The Kent coastline is home to some of the best seaside destinations in the South. We often like to escape for a day to the seaside. There are so many Kent Coastal Towns within easy reach of London. With direct trains running out of St Pancras, Charing Cross and Kings Cross. It makes these beautiful beaches a popular choice in the Summer season. But many are worth a visit all year round. Here are our favourite seaside towns in Kent.
The Best Kent Coastal Towns
If you think any other towns or villages should be included in this best Kent coastal towns article. Then please let me know in the comments below and I will add them in.
Whitstable
We visited Whistable for the first time in Twixmas and it was the perfect seaside break. We got so lucky with the weather with blue skies the whole time we were there. Whitstable is one of the more popular Kent seaside towns and is a lovely location to visit for the day or spend a few days for a mini break. With a shingle beach looking out onto the Thames Estuary. It is a great spot for the family to enjoy some time by the seaside. You can also catch fishing trips and sightseeing boat trips from the harbour.
Famous for its oysters, the picturesque seaside town comes complete with colourful beach huts and a working harbour. Which is good for a wander, hosts a little market in wooden huts and is a great place to pick up some fresh fish for dinner. Or you can sample the famous Whitstable oysters in the local restaurants. Which are renowned for their exceptional quality and unique flavour. If you plan on visiting during the late Summer then keep an eye out for the Whitstable Rocks Oyster Festival that normally runs over a weekend in September. Normally there are lots of activities going on over the weekend, including live music, parades, seafood tastings, and family-friendly entertainment
Explore the quaint shops and art galleries along Harbour Street. Visit Whitstable Castle and Gardens, and then continue along the coast to the beach huts. And for a chance to see ‘The Street’ which is a shingle road that emerges during low tide. If you are staying for longer then you could also take a day trip to Canterbury or the Blean Woods National Nature Reserve.
Broadstairs
If you are looking for a quintessential British seaside experience, then Broadstairs is for you. Probably the most popular of the Kent coastal towns. Known for its sandy beaches, stunning cliffside views, and charming old town with narrow winding streets. It is between more well-known seaside towns such as Ramsgate and Margate and is often overlooked. Making it the perfect option if you want a beautiful seaside town that isn’t so crowded. Broadstairs also serves as a good base if you want to explore the other Kent coastal towns.
The main attraction is Viking Bay, a beautiful sandy beach with picturesque white cliffs and a vibrant seafront promenade. Having been awarded a blue flag the sandy beach is sheltered, offering a variety of water sports and has been voted one of the best on the South East Coast. There are several scenic coastal paths with stunning views of the English Channel and the surrounding coastline. Or you can take a boat trip or a sea kayaking excursion discovering hidden coves, sea caves, and marine wildlife along the way.
If you are looking for a bit of culture then you can explore Bleak House – Dickens House Museum The historic building that inspired Charles Dickens now houses a museum dedicated to the author. It is normally open from Easter through to the end of October half-term. Alternatively head to the Crampton Tower Museum, which showcases the history of Broadstairs and its other famous residents.
Broadstairs also hosts the annual Folk Week, a popular music festival that runs from the 9-16th of August in 2024. The festival features concerts, workshops, and traditional dance events.
Margate
Possibly one of the most well-known of the Kent seaside towns. It is located on the North Kent coast Margate is famous for Chas and Dave and Delboy and Rodney, but these days Margate has undergone a revival. In recent years the town has become an artistic and cultural hub. It is home to the Turner Contemporary Art Gallery which is not only free but offers an ever-changing range of exhibitions.
In the warmer months, the amusement park Dreamland offers vintage rides, roller coasters, and entertainment options for all ages. In the colder months, it acts as an inside entertainment venue with live music and events. For something completely different visit the Shell Grotto for underground passageways adorned with seashell mosaics. I have never seen anything like it.
Margate Museum is housed in a Grade II listed building in the heart of Margate Old Town. And is a unique example of a Victorian Police Station and Magistrates Court displaying an eclectic history of the seaside town of Margate over the past 5,500 years.
There are several sandy beaches, Main Sands is one of the best on the South East coast. A large wide expanse of sand where families congregate on warm and sunny days. Perfect for making sandcastles and taking a dip in the sea. The Margate Harbour Arm dates back to 1815 and offers panoramic views of the coastline with its lighthouse which was rebuilt in 1955. With eateries right next to the sea, it is a great spot for lunch. Margate’s old town has many independent shops to browse.
