Summer in Brighton: The Ultimate Survival Guide 2026

Summer in Brighton, there’s nothing else quite like it. Just think of our golden (pebbled) beaches, lovely parks to chill out in the shade, and the many, many cafés to take your pick from for a summer refreshment. Our seaside city has become the UK’s unofficial summer capital! But to make the most of your summer in Brighton, you need a plan — if you’re looking for things to do in Brighton this summer then read on for our ultimate Brighton summer survival guide.

Whether you’re a visitor or a local, here’s how to do summer in Brighton right — and how one of the best ways to finish off a day of sun-lounging or exploring the city is with a show at Komedia.

No summer in Brighton is complete without a visit to the famous pebble beach. Pack your swimwear, suncream, and some sturdy shoes — those pebbles are no joke (pun intended). It’s not all about swimming in the sea, though. The beach is a great place to just sit back and relax with friends, maybe grab a few drinks or an ice cream, and just enjoy the summer vibes. 

Here are some of our top tips:

• Grab some fish & chips from a seafront stall (with No Catch as a must for vegans). It just wouldn’t be a British beach day without them. Watch out for the seagulls, though!
• Paddleboard or kayak from the Marina – explore the surrounding area by sea and take in the sights under the beautiful chalk cliffs.
• Wander the pier for classic arcade fun – take in the sights and smells, and grab some classic funfair food like doughnuts or candyfloss.

 Survival tip: Stay hydrated and reapply your suncream! That Brighton sun and sea breeze can sneak up on you.

Brighton’s energy doesn’t stop when the sun gets too strong or when a sudden downpour interrupts the afternoon — it just moves inside. Duck into the Lanes and the North Laine* for independent shops, coffee houses, and cool vintage finds. Maybe even a spontaneous tattoo to commemorate your Brighton visit?

*Top tip: Don’t confuse the two, or you’ll make the locals angry!

When the sun sets, the Brighton summer fun doesn’t stop— and Komedia is at the heart of the action!

After a day of sun, sea, food, and strolling, there’s no better way to round off your evening than with laugh-out-loud comedy, drag, music, or a themed club night at one of Brighton’s best venues.

Arguably Brighton’s best comedy night and winner of the 2026 Chortle award for Best Pro Comedy night in the South! Enjoy over 2 1/2 hours of top stand-up with jugs of your favourite ice-cold beverages, freshly prepared food, and relaxed cabaret-style seating. ‘One of the best things to do in the city’ – We Love Brighton

Looking for a bottomless brunch in Brighton, with a twist? Mystery Musicals Bottomless Brunch features a sing-along show hosted by comedian & presenter Lee Peart alongside a tasty brunch (with v/vg/gf options) and bottomless selected drinks. Enjoy the songs you know and love with each date presenting a different musical, with on-screen subtitles and Golden Tickets for Best Dressed, Best Singers, and Best Dancers, you may even join Lee on stage to compete in a dance challenge or a lip-synch battle. Remember, the winner takes it all!

One of Brighton’s best clubs. Vibe the night away after a day of exploring with alternative rock, post-punk, synth and more, from 1979-1989. Expect to hear Siouxsie & The Banshees, The Clash, The Cramps, The Human League, The Cure, Echo & The Bunnymen, Depeche Mode, New Order, The Sisters Of Mercy to name a few!

Back for it’s 21st year, Brighton Mod Weekender is packed with live music, club nights, and DJs, running from Thu 27th – Sun 30^th August. Daytime events are held at the Volks and evening events at Komedia, where we have a huge wooden dancefloor – perfect for those Northern Soul and Mod tunes! You’ll be dancing till the sun comes up.

A one-day, multi-venue festival across Brighton celebrating all things psych! With a monumental line-up including Stereolab, White Denim, Allah-Las, Anna von Hausswolff, Mandy and many more. Your ticket gets you access to all festival venues, including Komedia!

Not only do we deliver top-notch comedy, but we also have an in-house kitchen ready to serve you up a delicious meal or snack to go alongside your show. Not to mention our bar stocks a wide range of alcoholic – and alcohol-free – drinks to keep you sated throughout the night, ready to rinse and repeat for the following days!

A summer in Brighton can be full-on yet unforgettable. With the right mix of sun, sea, shopping, and standout shows, you’ll be surviving (no, thriving!) in style. 

Check our What’s On page to see what you can grab tickets to during your trip!