Top 10 Beaches in Kent
Kent’s glorious beaches have recently been credited with an astonishing nine Blue
Flag awards. Whether you're after traditional family entertainment, adrenaline watersports
or somewhere to chill out, Kent's varied coastline has just the beach or resort for
you.
1. Botany Bay, Broadstairs
Botany Bay, one of Broadstairs' quieter and more secluded sandy bays, can leave you
feeling a millon miles from anywhere - absolute bliss when you want to laze around
and recharge your batteries! Nearby Joss Bay is more rural than Botany and offers
great surfing opportunities.
2. Whitstable
Choose to swim, stroll or sit and enjoy the stunning sunsets on this popular beach.
Looking out to sea from Whitstable, the vista feeds the imagination and takes visitors
back to another age. And fresh breezes and a taste of salt in the air whet the appetite
for more of the town's magic.
3. Deal
Many agree that Deal is a special place and the prettiest seaside town in Kent. Henry
VIII liked it so much he built three castles here. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along
the unspoilt promenade and the newly restored Pier. Walk a little further and tell
the time maritime style at the Timeball Tower. Try the wonderful restaurants and
pubs where you can enjoy free, locally caught fish.
4. Joss Bay, Broadstairs
A popular sandy bay approximately 200 meters long. The beach is home to Joss Bay
Surf School, which provides professional and enthusiastic surf lessons for ages ranging
from 8 all the way through to 80.
5. Main Sands, Margate
Sandy and approximately 200 meters long with promenade and boardwalks. Tidal bathing
pool, donkey rides and children's rides. A very popular resort bay just a couple
of minutes from Margate train station and the town.
6. Dymchurch
The sandy beach is the jewel in the Dymchurch crown. Stretching for miles toward
Dungeness to the west and Folkestone to the east it is washed completely by the tide
twice daily to leave a magnificent gently sloping strip of sand almost a 1/4 mile
wide at low tide. This expanse of sand is home to Donkey Rides, Kite Surfers, Sandcastle
Builders and those who like to relax.
7. Folkestone
Folkestone has an incredible beach that stretches along the English Channel towards
the west. It can be easily reached from the town centre by taking a short trip on
a traditional lift or by hiking down a short footpath. Both France and Dungeness
are visible on a clear day from the shore.
8. St Margaret’s Bay
St Margaret's Bay is a cove between Dover and Deal. It is made up of unusual large,
black and gray stones, and boasts incredible rock pools when the tide is out. Walks
along the cliffs give amazing views, with France on the horizon, and you'd be well
advised to reward yourself after a long walk with a meal in the award winning Coastguard
restaurant by the beach.
9. Tankerton Slopes, Herne Bay
Where the town of 'Tankerton' meets Whitstable is an area known as Tankerton Slopes.
As the name suggests, the grass slopes down towards the beach and the path which
leads right along the coast, to neighbouring towns. This is a great location for
people walk dogs or ride their bikes. The slopes are where everyone gathers to watch
the regatta's fireworks display, the community fun day is also held here, and it's
right next to Whitstable's largest manor house, which is known variously as 'Whitstable
Castle'.
10. Dungeness
Dungeness is one of the most bizarre places you can visit in Kent. Overlooked by
the massive power station, the beach has a strange aura that only adds to its attraction.
As with many beaches in Kent it's pebbly, but it's well worth a visit just to soak
in the lonely atmosphere, even if you don't fancy a swim. Make sure you take your
camera - Dungeness is packed full of potential arty shots.