If you have a car then you may also want to consider a visit to the Walpole Bay Tidal Pool or Botany Bay with its stunning chalk stacks. It is also a great place to look for fossils and explore rock pools.
Deal
With its historic charm and a blend of Georgian and Victorian architecture, Deal is a delightful Kent coastal town. It boasts all of the typical things you would expect from one of the best Kent coast towns, only on a smaller scale. It won’t get as busy as some of the other suggestions, making it perfect for families. Deal Pier, is one of the UK’s most iconic and historic seaside piers and the only intact pier in Kent. Stretches out into the English Channel.
The town’s pebble beach, a picturesque pier that has recently undergone a huge upgrade, and a vibrant high street with independent shops and eateries make it a popular destination. You can explore the English Heritage site of Deal Castle. A striking Tudor artillery fort built during the reign of Henry VIII. The castle’s distinctive circular design and formidable defences provide a captivating glimpse into England’s military past. You can explore the castle’s interior, climb its battlements, and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.
Just a little further along the coast, there is also another English Heritage site – Walmer Castle and Gardens. For something completely different you can visit the Timeball Museum on the seafront which still has a functioning timeball. This historically served as a vital timekeeping device for ships and provides insights into Deal’s maritime legacy.
Despite it being a small town there are still a lot of bars, restaurants and pubs to enjoy. As well as a hamlet of local boutiques and shops in Middle Street. The old town has many distinctive Georgian and Victorian buildings. It doesn’t seem to be as commercialised as some of the other locations mentioned, giving it that charm and beauty. From Deal, you can take a train or car to the nearby town of Sandwich, with its historic charm, medieval architecture and the sweeping Sandwich Bay.
Herne Bay
This Kent coastal town is known for its long promenade, Herne Bay offers a sandy beach, colourful beach huts, and traditional seaside attractions. It is also one of the best places to go crabbing in Kent. We enjoyed visiting the historic Herne Bay Pier and the central beach with its kid’s playgrounds. A great spot to enjoy some fish and chips or ice cream as the kids play.
The Herne Bay Festival generally runs from the end of July through to the end of August. Over the five-week programme of the festival, there are lots of events including a carnival, jazz festival, live music, art exhibitions, family-friendly activities and fireworks. The Seaside Museum showcases a diverse array of exhibits, offering insights into the town’s local heritage and maritime traditions.
This is a really scenic area of the Kent coast and is a great option if you are looking for one of the best beaches in Kent. Perfect for families to enjoy all of the usual seaside activities. Plenty of spots for some food and drinks and lots of fun to be had at the amusement park and along the promenade. Herne Bay Memorial Park is situated in the heart of the town. It has formal planted gardens, a lake, a play area and several sporting facilities. The lake is large and although not available for fishing, it is used for model boats and is home to lots of ducks who are always keen to be fed.
For a day trip, there is the English Heritage site of Reculver Towers and Roman Fort. An ancient site with historic ruins, coastal walks, and panoramic views of the coastline.
Folkestone
Situated on the southeastern coast of Kent, Folkestone is probably best known as the home of the Eurotunnel. However, it also boasts a charming harbour, a sandy beach, and the artistic quarter of Creative Folkestone. Which is the United Kingdom’s largest urban outdoor exhibition of contemporary art. You can also wander through the Creative Quarter, a vibrant and eclectic area filled with independent shops, art galleries, and creative studios.
The town is also known for the scenic Lower Leas Coastal Park. A linear park between Folkestone and Sandgate, with wildlife such as migrating birds and insects thrive in the area and the park contains an under cliff area with a unique microclimate attracting wildlife rarely found in the United Kingdom.
Take a journey on the charming Leas Lift, a historic funicular railway that provides a scenic and convenient link between the seafront and the clifftop promenade. The town’s iconic Leas Promenade offers breathtaking panoramic views of the English Channel. With its well-manicured gardens, inviting benches, and refreshing sea breezes. The Folkestone Harbour Arm, is a vibrant hub of activity, featuring a variety of food and drink outlets, live music, art installations, and stunning views of the sea.
The Sunny Sands beach itself has plenty for families to enjoy, with a sandy beach and shallow waters. The harbour gives you plenty of opportunity to go boat spotting, and the town boasts some of the best seafood restaurants in Kent. Folkestone Museum takes you on a journey through the history of Folkestone. From its origins as a humble coastal community, through to its heyday as a fashionable seaside resort and beyond.
