17 Best Beaches in Kent: Your Essential Guide with Local Tips

Kent might not be the first place that springs to mind when you’re daydreaming about sandy beaches while stuck at your desk on a grey Tuesday, but honestly? It should be. The county’s coastline is this lovely mix of pretty seaside towns, hidden coves and stretches of sand that feel miles away from London (even though they’re barely an hour on the train).

You’ve got everything from the postcard-perfect Viking Bay in Broadstairs to the slightly wild, pebble shores of Dungeness that look like they’ve been borrowed from another planet. Some are perfect for families with kids who want to build sandcastles and eat ice cream, while others are better suited to long, windswept walks where you can pretend you’re in a moody film.

I love a visit to a Kent beach any day and of course sunny July day is perfect for swimming! Saying that I really like to walk by the sea off season, even in the winter, when the wind is quite sharp, but the views are still lovely and the walk is (mostly) flat and reasonably dry!

This is why (as I realised when picking photos for this blog post) I seem to have a lot of winter or off season photos. So, if I’m wearing a long jumper and a hat, don’t let that put you off, I promise in the summer the Kent beaches are much warmer!

1. Botany Bay 

Botany Bay Beach is one of most beautiful beaches in Kent, because it has striking white chalk cliffs, dramatic sea stacks and wide expanse of golden sand. You can find this beach between Margate and Broadstairs and it’s perfect for relaxing walks, fossil hunting and scenic views of the North Sea.

• Location: between Margate and Broadstairs – Marine Drive, Broadstairs, CT10 3LG, and it is easily accessible from both towns
• Type of beach: Sandy
• Water quality: Excellent
• Lifeguards: Yes, present during the RNLI lifeguard season
• Facilities: Public toilets; limited facilities overall; no cafes, showers, or changing rooms on the beach
• Dog friendly: Dogs are banned from 1 May to 30 September, 10am–6pm; allowed outside these times
• Parking: Limited free parking on nearby residential roads; no dedicated large car park, and parking can be challenging during busy periods

2. Joss Bay 

Joss Bay Beach is a popular sandy beach with excellent surfing conditions and family-friendly atmosphere. There are some amazing chalk cliffs above the beach and it’s popular both with locals and day visitors looking for a traditional seaside day out.

• Location: Accessed via Joss Gap Road, postcode CT10 3PG; situated between Broadstairs and Margate.
• Type of beach: Sandy
• Water quality: Excellent
• Lifeguards: Yes, present during the summer season (usually May to September)
• Facilities: Beach café, toilets, surf school, and seasonal equipment hire; no showers or changing rooms
• Dog friendly: Dogs are not allowed on the beach from 1 May to 30 September, 10am–6pm; allowed outside these times
• Parking: Paid parking available close to the beach, with spaces filling up quickly on busy days

3. Viking Bay

Viking Bay in Broadstairs is the town’s main beach and because of that it can get very busy. It’s a lovely sandy beach with shallow access to water, so its very popular with families. There are lovely colourful beach huts and it has a proper seaside charm of a little town with all amenities nearby.

• Location: Victoria Parade, Broadstairs, CT10 1NB; centrally located in Broadstairs, between Margate and Ramsgate
• Type of beach: Sandy
• Water quality: Good
• Lifeguards: Yes, on duty during the summer season (typically May to September)
• Facilities: Cafés, restaurants, ice cream stalls, public toilets, showers, changing rooms, children’s rides, and a promenade
• Dog friendly: Dogs are not allowed on the main beach from 1 May to 30 September, 10am–6pm; allowed outside these times
• Parking: Paid parking available nearby, with several car parks and on-street options close to the beach

4. Walpole Bay

Walpole Bay Beach is a large and family-friendly beach near Margate with tidal pool and wide sandy stretch at low tide. It’s a great place for swimming, exploring rock pools and enjoying peaceful views of the Kent coast.

• Location: Fifth Avenue, Cliftonville, Margate, CT9 2JJ; located between Margate and Broadstairs
• Type of beach: Sandy with some rocky areas and plenty of rock pools
• Water quality: Good
• Lifeguards: No regular lifeguard service
• Facilities: Café, public toilets, promenade, tidal pool, and nearby play areas; no showers or changing rooms
• Dog friendly: Dogs are not allowed on the main beach from 1 May to 30 September, 10am–6pm; allowed outside these times
• Parking: Free and paid parking available close by, with spaces along nearby streets and small car parks

5. Dungeness Beach

Dungeness Beach is a truly unique place with the largest shingle beach in Britain and amazing views of the sea and sky. It’s very remote, but still very popular with photographers, bird watchers and walkers. A totally cool way is to travel by the miniature railway from nearby Hythe with Dungeness station being the last stop.

