Herne Bay Beach
Stretching along a wide, open seafront on the north Kent coast, Herne Bay Beach offers a classic seaside experience with big skies, long coastal walks, and one of the most recognisable piers in the county. Quieter than some of Kent’s busier resort beaches but still well equipped, it’s a popular choice for families, walkers, and visitors looking for space and sea air.
With its long promenade, shingle shoreline, and easy access from London and Canterbury, Herne Bay Beach is ideal for relaxed day trips and coastal strolls throughout the year.
About Herne Bay Beach
Herne Bay Beach is a predominantly shingle beach backed by a wide promenade that runs for several miles along the coast. Unlike smaller bays, the beach here feels open and expansive, with uninterrupted views across the Thames Estuary.
At low tide, the sea retreats to reveal large areas of exposed shoreline, making it a great spot for walking and beachcombing. At high tide, the water comes close to the promenade, creating classic seaside views and a bracing atmosphere that’s especially popular in autumn and winter.
The beach is well maintained, with good water quality and RNLI lifeguard cover operating on designated sections during the summer season.
Things to Do at Herne Bay Beach
Walk the Promenade
Herne Bay’s promenade is one of the longest in Kent, stretching towards Whitstable in one direction and Reculver Towers in the other. It’s ideal for walking, cycling, and sunset strolls.
Visit Herne Bay Pier
The pier is a focal point of the seafront, offering cafés, amusements, and sea views. It’s a popular spot for fishing and photography.
Swimming and Paddling
Swimming is possible during calm conditions, particularly in summer when lifeguarded areas are in place. The shelving shingle beach makes paddling easier at higher tides.
Seafront Cafés and Arcades
Traditional seaside cafés, ice cream parlours, and amusements line the promenade, making it easy to combine beach time with refreshments and family activities.
Coastal Walks to Reculver
The coastal path east towards Reculver Towers offers one of the most scenic walks in north Kent, passing open shoreline and historic landmarks.
Visitor Information
Getting There
By train: Herne Bay Station (10-minute walk to the seafront).
By car: Follow the A299 (Thanet Way) towards Herne Bay town centre.
Parking & Facilities
Pay-and-display parking available along the seafront and nearby streets.
Public toilets, cafés, arcades, RNLI lifeguards in summer, accessible promenade.
Map
Our guide on where to get the very best coffee in Margate.