Dover
While Dover might not be a town you may associate with a seaside visit, thanks to its busy port it is still a great town to visit on the coast of Kent. You can enjoy the harbour and port and have a look at all the larger ships and boats. There is a small stretch of beach where you can enjoy paddling and beach activities. However if you are specifically visiting a town for the beach, then Dover might not be your first choice.
But Dover has a lot to offer. Including the English Heritage site of Dover Castle. A historic fortress that offers a fascinating journey through centuries of military history from medieval royal courts to World War II military operations. You can explore the castle’s interior, including the Great Tower and medieval tunnels, with panoramic views of the English Channel. When we visited we spent a whole day exploring everything it has to offer. in the town centre, there is Dover Museum, which has a diverse collection of exhibits, including the Dover Bronze Age Boat. Visit the National Trust South Foreland Lighthouse, a historic Victorian lighthouse that offers panoramic views of the coastline. In a tour, you can learn about the evolution of maritime navigation and lighthouse technology.
If you have vehicle mad kids then a trip to the Dover Transport Museum is sure to impress. Where you can see a unique collection of vintage vehicles, including buses, cars, and motorcycles. Or visit the Roman Painted House. Which was found by the Kent Archaeological Society and features well-preserved Roman murals.
You can enjoy those famous white cliffs of Dover, a stunning natural landmark with some of the best coastal walks around. The White Cliffs hold a special place in the town’s identity and have been celebrated in literature, art, and popular culture. On a clear day, when close to the harbour, you can also get some incredible views of France from Western Heights. This is still a fabulous spot for a day trip with plenty of bars, amusement arcades, chip shops, and restaurants in the town.
Ramsgate
Ramsgate is home to one of the largest marinas on the South Coast. So if you do have a yacht to dock, then this is the spot. But when we are not dreaming about yachts, it is still the perfect seaside town in Kent. The town’s historic Royal Harbour stands as a focal point of Ramsgate’s maritime identity as a major port. Featuring a picturesque marina and vibrant waterfront promenades. Lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and shops, the harbour area provides a delightful setting to wander, al fresco dining, and opportunities to admire the array of yachts and fishing boats that dot the harbour. It is also home to Ramsgate Maritime Museum, featuring exhibits on maritime history, shipwrecks, and the town’s lifeboat service.
A busier option and more well-known than some of the other Kent Coastal Towns suggested in this post. It has beautiful sandy beaches, the most popular is Ramsgate Main Sands beach. A family-friendly stretch of coastline with golden sands, shallow waters, and traditional seaside amenities. It has been awarded a blue flag and so ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying recreational beach activities. The West Cliff promenade is well worth a visit, here you can pick up one of several West Cliff walks.
When we visited we explored the Ramsgate Tunnels, a network of underground passageways that served as air-raid shelters during the Second World War. You can only go into the tunnels on a guided tour but it was absolutely fascinating and I would encourage everyone to visit. There is also the newly refurbished RAF Manston History Museum. Which features the town’s aviation heritage. For something completely different visit The Micro Museum. A unique attraction showcasing the evolution of home computers and video games. A great option for teens, offering interactive displays and nostalgic insights into the world of retro technology.
Westgate-on-sea
This is one of those underrated Kent seaside towns. The quiet seaside town has a beautiful sandy beach called West Bay Beach. Perfect for a beach day spent building sandcastles and enjoying the sea views. Next door is St. Mildred’s Bay Beach, with its gentle waves and pristine sands. Both beaches offer lots of fun for families and amusements to keep the kids occupied on the promenade.
It is one of the smaller Kent seaside towns, but it is perfect for families or couples looking for something less overwhelming than some of the other seaside towns suggested. Although this does mean there are fewer things to do. The Victorian Carlton Cinema offers a nostalgic movie-going experience, compared to the larger movie chains. And a good option if the weather is not playing ball. Discover the local charm of the village with a visit to quaint shops, including gift and speciality stores.
If you are looking for something a bit more liver then you can take a short trip to the nearby town of Margate which is around 2.6 miles away. Close enough to walk, or catch the bus for tired legs on the return journey. This allows you to balance the quietness of the traditional coastal town with all that Margate has to offer.
Hythe
Hythe’s history dates back centuries, and the town’s legacy as one of the Ancient Cinque Ports. The Royal Military Canal, a monumental feat of 19th-century engineering, stands as a testament to the town’s strategic significance and provides a scenic backdrop for leisurely walks and boat trips.
