Minnis Bay Guide
Minnis Bay is a wide, gently sloping sandy beach on the north Kent coast, located between Birchington-on-Sea and Westgate-on-Sea. Known for its expansive shoreline, calm waters and spectacular sunsets, it is one of Thanet’s most family-friendly and relaxed seaside spots.
With long stretches of sand exposed at low tide, a popular seafront promenade and excellent coastal walks, Minnis Bay is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, dog walking and sunset strolls. Unlike some of Kent’s busier beaches, Minnis Bay retains a peaceful, residential feel while still offering easy access to cafés, parking and facilities.
About Minnis Bay
Minnis Bay curves gently along the coastline, backed by a broad promenade and open green spaces rather than cliffs. At low tide, the beach becomes vast, revealing shallow tidal pools that are popular with families and known for safe paddling.
The bay faces north across the Thames Estuary, making it one of the best sunset-viewing beaches in Kent. Its calm waters and open aspect also make it popular with paddleboarders and kayakers during settled weather.
Things to Do at Minnis Bay
Relax on the Beach
Minnis Bay’s soft sand and shallow shoreline make it particularly well suited to families with young children. The beach is rarely overcrowded, even during peak summer days.
Coastal Walks
The promenade forms part of the Viking Coastal Trail, offering flat, scenic walking and cycling routes towards Westgate-on-Sea, Birchington and Margate.
Water Sports
On calm days, the bay is popular for paddleboarding and kayaking. The gently shelving seabed makes it accessible for beginners.
Sunset at Minnis Bay
Sunset Spotting
Minnis Bay is widely regarded as one of the best places in Kent to watch the sunset, with uninterrupted sea views and wide skies.
Visitor Information
Getting There
Minnis Bay is located just north of Birchington-on-Sea. Birchington railway station is around a 20-minute walk from the promenade, with regular services from London Victoria and St Pancras via Ramsgate.
Parking
Free and paid on-street parking is available along Minnis Bay Road and surrounding residential streets. Spaces are usually easy to find outside peak summer weekends.
Facilities
Promenade benches and green spaces
Cafés and food options nearby
Seasonal toilets
Easy access for buggies and wheelchairs
Location
Minnis Bay is located in Birchington-on-Sea on the north Kent coast, between Westgate-on-Sea and Reculver.
Getting There
Birchington railway station is around a 20-minute walk from the promenade, with regular services from London Victoria and St Pancras via Ramsgate.
Parking
On-street parking is available along Minnis Bay Road and surrounding residential streets. Availability is usually good outside peak summer weekends.
Map
