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Kent, a beautiful county in the south east of England, boasts over 50 beaches. Although that may be a great factor if you’re planning a holiday there, the overwhelming choice can make it difficult to know where to go and what to expect. So we’ve put together some of the best sandy beaches in Kent for you!

1. Greatstone – Best Sandy Beaches in Kent

A sandy treasure, Greatstone beach boasts two miles of shoreline and has always been loved by holidaymakers in Kent. The sand is soft, the water is safe to swim in, and there are plenty of watersport opportunities, including windsurfing and kiteboarding, for those looking for something adventurous as well as relaxing.  There are also lots of rare plant species which grow on the dunes and support wildlife such as small animals and insects.

2. Dymchurch

Stretching for approximately three miles, Dymchurch beach is flat and sandy. Backing the beach is a sea wall, which was built in 2011 and cost £60 million, and is wide enough for you to walk all along the beach between Hythe Military Rifle Range and St.Mary’s Bay. Attracting locals and tourists during the summer, the beach is great for sunbathing, building sandcastles and swimming in the sea, however just make sure you check the tide as it can come in very quickly.

3. Minnis Bay

Located in Birchington, Minnis Bay is a great family beach which, at low tide, has plenty of sand space to walk upon, play ball games and of course, sunbathe! The beach also has good amenities such as free car parking, toilets and even a children’s play area, as well as a promenade with a picnic area, kiosk with ice creams and a café. As the above photo shows, you can also spot a stunning sunset on this beach!

4. Joss Bay – Best Sandy Beaches in Kent

Within the seaside town of Broadstairs, which has an impressive seven sand-filled beaches and bays, is Joss Bay. This sandy beach in Kent is sheltered by steep chalk cliffs and backs on to the North Foreland golf course. It is great for families as it has lots of facilities nearby, including a beach café, toilets, car parking and the loveliest idea- deck chair hire. Joss Bay is one of the most popular beaches and is also home to a surf school where they not only offer lessons but surf hire and a shop.

5. Camber Sands

Although this beach is technically along the Sussex coast it is worth the one hour drive from Kent to visit as it is covered in fine, golden sand and stretches for nearly five miles. At the western end it is wall to wall sand and is popular with those who enjoy beachcombing. Even though this beach is a beautiful sandy haven, it is said to be unspoilt and a great place to relax. Dogs are allowed between May and September but must be on a lead and restricted between Zones F and H.

6. Viking Bay

As the most popular beach in Broadstairs, Viking Bay encompasses a classic seaside resort with changing huts, a promenade and a small pier. As a previous winner of Blue Flag awards, the beach attracts many tourists, especially as there are many facilities nearby including beach side shops, cafés and restaurants. There is also a lifeguard service to ensure safe swimming.

7. Stone Bay

Another beach in Broadstairs, known for rock pooling and another great choice for families, is Stone Bay. Referred to as a ‘hidden gem’, this beach is much quieter than the buzzing Viking Bay, although if you were planning on bringing your dog along, be aware they are not allowed on the beach between 1st May and 30th September from 10am to 6pm.

8. Kingsgate Bay

Home to sea caves which are said to be some of the best in the UK and surrounded by high chalk cliffs, Kingsgate Bay is another gorgeous beach in Kent. Although there isn’t a lifeguard or any public toilets, dogs are allowed on the beach all year round and Joss Bay is only a 15 minute walk away. If you want to see a piece of history on the same day, visit Kingsgate Castle which gives amazing views, overlooking the southern end of the beach.

9. St Mildred’s Bay

Within easy walking distance of Margate, St Mildred’s Bay backs on to Westgate’s promenade with the sea wall following the cliff formations around the bay. Boasting a tidal bathing pool at the far end of the beach where you can swim among rock pools, beach chalets which are available to hire from Easter to September and cafés and restaurants nearby, it has plenty to offer. There is also a great variety of fun activities to do here such as crazy golf, sailing and windsurfing.

10. Sunny Sands

Although this beach can get busy in the summer months, Sunny Sands, located in Folkestone, next to the harbour and close to the centre of town, is a great spot for adults and children. There is lots to do and see here, including a bronze mermaid statue,  paddle boards and kayaks for hire and an ice cream shop nearby. However, at high tide the beach can vanish underwater so be careful to plan your day around this.

Why not PIN this post 10 of the Best Sandy Beaches in Kent