When it comes to beaches, the Blue Flag award is the internationally recognised ultimate stamp of approval when it comes to cleanliness, water quality and just overall splendidness - so we’re delighted to be flying so many flags high along Kent’s sweeping coastline! What's more, many of Kent's bays have been granted the Seaside Award, an award which marks the best beaches in the country.
Secluded spots, sandy bays and family-friendly beaches all make our shortlist, and there are even a few you might not know about yet (perfect for avoiding the summer crowds...). So plan your next coastal break right here - all you need to worry about is which beach to start with!
Remember to check before you travel with guidelines and advice from our friends Southeastern.
Blue Flag beaches
Tankerton
With its pretty painted beach huts and sensational sunsets, you’d better be prepared for some Instagram-worthy moments at Tankerton, just around the bend from Whitstable. Visit at low tide to reveal an expanse of sandy beach, rockpools made for crabbing, and a natural causeway which stretches right out into the sea. What's more, this fantastic beach has also won a Seaside Award! Enjoy Instagram-worthy views
Minnis Bay
An afternoon in the sun is calling at Minnis Bay, near Margate. While the sandy beach and outdoor play area make for a perfect day out for children, it’s also a favourite spot for water sports for the more adventurous. And because a day by the coast isn’t complete without an ice cream, the kiosk is just a short stroll away. As an ultimate seal of approval, Minnis Bay has also been granted the Seaside Award. Sea, sand and adventure
St Mildred’s Bay
This pristine cliff-lined bay is perfect for a full day at the coast, especially if you're planning to explore little Westgate On Sea or nearby Margate once the sun sets. Dust off your tennis skills, try your hand at putting, and cool off with a dip in the deep blue, before drying off and taking a jaunt into the heart of Westgate for dinner. Another Seaside Award winner, this is one Kent's very best bays. Be beside the seaside
Sheerness Beach
A favourite on the Isle of Sheppey, this sweeping bay rests next to a wide grassy esplanade, perfect for picnicking after a summer swim. And, with its pretty pebble beach (which has been granted the Seaside Award), you won’t need to worry about bringing half the beach back in your shoes! Swim at Sheerness
Joss Bay
Once a smuggler's paradise, it's time to make Joss Bay yours! Here you can take on the waves and learn a new skill at the surf school on the beach, or pull up a deck chair and take it easy on the sands, Seaside Award winning sands at that. With the sun high in the sky, and picturesque Broadstairs around the corner, a visit to this glorious bay is sure to tempt you in for a swim. Surf’s up
Botany Bay
Take one look at Botany Bay and you’ll understand why it’s been the destination for many a photographer. Chalk stacks and white cliffs are the focal point for this secluded gem, while the Seaside Award-wining sandy bay gently slopes towards turquoise water for a truly tranquil swim. A real beauty on the Thanet coast, this one gets pretty busy in the summer - but the locals know it's just as beautiful on a crisp autumn day, or in the winter sun too! Get Snap Happy!
Seaside Awards
Awarded for being the best beaches in England, we're proud to have so many Kent Seaside Award Winners in Kent!
Minster Leas Beach
Sensational views are par for the course on this long sand and shingle beach. Resting on the Isle of Sheppey, Minster Leas Beach is perfect for year-round coasting, backing on to a wide grassy promenade for brisk autumn walks, and the town of Minster for a retreat to a café for an ice cream run in the height of summer! Meander in Minster
Margate Main Sands
A gentle sweep of sandy bay resting on the edge of everyone's favourite seaside town, it's no surprise Margate Main Sands makes our list. Relax on the beach, build sandcastles or spend your afternoon taking in the views from a quirky little coastal café. Sandcastles in the sun
Image by Houghton/houghoughtonphotos2011
Stone Bay
Just next to vibrant Broadstairs town, this sandy shore offers a glorious escape from the hustle and bustle of city living. Sheltered sands edged by impressive white cliffs give Stone Bay the air of a secret bay, without having to stray too far away from the convenience of cafes, restaurants and shops in Broadstairs. Step onto Stone Bay
Herne Bay Central
A two mile stretch of bay with all the traditional seaside favourites, this is a true icon of a beach in Kent. Enjoy independent cafes and shops, tuck into fish and chips and candy floss, or wander along to the famous Herne Bay Pier - one of just two in Kent!
Dymchurch
With miles of sandy beach to enjoy, it's no wonder Dymchurch made the list! A favourite among swimmers, kite surfers and paddlers alike, this beach is made for sunny days spent with family and friends. The town itself is another seaside classic, with amusements and the Kentish gem that is the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway adding the cherry on top.
Leysdown
Set on the blue gem that is The Isle of Sheppey, beach-seekers have been coming to Leysdown for a slice of sun and sea for years. Bordered by a promenade, this family friendly beach was made for seaside fun. Enjoy wide open views to the Coastal Park beyond, or treat yourselves with a visit to the independent shops and arcades.
Louisa Bay
A quiet and secluded bay just around the corner from Viking Bay, Louisa Bay is a real hidden gem. Grab a coffee and enjoy the view from the cafe on the promenade, or grab the bucket for a spot of rock-pooling in the shallows. With colourful beach huts line the bay, it's a real picture-perfect spot.
Walpole Bay
This sandy bay is the perfect spot for a family afternoon by the coast. With a tidal pool, rock pools and so much sand for castle building, little ones will love this pretty bay. Once you've brushed the sand off your toes, the nearby mini golf and cafe are calling.
Westbrook Bay
As a designated spot for water skiing, Westbrook is the place for thrill-seekers. What's more, it's another sandy bay, so little ones will love it too. Enjoy tennis or bowls, or test out your skills at Strokes adventure golf course along the promenade for a full day of active fun.
Viking Bay
Magnificent, sweeping and the center of Charles Dickens' favourite holiday spot, Viking Bay in Broadstairs is a horseshoe-shaped sandy bay with its very own boardwalk, cliff-top promenade and views made for Instagram. Hire a deckchair, test out your skills at the surf school and enjoy this glorious beach-lovers dream.
Ramsgate Main Sands
What's that, another sandy beach? We really are spoiling you here in Kent. Set right next to the Royal Harbour, the only one in the UK, might we add, Ramsgate's beach boasts amusements, arcades and plenty of beach-side restaurants and bars for a little alfresco dining.
West Bay
Just down the road from Margate, West Bay in Westgate-on-Sea is a beautiful tidal bay that's just made for sandcastle building and summer fun. Here you'll find rock pools for exploring and of course a cafe so you can enjoy ice creams on the beach.