• Location: Dungeness Road, Dungeness, TN29 9NB; located on the southern tip of Kent, between Lydd and Greatstone
• Type of beach: Shingle (pebble)
• Water quality: Good, but the sea can be deep and currents strong
• Lifeguards: No lifeguards present at any time
• Facilities: Limited; there is a café and toilets near the old lighthouse, but no showers or changing rooms
• Dog friendly: Yes, dogs are welcome all year round
• Parking: Free parking is available close to the beach, but spaces can be limited during busy periods

6. Greatstone Beach

Greatstone Beach is a long, sweeping stretch of soft sand, perfect for family days out, walking and watersports. It’s very peaceful here, so it’s perfect for a quiet relaxing day out.

• Location: Coast Road, Greatstone, TN28 8NR; situated between Dungeness and Littlestone-on-Sea
• Type of beach: Sandy
• Water quality: Good, with clear water especially at high tide
• Lifeguards: No lifeguards present
• Facilities: Limited; a few cafés and shops nearby, public toilets available, but no showers or changing rooms
• Dog friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed all year round, but owners are asked to clean up after their pets
• Parking: Free and paid parking options available close to the beach, with spaces usually easy to find except on very busy days

7. Minnis Bay Beach

Minnis Bay Beach is a large sandy beach popular with families, walkers and water sports enthusiasts. It has a long promenade with plenty of parking and outdoor cafe.

• Location: The Parade, Minnis Bay, Birchington, CT7 9UN; located in Birchington-on-Sea, between Margate and Herne Bay
• Type of beach: Sandy
• Water quality: Excellent
• Lifeguards: Yes, present during the summer season (usually weekends and school holidays from May to September)
• Facilities: Café, public toilets, children’s play area, picnic spots, and beach huts for hire; no showers or changing rooms
• Dog friendly: Dogs are not allowed on the main beach from 1 May to 30 September, 10am–6pm; welcome outside these times
• Parking: Free parking available close to the beach, with plenty of spaces for most of the year

8. Margate Main Sands

Margate Main Sands is a classic British seaside beach with golden sand, lively atmosphere and family-friendly attractions. It’s a favourite destination for locals and day visitors from London. There are plenty of cafes along the beach and amusements arcades across the road. You can also visit the famous Margate Dreamland to try some vintage seaside rides, try rolley skating or listen to the concert in the evening.

• Location: Marine Terrace, Margate, CT9 1XJ; centrally located in Margate, between Westbrook and Botany Bay
• Type of beach: Sandy
• Water quality: Excellent
• Lifeguards: Yes, on duty daily during the summer season (usually May to September)
• Facilities: Cafés, restaurants, public toilets, showers, deck chair hire, children’s play area, amusement arcades, and accessible boardwalk
• Dog friendly: Dogs are not allowed on the main beach from 1 May to 30 September, 10am–6pm; allowed outside these times
• Parking: Paid parking available close to the beach, with several car parks and on-street options nearby

9. Sandgate Beach

Sandgate Beach in Kent is a peaceful shingle beach, popular for its relaxed vibe and lovely views across the English Channel. It’s a great spot for gentle walks, picnics, and watching boats drift by.

• Location: Sandgate Esplanade, Sandgate, CT20 3DZ; located between Folkestone and Hythe
• Type of beach: Pebble (shingle)
• Water quality: Excellent
• Lifeguards: No lifeguards on duty
• Facilities: Several cafés and restaurants along the seafront, public toilets available, but no showers or changing rooms
• Dog friendly: Dogs are welcome all year round, but owners should clean up after them
• Parking: Free and paid parking options are available close to the beach, with spaces along the seafront and nearby roads

10. Deal Beach

Deal Beach in Kent is a charming, traditional seaside spot known for its long stretch of pebbles, historic pier, and vibrant seafront. It’s perfect for peaceful walks, fishing, and soaking up the old-fashioned coastal atmosphere.

• Location: Beach Street, Deal, CT14 6HY; situated between Dover and Sandwich
• Type of beach: Pebble (shingle)
• Water quality: Water quality has recently been rated as poor, so check latest advice before swimming
• Lifeguards: No lifeguards on duty
• Facilities: Cafés, restaurants, public toilets, and a classic pier; no showers or changing rooms
• Dog friendly: Dogs are allowed on most parts of the beach all year, but some restrictions may apply near the pier during summer months
• Parking: Paid parking available close to the beach, with car parks and on-street options nearby

11. St Margaret’s Bay Beach

St Margaret’s Bay Beach is a picturesque shingle beach tucked beneath the dramatic white cliffs near Dover, offering stunning sea views and a peaceful escape from busier resorts. It’s a favourite for walkers, families, and anyone wanting to enjoy the unique setting at the foot of the cliffs.

