Is Botany Bay a sandy beach?

Yes. Botany Bay in Broadstairs is one of Kent’s most beautiful sandy beaches, framed by dramatic white chalk cliffs and natural sea stacks.

Can you swim at Botany Bay?

Yes, swimming is popular at Botany Bay during the summer months when lifeguards are on duty. The shallow, clear water is safe for families and paddling.

Are dogs allowed on Botany Bay?

Dogs are not permitted on Botany Bay between 1 May and 30 September. They are welcome on nearby Kingsgate Bay outside of these dates.

Where can I park near Botany Bay?

Limited free parking is available at the top of Marine Drive near the Botany Bay Hotel. Additional spaces can be found at nearby Palm Bay and Joss Bay car parks.

How do I get to Botany Bay by train?

Take the train to Broadstairs Station, then walk or take a short taxi ride to the bay. Southeastern services run regularly from London St Pancras and Victoria.

What facilities are available at Botany Bay?

Facilities include toilets, a seasonal café, deckchair hire, kayak rentals, and lifeguards during the summer season.

What can you do at Botany Bay?

Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, exploring rock pools and chalk caves at low tide, or taking scenic walks along the clifftop to Kingsgate Bay.

Botany Bay Broadstairs Guide — The Kent Tourist

Botany Bay, Broadstairs: Kent’s Hidden Coastal Gem

Tucked between Broadstairs and Margate, Botany Bay is one of Kent’s most breathtaking beaches - famous for its towering chalk cliffs, golden sand, and crystal-clear waters. Its dramatic scenery makes it a favourite for photographers, families, and those seeking a quieter coastal escape along the Thanet coastline.

During low tide, the beach reveals fossil-filled rock pools and hidden caves waiting to be explored. In summer, Botany Bay is lifeguarded, with safe swimming and calm, shallow water ideal for paddling or paddleboarding. Its west-facing position means you can catch some of the most spectacular sunsets on the Isle of Thanet.

Overlooking the beach is the Botany Bay Hotel, offering comfortable accommodation, a popular restaurant, and sea-view terrace — ideal for relaxing after a day by the coast. There’s also a small seasonal café directly on the beach serving ice creams and light snacks.

Botany Bay’s combination of golden sand, dramatic scenery, and peaceful atmosphere makes it one of the finest coastal spots in Kent. Whether you’re fossil hunting, kayaking, or simply enjoying a picnic beneath the cliffs, this secluded bay offers the perfect taste of the classic Kent coast — quieter, scenic, and unforgettable.