The mainly pebble beach is approximately midway between Folkestone and Dymchurch and would make a good day trip from either location. The high street is full of small businesses with local artists and produce being sold. The long seafront has plenty for families. You can enjoy all of the usual beach activities or even fly a kite on a particularly windy day. The promenade has shops, bars, and restaurants. Ideal for a quieter Kent coastal town experience.
Just a mile from Hythe you have the small village of Saltwood which is home to Saltwood Castle and Brockhill Country Park. A little further afield is Port Lympne Wild Animal Park. We have visited several times, not only can you go on a safari but they also have the most amazing Gorilla enclosure. With the option to eat in the manor house and stay in one of the glamping tents, it is a destination in its own right.
For railway enthusiasts and nature lovers, the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway offers a delightful journey through the town’s coastal landscapes. We took the journey a couple of years ago and really enjoyed the experience. The views were stunning.
Dymchurch and St Mary’s Bay
Two of the lesser-known suggestions are these two separate Kent seaside towns on Romney Marsh. But there is only a mile walk between St Mary’s Bay and Dymchurch. them so you can easily do that along the seafront and experience these two smaller, but still delightful, Kent seaside towns. This coast is well-known for kite flying as the wind and breeze are a little stronger than in some other locations. There are many seaside shops selling them if you do need to buy one. The kids will love this old-school activity. Dymchurch has expansive golden beaches.
In Dymchurch itself, the amusement park is free to visit. Where you only pay for the rides, games and attractions you chose. There is also various bars, a micro pub and cafes will satisfy any rock/candy floss cravings. Martello Tower No. 24 in Dymchurch High Street was one of 74 towers built along the south coast between 1805 and 1812 to resist the threatened French invasion. Open to the public at the weekends from Easter to the end of October half term.
There are plenty of places to buy everything you need for a day by the sea and lots of locations to enjoy some fish and chips once you are done. These two areas may not be as busy, but they are still well worth adding to your list and are perfect for a day trip or weekend. As above you can catch the railway down to Dungeness Beach which is like visiting the end of the world.
Dungeness
This is the most southern point of Kent so you can often think that you have reached the end of the world with far-reaching views. It definitely felt like that when we visited with a vast expanse of open space. And although there is not a huge amount to do it is an experience not to miss. If you catch the railway down then you will only have about forty minutes to explore. The Dungeness National Nature Reserve is known for its striking beauty offering a serene setting for nature lovers and photographers.
Unless you look in the other direction to Dungeness Power Station Visitor Center. Discover the fascinating history and technology behind the nuclear power station. If this is not your thing then instead you can visit Dungeness Old Lighthouse. At certain times of the year, you can climb the historic lighthouse for panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and the English Channel.
This is a smaller fishing town so you may not find the usual abundance of commercialisation as you would in some of the other suggested Kent coast towns. But it is still one worthy to add to the list as it is very picturesque. It can often feel like this location is abandoned with some of the abandoned fishing boats on the beachfront. There are still places to eat such as the Snack Shack. Where you can have locally caught fish and shellfish. Although it is worth checking opening times before visiting.
Reculver
Reculver is a village and coastal resort about three miles east of Herne Bay on the north coast of Kent. One of the smaller villages on the Kent Coast. There are a number of different walks you can enjoy. The one from Reculver to Herne Bay will take you along the Saxon Shore Trail which gives stunning views of the coastline. It takes around an hour and a half. A slightly shorter walk is the Reculver to Beltinge Coastal Walk which will take around an hour.
Of course, you have Reculver Towers and Roman Fort to explore as mentioned above. Known locally as the Twin Sisters, they are the remnants of a medieval church built within the grounds of a Roman Fort. Close by is Reculver Bay a peaceful small shingle beach providing a scenic setting for picnics. For tide times and to keep up to date with what is going on in the area. Visit the Reculver Visitor Centre. Offering exhibits and information about the region’s archaeological finds so great for history buffs. They also offer information on the Coastal Park which has diverse coastal flora, wildlife habitats, and opportunities for nature walks and bird watching.
Do you think I am missing any Kent Coastal Towns that deserve a mention? Perhaps you have visited some Kent seaside towns on holiday that deserves a mention? If you are looking for something on the border with East Sussex, then both Camber Sands and Rye are close by.
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