It’s astonishing to find such a dazzling beach with glittering waters and golden sands in the heart of Kent, rather than some exotic overseas escape. With summer well on its way, there’s no better time to pencil in ‘beach day’ on your planner. One stunning option is Botany Bay, which continues to boost Blue Flag recognition, assuring its cleanliness and upkeep.
During low tide, the expanse is vast, revealing many a curiosity within its rock pools. The coast is mesmerising here; the bay is adorned with the iconic white cliffs and chalk stacks that make this landscape an unforgettable aspect of the region and a favourite subject for photographers across Kent.
You can amble to Kingsgate Bay and Joss Bay, although be mindful of the incoming tide – or you might find yourself waiting out for six hours like one individual did.
Botany Bay also benefits from daily lifeguard patrols between May 24 and September 7, operating from 10am to 6pm. Pooches are welcome outside these hours, from May 1 to September 30.
A recent visitor hailed the secluded patch between Margate and Broadstairs as a true “gem”, cherishing lengthy strolls along the shoreline and cliff tops as the trip’s highlight. First-time visitors, take heed: street parking near Botany Bay is off-limits, reports Kent Live.
It’s worth noting that Margate is a fantastic destination in its own right.
Visitors will be charmed by the unique blend of traditional and modern, artistic and playful elements, while Broadstairs, with its thriving independent scene, bars, cafes and restaurants, offers a contemporary experience not to be missed.
Accessing the bay, which was named the UK’s most photographed last February, is straightforward via a well-trodden path from the clifftop or a concrete path at the far end near the water station.
The water quality was rated excellent for bathing in 2024, maintaining a consistent standard from previous years. Throughout 2025, water samples will be taken 15 times, with the first already conducted on May 7 and the final one scheduled before September 30.
A recent review on Tripadvisor, where Botany Bay boasts a rating of 4.2 out of 5 from 546 reviews, praised the cleanliness of the beach and the ample space for dogs to roam freely.
They wrote: “We were able to walk along to Joss Bay passing the chalk formations and arch at Kingsgate Bay. In the summer, this beach would be world-class. Cannot fault it. I heard there’s a naturist, if that’s your thing, area in summer at the dunes area in the Margate direction.”
At low tide, rock pools emerge and a walk around to Kingsgate Bay becomes possible, but it’s crucial to plan your visit accordingly.
The council advises: “When the tide is out, Botany bay is a great location for fossil hunting and exploring rock pools. There is plenty of exposed sand to enjoy when the tide is in, but due to the bay’s shape the ends are cut off at high tide.”
If you’re a fan of scenic strolls, time your visit for low tide in the early morning. You’ll be able to wander for miles along the endless fine sand, against a backdrop of white cliffs and skylarks darting across the sky.
Contrary to what one might assume, Botany Bay wasn’t named for its flora. Legend has it that the bay was a popular smuggling hub in the 18th century, and those apprehended were exiled to Botany Bay in Australia.
While this Botany Bay may not share the balmy climate of its Australian counterpart, it nonetheless captivates visitors with its charm. This Kentish bay is the northernmost of seven bays in Broadstairs.