Broadstairs Beaches
The 7 Bays of Broadstairs
There are 7 beautiful beaches in Broadstairs, each with their own individual characteristics and charm. Some are better for surfing, some are a stones throw from delicious fish and chips and others will offer you a more peaceful vibe.
Let's explore the bays!
Botany Bay
We'll begin our journey furthest afield from our self catering apartments, with Botany Bay, the closest beach to Margate.
The beach's main feature are the glorious Botany Bay chalk stacks,
which many a photographer will snap during golden hour!
Parking can get a little tricky at times, so if you're driving this way, we suggest you get there early or grab a taxi.
The beach is patrolled by life guards during the peak season and has some fantastic local pubs.
Kingsgate Bay
Walking through from Botany you'll be greeted with the glorious Kingsgate arch and bay. Staring straight at you as you turn the corner is Kingsgate Castle and for the curious among you, look up and see if you can spot the smuggler's caves!
If you're looking for a pit stop for drink or a bite to eat, climb the steps up to a local favourite The Captain Digby!
Sit with at the top of the cliffs and watch the waves roll in. If you're dining, there is also free parking to the rear.
Joss Bay
If you're into surfing and there's some swell on the way, Joss Bay is the beach to head to! But if it's flat, you could always hire out a stand up paddle board from Joss Bay Surf School and explore the coastline from a different perspective!
There's not a lot in ways of pubs on near this beach, but there are some great cafés and plenty of parking (paid) which is why it's on of the most popular beaches for families and tours!
Stone Bay
We're now within walking distance of Broadstairs Apartments! Stone Bay is The Blue Flag beach of Broadstairs (2022) and the favourite of the locals.
The promenade is lined with hundreds of beach huts, yet still has more space generally to pitch up on.
If you're early enough, you can grab a free parking space on Eastern Esplanade or other surround roads.
There's a café on the beach, but you're close enough to the heart of Broadstairs that you can carry your Fish & Chips from the shop to your spot and they'll still be hot!
Viking Bay
The busiest bay of Broadstairs, and for good reason!
Viking Bay is surrounded by an abundance of popular bars, Michelin guide restaurants and filled with fun activities.
The Kent Surf School runs stand up padding boarding and surfing lessons every day in the peak season and also rent out kayaks too!
This beach can get pretty packed, but with the beautiful harbour and facilities within a stone's throw, there's no secret to why it's the most popular beach for tourists...after all, you can get from London Kings Cross to Broadstairs in 1 hr 15 minutes!
Louisa Bay
We're now moving away from the centre of Broadstairs and heading into the direction of neighbouring Ramsgate.
There's a small café on the beach, but you'll usually find this is a little quieter and, depending on the direction, you can get a little shelter from the wind.
At the top of the hill leading to Louisa Bay you'll find the Lillyputt Mini Golf, which has been at the same site for over 100 years!
Dumpton Gap
The most southerly of the Broadstairs Bay is Dumpton Gap. If you're carrying on your walk into Ramsgate, then you're less than 20 minutes away.! just be sure to check the tide times, as tourists have regularly been known to get soggy shoes.
This is the only beach that is dog friendly (with no restrictions) all year round.
Here's a helpful local council page that outlines the rules for you and your pooches.
Check out out Dog Friendly Garden Apartment!