• Location: Bay Hill, St Margaret’s Bay, Dover, CT15 6DX; located between Dover and Deal
• Type of beach: Shingle (pebble)
• Water quality: Excellent
• Lifeguards: No lifeguards on duty
• Facilities: Beach café, public toilets, and a slipway; no showers or changing rooms
• Dog friendly: Dogs are not allowed on the main part of the beach from 1 May to 30 September, 9am–8pm; allowed at other times
• Parking: Paid parking available close to the beach, with a small car park just above the bay and limited spaces

12. Stone Bay

Stone Bay in Kent is a lovely, quieter beach just north of Broadstairs, known for its clean sand, rock pools, and impressive chalk cliffs. It’s a great spot for families and those looking for a peaceful seaside escape away from the crowds.

• Location: Eastern Esplanade, Broadstairs, CT10 1ED; located in Broadstairs, between Viking Bay and Joss Bay
• Type of beach: Sandy
• Water quality: Excellent
• Lifeguards: Yes, present during the summer season (usually late May to early September)
• Facilities: Public toilets, seasonal café, and beach huts for hire; no showers or changing rooms
• Dog friendly: Dogs are not allowed on the main beach from 1 May to 30 September, 10am–6pm; allowed outside these times
• Parking: Free and paid parking options available nearby, with spaces along the road and in local car parks

13. Herne Bay Beach

Herne Bay Beach is a classic seaside spot with a long promenade, iconic pier, and charming shingle and sand shoreline. It’s a popular destination for families, offering plenty of traditional seaside fun and lovely sea views.

• Location: Central Parade, Herne Bay, CT6 5JQ; located between Whitstable and Reculver
• Type of beach: Shingle with some sandy areas, especially at low tide
• Water quality: Good
• Lifeguards: Yes, present during the summer season (typically from May to September)
• Facilities: Cafés, restaurants, ice cream kiosks, public toilets, children’s play areas, amusements, and a pier; no showers or changing rooms
• Dog friendly: Dogs are not allowed on the main beach from 1 May to 30 September, 10am–6pm; allowed outside these times
• Parking: Paid parking available close to the beach, with several car parks and on-street options nearby

14. Leysdown Beach

Leysdown Beach on the Isle of Sheppey is a classic seaside resort, well-loved for its family-friendly sandy shore and lively promenade. With amusements, arcades, and a relaxed holiday vibe, it’s a favourite spot for both locals and visitors.

• Location: The Promenade, Leysdown-on-Sea, ME12 4QB; situated at the eastern end of the Isle of Sheppey, between Shellness and Warden Bay
• Type of beach: Sandy with some shingle and groynes
• Water quality: Good
• Lifeguards: No lifeguards on duty
• Facilities: Cafés, fish and chip shops, arcades, amusements, public toilets, and a promenade; no showers or changing rooms
• Dog friendly: Dogs are not allowed on the main beach from 1 May to 30 September; allowed outside these times and on nearby dog-friendly areas
• Parking: Free and paid parking available close to the beach, with several car parks and roadside spaces nearby

15. West Bay

West Bay in Westgate-on-Sea is a peaceful sandy beach, perfect for families and those looking for a quieter spot along the Kent coast. Sheltered by chalk cliffs, it offers lovely views and plenty of space for relaxing and exploring rock pools at low tide.

• Location: Sea Road, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8QG; located between Margate and Birchington-on-Sea
• Type of beach: Sandy
• Water quality: Excellent
• Lifeguards: Yes, present daily during the summer season (usually mid-July to early September)
• Facilities: Café, public toilets, beach huts for hire, and a promenade; no showers or changing rooms
• Dog friendly: Dogs are not allowed on the main beach from 1 May to 30 September, 10am–6pm; allowed outside these times
• Parking: Free and paid parking available close to the beach, with spaces on Sea Road and nearby streets

16. Tankerton Beach

Tankerton Beach is a charming stretch of shingle and sand, famous for its colourful beach huts and peaceful grassy slopes overlooking the sea. It’s a favourite spot for gentle walks, swimming, and enjoying wide views of the Kent coast.

• Location: Marine Parade, Tankerton, Whitstable, CT5 2BE; situated just east of Whitstable, between Whitstable and Herne Bay
• Type of beach: Shingle with some sandy areas at low tide
• Water quality: Excellent
• Lifeguards: Yes, present during the busy summer months
• Facilities: Cafés, public toilets, beach huts, and a promenade; no showers or changing rooms
• Dog friendly: Dogs are not allowed on the main section of the beach from 1 May to 30 September, but there are marked dog-friendly areas nearby and dogs are welcome outside these dates
• Parking: Free and paid parking available close to the beach, with several car parks and on-street options nearby

17. Ramsgate Main Sands

Ramsgate Main Sands is a lively and spacious sandy beach right by Ramsgate’s historic harbour, loved for its classic seaside feel and family-friendly atmosphere. With plenty of amenities and a lovely promenade, it’s a great spot for a day by the sea.

