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There are many spectacular beaches in Kent. These beaches have won honours for their cleanliness, safety, water quality, and other attributes.
Blue Flag Award
One of the most well-known awards in the world, awarded in 51 countries, is the Blue Flag. This prestigious international award is given to beaches, marinas, and vessels. To be eligible for the Blue Flag, many strict environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility requirements must be fulfilled and upheld.
Criteria
- It is necessary to show information about the Blue Flag Program.
- Beachgoers must be provided and encouraged to participate in environmental education programs.
- The quality of the bathing water must be indicated.
- It is necessary to convey information about regional ecosystems, natural features, and cultural landmarks.
- There needs to be a beach map showing the various amenities.
- It is necessary to post a code of conduct that takes into account the relevant laws and/or rules controlling how the beach and its environs are used.
- The frequency and water quality sampling standards must be completely met by the beach.
- The beach needs to meet all water quality analysis standards and regulations.
- The beach area cannot be impacted by discharges linked to sewage, waste water, or industry.
- The microbiological parameters intestinal enterococci (streptococci) and Escherichia coli (faecal coli bacteria) must meet the beach’s Blue Flag standards.
- The beach needs to meet the physical standards set out by Blue Flag.
- A beach management committee needs to be formed by the local government or beach operator.
- All laws and/or rules pertaining to the site and operation of the beach must be followed by the local government or beach operator.
- It is necessary for managing sensitive places.
- The beach needs to be tidy.
- Natural debris or algae must be left on the beach.
- There must be a sufficient number of waste bins or containers at the beach, and they must be maintained regularly.
- There must be facilities at the beach for the sorting of recyclable garbage.
- There must be a sufficient quantity of restrooms or toilets.
- The restrooms or toilets need to be maintained clean.
- Controlled sewage disposal is required for the restrooms.
- Unauthorised camping, driving, and beach dumping are prohibited.
- There must be tight restrictions on dogs and other household pets’ access to the beach.
- Every facility and piece of beach equipment needs to be kept up to date.
- Monitoring is necessary for freshwater and marine vulnerable ecosystems (such as seagrass beds or coral reefs) close to the shore.
- The coastal area should encourage the use of sustainable modes of transportation.
- It is necessary to put in place suitable public safety control measures.
- There must be first aid supplies on the beach.
- There must be emergency measures in place to address the threats of pollution.
- To avoid disputes and mishaps, the beach’s many users and purposes need to be managed.
- The public must have free access to the beach, and safety precautions must be taken to safeguard beachgoers.
- There should be a drinking water source at the beach.
- Each locality must provide at least one Blue Flag beach with amenities and access for people with physical disabilities.
Blue Flag Award 2025 beaches in Kent include Margate Mains Sands, Botany Bay, Joss Bay, Minnis Bay, St Mildred’s Bay, Ramsgate Main Sands, Tankerton Beach, and Sheerness Beach.
Seaside Award
The Seaside Awards recognise the excellence and diversity of England’s coastline by recognising the country’s top beaches.
Criteria
- At the beach, information on the Seaside Award must be posted.
- Information on the quality of the bathing water must be shown, if appropriate.
- There needs to be a beach map showing the various amenities.
- There should be a code of behaviour posted that reflects the relevant regulations controlling how people utilise the beach and its environs.
- The beach must adhere completely to the frequency and water quality sample regulations.
- The beach needs to meet all water quality analysis norms and regulations.
- The beach region shouldn’t be impacted by any sewage, waste water, or industrial discharges.
- According to the Bathing Water Directive, the water quality in authorised bathing waters from 2016 shall be rated as “sufficient” or better.
- It is not permissible to advertise water-based sports like swimming, surfing, etc. on beaches where people do not bathe.
- A beach management committee should be formed by the local government or beach operator.
- All rules about the placement and operation of the beach must be followed by the local government or beach operator.
- The beach needs to be tidy.
- Except in some cases, natural trash or algae flora should be left on the beach.
- Bins must be accessible at the beach and emptied regularly.
- There should be facilities at the beach for the sorting of recyclable garbage.
- Toilet facilities should be available if suitable.
