
Are you planning any staycation this summer?
Kent is known as the garden of England but you can find many sandy beaches that are great for swimming, sunbathing, tranquil strolls and water-sports activities like surfing. Kent is home to more than 50 beaches in total.
Thanet, the most Southeastern tip of Kent boasts of an impressive 15 sandy beaches and bays, easily accessible from London by train or by road which makes it a great choice for a day trip or weekend away from the city.

If you are planning on catching the train from London, there’s a high-speed train service from London St Pancras International Station to Ramsgate, Broadstairs, and Margate which means that travelling from the capital is quick and easy. Journey times are approximately 75 minutes to Ramsgate, 85 minutes to Broadstairs and 90 minutes to Margate.
During my time living by the coastline, I explored the history, and the beaches and even spontaneously took the ferry from a nearby port to France with a bunch of friends for a weekend (check my Paris highlights on Instagram). I was blessed to live a walking distance of a beach.
A lot of people know of the popular Margate beach but sometimes that beach can get overcrowded. There are a lot more beautiful hidden gems that are close by.
Here are my top 5 beaches to explore in this area:
1.Botany Bay Beach In Kent
This secluded beach offers stunning views of white chalk cliffs. Watch the most stunning sunset views overlooking the chalk stacks.

Source: Visit Southeast England
2. Joss Bay Beach In Kent
Joss bay is a surfers paradise and a short drive away from Botany Bay. It’s a great beach for surfing and stand up paddleboard. Joss Bay Surf School offers private, family and group Surf and stand up paddleboard lessons.
3. Kingsgate Bay Beach In Kent
It’s by a sandy cove and edged by white chalk cliffs and sea caves. Enjoy a classic fish and chips lunch with clifftop views and a children’s play area at the award-winning family pub-restaurant, Captin Digby.
4. Viking Bay Beach In Kent
This sandy horseshoe-shaped beach is the most popular with a promenade and a pier. Stop by Morelli’s ice cream parlour and treat yourself to the best ice cream in Broadstairs.
5. Ramsgate Main Sands Beach In Kent
A popular sandy beach with a promenade. You’ll find plenty of restaurants and cafes here. Fun fact: It’s a short walk to the biggest Wetherspoons in the UK.

All of these beaches are suitable for swimming too. If you are looking for more destinations to explore in the UK, check out Jess’ Great British staycation guide featuring me and many travel bloggers.
Are you planning on visiting any beaches this summer?
Thinking of exploring more of England? Read my guide to the best holiday accommodation in North Devon.
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I’m loving the idea of Botany Bay. Kent is a very doable day trip. Great post, Joy!
Author
Yesss Botany Bay is soo lovely! It reminds me of the Algarve in Portugal! Definitely a doable day trip! 👌🏾 I’ve seen a couple of bloggers go these in the last 2 weeks to do summer photoshots 😂 Thanks for reading 🥰
There’s so much beauty in the UK to explore – thanks for sharing this.
Author
Yeah there really is! Thanks for reading Cherryl 💛