A very sandy beach right next to the river. You can take a picnic with you and enjoy one of the best beaches along the south coast."

The beach was also praised for having something for all ages to do.

One visitor said: "I just love Lancing beach. Lovely beach. Perfect on a sunny day as well as a gloomy day. Such a nice place to be. Clean, nice views and quiet. Who needs to go abroad?"

Another person from Worthing said: "Lancing Beach is a nice little gem, there is now a café and gym there, a little hut with seats, nice grassed area and a children swing park. Big car park, a nice place to go to in the nicer months of the year with a picnic."

The beach was also dubbed a "paradise" for children and kite surfers.

A reviewer said: "Kite surfers' and kids' paradise. We love it here as it is rarely crowded and ideal for our grandchildren especially at low tide when the beach is wide and sandy. This makes it possible to walk as far as Worthing Pier and beyond, play ball games or just chill.

"The excellent Perch restaurant opened in 2015 and has been a very popular and welcome addition to local facilities.

"Lancing Green is always there for the children to run around when you want a change from the beach and has regular funfairs, car boot fairs and other events."

The beach has a number of facilities including a green area, a car park and toilet facilities.

It is just a fifteen-minute drive from the centre of Worthing.