- If restrooms are available, they must be maintained clean and include a regulated sewage disposal system.
- Unauthorised camping, driving, and trash disposal on the beach are prohibited.
- Dogs are not permitted in the designated area of resort-style beaches during the swimming season.
- Before an award may be given, a clear dog management policy must be in place if there isn’t a dog prohibition in effect during the bathing season.
- Every facility and piece of beach equipment needs to be kept up to date.
- The beach must have a sufficient number of lifeguards and/or lifesaving supplies, if applicable.
- If necessary, first aid supplies need to be on hand at the beach.
- There must be emergency measures in place to address the threats of pollution.
- A current risk assessment of the beach should be conducted, and any recommendations should be implemented.
Seaside Award 2025 beaches in Kent include Botany Bay, Joss Bay, Minnis Bay, St Mildred’s Bay, Tankerton Beach, Sheerness Beach, Stone Bay, Margate Main Sands, Viking Bay, Herne Bay Central Beach, Westbrook Bay, Ramsgate Main Sands Beach, Louisa Bay, West Bay, Walpole Bay, Leysdown Beach, and Minster Leas Beach.
1. Margate Main Sands
Award: Blue Flag Award 2025 and Seaside Award 2025
Margate Main Sands Beach is a British seaside destination with golden sands, traditional arcades, and a vibrant atmosphere. With over 200 meters of sandy beach, it offers a blend of classic seaside charm and modern-day excitement.
There are many attractions and Margate hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, with the beach providing a colourful backdrop for these events.
2. Botany Bay, Broadstairs
Awards: Blue Flag Award 2025 and Seaside Award 2025
This hidden gem on the Kent coast is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers with its dramatic chalk stacks, golden sand, secluded coves, and stunning views. With 200 meters of golden sand, it’s perfect for lounging, sunbathing, and strolling down the shore.
It features plenty of amenities including seasonal lifeguards during the summer, shops, and eateries.
3. Joss Bay, Broadstairs
Awards: Blue Flag Award 2025 and Seaside Award 2025
This 200-meter-wide golden sandy beach is a popular spot for families, surfing enthusiasts, and beach lovers. The beach offers amenities like shops, cafes, restrooms, and parking. The surf schools offer lessons and equipment rentals since the beach is a popular destination for surfers.
It is a safer spot for swimming due to seasonal lifeguards on duty in the summer period. It is also designated for bathing which is convenient especially since this beach is known as the best beach in Kent for surfing.
4. Minnis Bay, Birchington
Awards: Blue Flag Award 2025 and Seaside Award 2025
Minnis Bay is a beautiful, sunny beach with a large stretch of golden sand, free parking, and a kids’ outdoor play area. It offers beach activities and is a culinary haven with beachfront eateries.
The beach offers watersports like kitesurfing, paddleboarding, and sailing, and features a tidal pool.
It is designated for bathing and features seasonal lifeguards in the summer period.
5. St Mildred’s Bay, Westgate-on-Sea
Awards: Blue Flag Award 2025 and Seaside Award 2025
St Mildred’s Bay is a sandy beach with clean waters. It is designated for bathing and features seasonal lifeguards in the summer period.
It features a tidal pool that is loved by families as it offers plenty of useful amenities and is less busy than other nearby popular beaches
6. Tankerton Beach, Whitstable
Awards: Blue Flag Award 2025 and Seaside Award 2025
Tankerton Beach is known for its picturesque surroundings and welcoming family feel. The shingle beach is quieter than the beachfront near the main town. The promenade is adorned with vibrant beach cottages, some of which are available for day rental.
The famous sandspit, known as ‘The Street’, is a naturally occurring sand and shingle path that emerges at low tide. It stretches out into the sea for almost half a mile.
7. Ramsgate Main Sands Beach
Award: Blue Flag Award 2025 Seaside Award 2025
Ramsgate Main Sands is a large sandy beach that is perfect for families and beachgoers who like to relax by the ocean, build sandcastles, or just soak up the sun. There is always plenty to do thanks to its lively promenade, appetising restaurants, and fascinating attractions.
