Kent, England, United Kingdom

West Bay

West Bay is a hidden gem located in Thanet, known for its sunshine that lasts all day, rising in the east and setting in the west. The beach is characterized by its sandy terrain, which is covered at high tide, so it's advisable to check the tide times before visiting. The natural walls and diverse area provide a unique blend of concrete brutalist vibes and human influence, making it a favorite spot along this part of the coastline. Spectacular sunsets can be witnessed here, adding to the overall appeal of the location.

The beach is equipped with basic amenities, including very clean public toilets, a bay inspector, and lifeguards. There is a kiosk selling teas, coffees, and ices, along with homemade bread pudding. A larger cafe serving cooked meals is located a few minutes up the promenade. Additionally, there is a pub with a beer garden on the opposite side of the road.

Discover accommodation options near West Bay and enjoy the stunning sunsets this hidden gem is known for.

Parking is conveniently available right on the seafront, free of charge, and without the hassle of ticket machines and traffic wardens. This makes the beach more accessible and less crowded than the more popular bays. However, it's worth noting that the area can reach a dead end unexpectedly.

What to do at West Bay?

Amenities

West Bay amenities include parking and toilet.

Bars

You can enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the bars situated on the beach.

Restaurants

Best restaurants near West Bay include Finbar's of West Bay, Julias, The Swan, Westgate-on-Sea, Westgate Fish & Chips, Millies Beach Bar & Restaurant and Paul's Bar & Bistro.

Visitor Reviews

Visitor reviews highlight the beach's abundant sunshine and the convenience of free parking right on the seafront. The cleanliness of the public toilets and the availability of lifeguards also receive positive comments. However, some visitors express disappointment about unexpected dead ends along the coastline.

Where to Stay near West Bay?

Visitors to West Bay often choose to stay in the nearby town of Margate, which offers a variety of accommodation options and is known for its vibrant arts scene and seaside attractions. For those looking specifically for beachside accommodation, there are options within walking distance to West Bay, allowing easy access to its serene sandy shores and stunning sunsets.

The following map shows available accommodations and their prices. See the full list of accommodation options here.

Find the best nearby activities

What to do near West Bay?

Where is West Bay?

Latitude: 51.3823932 / Longitude: 1.330365

West Bay is located in Kent. The following map of West Bay shows the exact location.

West Bay: Weather Today

📅 Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Today at West Bay offers an average beach experience. The maximum air temperature will be 20.2 °C. Expect some clouds in the sky. The wind will be moderate, with stronger gusts possible. The sea temperature is 18.4 °C and the waves are low. With a UV index of 5, protection may not be required, but be mindful of the sun.
🌬️

Air

Low / High12.1°C/20.2°C
Feels Like (High)20.1°C
🌊

Sea

Sea Temperature18.4 °C
Wave Height0.4 m
🌧️

Rain

Rain Chance3%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
🌞

Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:20/19:23
Sunshine Hours11.8 hrs
UV Index5
Cloud Cover41%
💨

Wind

Speed14.9 km/h
Gusts27.4 km/h
DirectionSW

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