Whitstable Beach Guide — The Kent Tourist

With its colourful beach huts, working fishing boats, and world-famous oysters, Whitstable Beach is one of Kent’s most distinctive coastal destinations. Located just north of Canterbury, this traditional seaside town combines maritime heritage with a modern foodie scene.

Visitors come for the shingle shoreline, tidal waters, and spectacular sunsets that stretch across the Thames Estuary.

About Whitstable Beach

The walk from Tankerton to Whitstable beach takes you past the famous beach huts

Unlike sandy resort beaches, Whitstable’s shoreline is made up of smooth pebbles and shingle, giving it a rugged, authentic charm. Fishing boats still land their daily catch along the harbour, and the town’s beach huts create a postcard-perfect scene. As tides vary throughout the day, the seascape changes constantly - from vast open water to glimmering tidal flats.

Highlights include:

Shingle shoreline – great for beach walks and shell collecting
Working harbour – home to seafood stalls and local markets
Beach huts – colourful and iconic, lining the seafront at Tankerton
Tidal views – ideal for photography and peaceful strolls
Sunsets – some of the best in Kent, looking west over the estuary

Top Things to Do at Whitstable Beach

1. Sample the famous Whitstable oysters
Known as the Pearl of Kent, Whitstable has been harvesting oysters since Roman times. Try them fresh from local stalls or enjoy a seafood platter at The Lobster Shack or Wheelers Oyster Bar.

2. Stroll the seafront
Walk west towards the working harbour to explore independent markets, or east towards Tankerton Slopes for panoramic sea views. At low tide, you can walk along the Tankerton Shelves, a natural spit of shingle reaching out into the water.

*Tankerton Shelves* is a natural spit in the sea that you can walk out to at low tide in Whitstable

3. Try water sports
Whitstable’s sheltered waters are ideal for windsurfing, paddleboarding, and sailing. Local clubs and hire shops offer lessons for all skill levels.

4. Eat and drink by the sea
From beach picnics to pub lunches, Whitstable offers plenty of places to eat by the water. The Old Neptune, located right on the beach, is a must-visit for its relaxed atmosphere and sunset views. Read about our best pubs in Whitstable to find out more.

5. Explore beyond the beach
The town centre is packed with galleries, boutique shops, and seafood restaurants. Whitstable’s creative energy makes it a favourite for weekend breaks and day trips from London.

Why Visit Whitstable Beach?

Unlike traditional sandy resorts, Whitstable Beach offers a unique mix of coastal heritage and seaside leisure. From its oyster stalls and working harbour to its water sports and spectacular sunsets, it’s one of the most characterful beaches in Kent and a must-visit for anyone exploring the Kent coast.