Botany Bay Broadstairs

Visit Botany Bay

Award winning Botany Bay in Broadstairs on the Kent coast, is a sandy beach, great for swimming, perfect for a family day out. Bring your bucket and spade, and when the tide goes out there are plenty of rock pools to explore. The beach stretches from Foreness Point to Neptune Tower.

Botany Bay is one of Kent’s most photographed beaches – and it’s easy to see why. With its towering chalk stacks, golden sand, and clear shallow waters, it looks like something out of a postcard. Tucked between Broadstairs and Margate, it’s a bit of a hidden gem, especially compared to its busier neighbours. If you’re after coastal drama and a bit of seaside peace, this is the beach for you.

The first thing you’ll notice when you arrive is the famous white cliffs and sea stacks, which have made the bay popular with photographers and filmmakers. They rise up dramatically from the sand, casting cool shadows and creating a natural playground of little caves and corners to explore. It’s a great place for wandering around barefoot, dipping your toes in the sea, and enjoying the sense of space that only a wide open beach can offer.

Botany Bay is excellent for paddling, swimming and relaxing, especially on a warm summer’s day. The beach is fairly sheltered, and at low tide, rock pools appear along the shore, filled with sea life and perfect for kids or anyone curious about nature. Just be sure to check the tide times before you visit – the sea does come in quickly here and can cut you off if you’re too far out near the cliffs.

In the summer months, lifeguards are usually on duty, which adds peace of mind if you’re swimming or visiting with children. There are toilets just above the beach and a small café near the entrance serving drinks, snacks and ice creams. It’s simple, but enough to keep you going if you’re spending the whole day.

Parking is available nearby, but it’s limited – especially during the summer holidays or sunny weekends. There’s a small car park at the top of Botany Road and some on-street parking, but it fills up fast. If you’re coming by public transport, buses run from Margate and Broadstairs, and it’s just a short walk from nearby Kingsgate or Palm Bay if you fancy a longer coastal stroll.

For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, Botany Bay is also a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding, thanks to its calm waters. Just make sure you’re confident on the water and check the weather and tides before heading out.

The cliffs themselves are fascinating too – part of the North Foreland chalk ridge, they’ve stood here for millions of years, gradually worn away by sea and weather. If you’re into fossils, keep your eyes peeled along the tide line. You might just spot something ancient.

All in all, Botany Bay is one of those beaches that feels special the moment you see it. Whether you’re here for a quiet afternoon, a family outing, or simply to soak up the natural beauty, it’s a place that leaves an impression – and usually a few lovely photos too.

Take the Botany Bay Beach Walking Trail along the cliff top and walk (along Prince’s Walk) towards Margate.

Dog lovers, take note: Botany Bay has seasonal dog restrictions. From 1st May to 30th September, dogs aren’t allowed on the main part of the beach between 10am and 6pm. Outside of those months (or times), you’re free to walk your dog and let them enjoy the sea breeze too. Just keep an eye out for signs and stick to the rules, as the beach is well looked after.