This beach has clean waters and is patrolled by lifeguards in the summer season.
8. Sheerness Beach, Isle of Sheppey
Awards: Blue Flag Award 2025 and Seaside Award 2025
The wide promenade that runs the whole length of Sheerness Beach is perfect for walking, biking, and taking in views of the Thames Estuary.
This beach boasts clean waters and features seasonal lifeguards in the summer.
Natural picnic spots and attractions are located nearby.
9. Stone Bay, Broadstairs
Award: Seaside Award 2025
Stone Bay in Broadstairs, offers a peaceful escape from the town centre with its soft sands, stunning white chalk cliffs, and calm waters.
The beach is broad and roomy, with traditional beach huts available for rent during the summer. Stone Bay is family-friendly with facilities like restrooms, deckchair rentals, and seasonal lifeguard coverage in the summer.
10. Viking Bay, Broadstairs
Award: Seaside Award 2025
Viking Bay in Broadstairs, Kent, is a picturesque seaside destination known for its soft golden sands, lively atmosphere, and family-friendly amenities. With its picturesque shoreline, fascinating history, and quaint coastal ambience, it offers a variety of activities for visitors.
Viking Bay has been commended for its amenities and cleanliness. Seasonal lifeguards patrol the beach during the summer.
11. Herne Bay Central Beach
Award: Seaside Award 2025
Herne Bay is a popular beach town with a traditional Victorian charm, renowned for its clean and well-maintained beach. Herne Bay Central is a shingle beach, that offers stunning views and colourful beach cottages.
The promenade offers beautiful gardens and beautiful gardens, while the Herne Bay Pier, features an amusement park, marketplaces, and artisan fairs. There are plenty of amenities being so close to the centre of town.
12. Westbrook Bay, Margate
Award: Seaside Award 2025
Explore Westbrook Bay’s charms as a calmer substitute for Margate’s busy main beach. This sandy beach is a popular destination for families with little children because of its sandy, clean atmosphere.
Many attractions such as art galleries, restaurants, and amusement parks can all be found in the busy town centre of Margate, which is just a short drive or walk away.
13. Louisa Bay, Broadstairs
Award: Seaside Award 2025
Discover Louisa Bay’s beauty and get away from the crowds at the busier nearby beaches in Broadstairs. This peaceful cove, which is tucked away from the busy main beach, is the ideal place to unwind and explore.
The promenade is easily accessible due to a handy slope. Like many beaches along the Kent coast, Louisa Bay is encircled by imposing white chalk cliffs.
14. West Bay, Westgate-on-Sea
Award: Seaside Award 2025
Westgate-on-Sea is home to the peaceful, sandy West Bay. It is well-known for its calm ambience, provides breathtaking views of the coastline, and is a wonderful place to spend a day by the sea.
The beach is suitable for people looking for a peaceful and picturesque getaway because it is quieter than the adjacent sandy beaches and is great for walks along the shore.
15. Walpole Bay, Margate
Award: Seaside Award 2025
The long stretch of golden sand at Walpole Bay is ideal for strolls, beach activities and building sandcastles. There is always enough space on the broad beaches to prevent feeling crowded, even at peak times.
As the tide recedes, vast expanses of bare rock and tidal pools are formed, teeming with marine creatures like starfish, prawns, and crabs.
16. Leysdown Beach, Isle of Sheppey
Award: Seaside Award 2025
On the Isle of Sheppey, the well-known beach resort Leysdown Beach is well-known for its traditional British coastal charm and kid-friendly atmosphere. Leysdown is well known for its traditional beach attractions such as amusement arcades and ice cream shops, which give visitors a sense of beach life in times past in Britain.
Seasonal Lifeguards patrol the beach in the summer period.
17. Minster Leas Beach, Isle of Sheppey
Award: Seaside Award 2025
Minster Leas Beach is well-known for its tranquil atmosphere, clean waters, and charming surroundings. It is largely a shingle beach with patches of sand that form at low tide.
There is a beautiful walking trail with views of the Thames Estuary along a long promenade. The promenade is bordered by traditional beach homes that provide a splash of colour and a nostalgic seaside atmosphere.
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