• Location: Marine Esplanade, Ramsgate, CT11 8LS; centrally located in Ramsgate, between Broadstairs and Sandwich
• Type of beach: Sandy
• Water quality: Excellent
• Lifeguards: Yes, on duty daily during the summer season (typically late May to early September)
• Facilities: Cafés, restaurants, ice cream kiosks, public toilets, showers, deck chair hire, children’s play area, and amusements
• Dog friendly: Dogs are not allowed on the main beach from 1 May to 30 September, 10am–6pm; allowed outside these times
• Parking: Paid parking available close to the beach, with several car parks and on-street options nearby

18. Seasalter Beach

Seasalter Beach in Kent is a quiet, unspoilt stretch of coastline, perfect for peaceful walks, birdwatching, and enjoying the views across the estuary. It’s a popular spot for those seeking a more natural and tranquil seaside experience away from the crowds.

• Location: Faversham Road, Seasalter, Whitstable, CT5 4BP; located between Whitstable and Faversham
• Type of beach: Mainly shingle with some sand, especially at low tide
• Water quality: Good
• Lifeguards: No lifeguards on duty
• Facilities: Limited; a café nearby and some public toilets, but no showers or changing rooms
• Dog friendly: Dogs are allowed outside the main summer season; restrictions may apply from May to September
• Parking: Free and paid parking available close to the beach, with some spaces on nearby roads

19. Whistable Beach

Whitstable Beach Front is a charming and lively stretch of coastline, famous for its colourful beach huts, seafood shacks, and stunning sunsets. It’s a favourite destination for relaxed days by the sea, fresh oysters, and exploring the vibrant local scene.

• Location: Marine Parade/Beach Walk, Whitstable, CT5 1FB; located between Seasalter and Tankerton
• Type of beach: Mainly shingle with some sandy patches, especially at low tide
• Water quality: Good
• Lifeguards: Lifeguards are on call during the summer season
• Facilities: Cafés, seafood restaurants, pubs, public toilets, and beach huts; no showers or changing rooms
• Dog friendly: Dogs are not allowed on the main beach from 1 May to 30 September, but are welcome outside these dates and in nearby dog-friendly areas
• Parking: Paid parking available close to the beach, with car parks and some on-street options nearby

20. Swalecliffe Beach

Swalecliffe Beach is a peaceful spot on the Kent coast, known for its wide shingle shore, open views, and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great place for walking, birdwatching, and enjoying the quieter side of the seaside.

• Location: Herne Bay Road, Swalecliffe, Whitstable, CT5 2TA; situated between Whitstable and Herne Bay
• Type of beach: Shingle with some patches of sand at low tide
• Water quality: Good
• Lifeguards: No lifeguards on duty
• Facilities: Public toilets and a nearby café; no showers or changing rooms
• Dog friendly: Dogs are not allowed on the main beach from 1 May to 30 September, but welcome outside these dates
• Parking: Free and paid parking options close to the beach, with spaces along nearby roads and small car parks

21. Studd Hill Beach

Studd Hill Beach is a tranquil, lesser-known stretch of coastline near Herne Bay, perfect for peaceful walks, enjoying sunsets, and spotting local wildlife. Its natural setting and laid-back vibe make it a lovely escape from busier beaches.

• Location: Studd Hill, Herne Bay, CT6 8EP; located on the western edge of Herne Bay, between Herne Bay and Hampton-on-Sea
• Type of beach: Shingle (pebble) with some sandy patches at low tide
• Water quality: Good
• Lifeguards: No lifeguards on duty
• Facilities: Limited; no cafés, toilets, showers, or changing rooms directly on the beach, but some facilities can be found in nearby Herne Bay
• Dog friendly: Yes, dogs are welcome all year round
• Parking: Free parking available on nearby residential roads, with spaces usually easy to find except on busy days

22. Hampton Beach

Hampton Beach is a quiet and friendly seaside spot on the edge of Herne Bay, known for its gentle shingle shore, grassy banks, and peaceful views out to sea. It’s a great place for relaxed walks, picnics, and enjoying the fresh coastal air away from the crowds.

• Location: Hampton Pier Avenue, Herne Bay, CT6 8EJ; situated on the western side of Herne Bay, between Herne Bay town centre and Studd Hill
• Type of beach: Shingle with some sandy areas at low tide
• Water quality: Good
• Lifeguards: No lifeguards on duty
• Facilities: Café, public toilets, children’s play area, and a promenade; no showers or changing rooms
• Dog friendly: Dogs are not allowed on the main beach from 1 May to 30 September, but welcome outside these dates and in nearby dog-friendly areas
• Parking: Free and paid parking available close to the beach, with spaces along nearby roads and a small car park

This blog post was originally published on 4 June 2026 and last updated on 4 June 2026