Tankerton Beach, Whitstable Guide
Stretching east from Whitstable Harbour towards Herne Bay, Tankerton Beach offers one of the most relaxed and scenic seaside experiences on the Kent coast. Known for its long shingle shoreline, colourful beach huts, and wide grassy slopes, Tankerton is a favourite with locals looking for open space, sea views, and spectacular sunsets across the Thames Estuary.
Quieter than Whitstable’s main beach but still close to the town centre, Tankerton Beach is ideal for coastal walks, picnics, dog walking (outside summer restrictions), and peaceful days by the sea.
About Tankerton Beach
Tankerton Slopes
Tankerton Beach is a predominantly shingle beach backed by the famous Tankerton Slopes — a wide expanse of green lawns that gently rise above the shoreline. This unique layout makes it one of the most popular picnic spots in Whitstable, offering uninterrupted sea views and plenty of space to relax.
At low tide, the Tankerton Shelves appear — a natural shingle spit that extends far out into the sea, allowing visitors to walk across the seabed. This unusual natural feature is one of the beach’s standout attractions and is particularly popular at sunset.
The water here is generally calm, though the seabed can be uneven. Swimming is possible in suitable conditions, but visitors should always check tide times and sea conditions before entering the water.
Things to Do at Tankerton Beach
Walk the Tankerton Shelves
At low tide, walk out along the Tankerton Shelves as the sea recedes, creating a rare opportunity to stroll far into the estuary. It’s one of the most photographed spots on the north Kent coast.
Picnic on the Slopes
The grassy slopes above the beach are perfect for picnics, sunbathing, and watching the sunset. Benches line the promenade, and there’s plenty of space for families and groups.
Coastal Walks
Tankerton Beach forms part of the coastal path linking Whitstable, Tankerton, and Herne Bay. It’s ideal for long walks with uninterrupted sea views.
Cafés and Local Shops
Tankerton Parade, just behind the slopes, is home to independent cafés, bakeries, and shops, making it easy to combine beach time with lunch or coffee nearby.
Dog Walking (Seasonal)
Outside of summer restrictions, Tankerton Beach is a popular spot for dog walkers, especially early mornings and evenings.
Visitor Information
Getting There
By train: Whitstable Station (20-minute walk or short taxi ride).
By car: Follow the A299 (Thanet Way) towards Whitstable and Tankerton.
Parking & Facilities
Free and pay-and-display parking available along Tankerton Promenade and nearby residential streets.
Public toilets, cafés, benches, grassy slopes, and beach huts nearby.
Map
Practical Tips Before You Visit
Check tide times if you want to walk the Tankerton Shelves
The beach is shingle, so sturdy footwear is recommended
Sunsets are best viewed from the slopes or promenade
Dogs are restricted during summer months on certain sections
Why Visit Tankerton Beach?
Tankerton Beach offers a quieter, more spacious alternative to Whitstable’s main beach, while still delivering excellent sea views, unique natural features, and easy access to cafés and coastal walks. Its combination of grassy slopes, shingle shore, and dramatic low-tide landscape makes it one of the most distinctive beaches in north Kent.
