Kent’s coastline is full of hidden gems, golden sands, chalky cliffs, and calm bays that make the perfect weekend escape. In this guide, we’ll explore the best Kent beaches for a weekend getaway, all easy to reach from Medway. Whether you’re after a family day out or a relaxing drive by the coast, Hire2You makes it simple, no deposit, no credit check, no hassle.
1. Botany Bay, Broadstairs’ Hidden Treasure
Tucked between towering white cliffs, Botany Bay is one of Kent’s most photographed beaches. Its chalk stacks and turquoise waters could easily be mistaken for the Mediterranean.
- Perfect for picnics and coastal walks
- Safe swimming at low tide
- Parking nearby (arrive early in summer)
- Around an hour’s drive from Strood
Many Rochester families say Botany Bay has become their “go-to” summer spot, it’s quieter than Margate and great for kids. Its clean water, rated Excellent by the Environment Agency, makes it a reliable choice for a sunny day out.
If you’re taking lots of beach gear, try Hire2You’s affordable van hire options for plenty of space and flexibility.
2. Whitstable Beach, Seafood, Sunsets & Sailing
With pastel beach huts, seafood stalls, and charming seaside shops, Whitstable Beach is perfect for an easy-going weekend.
Stroll along the harbour, enjoy oysters and chips, or catch a sunset over the water.
- 40 minutes from Medway, ideal for a quick car hire trip
- Great for couples and food lovers
- Vibrant town with plenty to explore
According to VisitKent (2024), over a million visitors come to Whitstable each year, and it’s easy to see why.
3. Viking Bay, Classic Seaside Fun
Viking Bay has all the charm of a classic British beach day. Think golden sand, colourful beach huts, arcades, and a lively promenade.
Families love it for its shallow water, lifeguards, and easy parking. Beach huts are available to hire, and cafés line the seafront for coffee or ice cream breaks.
If you’re setting off from Medway, Hire2You’s Strood van hire service is perfect for loading up all your beach essentials.
4. Dungeness, Kent’s Wild Coastal Escape
Dungeness is unlike anywhere else in Kent. Its vast shingle beach, lighthouse, and weather-worn huts create a rugged, cinematic landscape.
- Ideal for photographers and walkers
- Quiet and atmospheric
- Home to a nature reserve with rare birds
A recent Hire2You customer shared their experience after hiring a vehicle for their trip:
“Very affordable car rental. None of these hidden charges and payments. Everything explained to you prior so no issues. Fantastic clean car I was given and it drove lovely, unlike some of the cars you get from other rental firms. This place clearly takes care of their vehicles before and after. Friendly staff and up for a good laugh too.”
For an open-road adventure, Hire2You’s car hire in Rochester offers the freedom to explore this striking coast.
5. Joss Bay, Surfers’ Paradise
If you love the water, Joss Bay is the place to be. Known as Kent’s top surf spot, it offers lessons, equipment hire, and wide sandy shores for relaxing between waves.
- Great surf conditions year-round
- Lifeguards on duty in summer
- Parking close to the beach
Whether you’re surfing or just watching, Joss Bay is full of energy and easy to reach by car.
6. Margate Main Sands, Family Favourite
Margate Main Sands is all about simple seaside fun. The Blue Flag beach is right in the town centre, surrounded by cafés, arcades, and Dreamland amusement park.
- Clean sand and lifeguards on duty
- Plenty of parking and facilities
- Ideal for families with children
Don’t miss the Turner Contemporary gallery nearby for a quick cultural stop before you head home.
Travelling with the family? Hire2You’s van hire makes it easy to carry everything you need for the day.
7. St Margaret’s Bay, Cliffside Calm Near Dover
For peace and scenery, St Margaret’s Bay is hard to beat. Set beneath the White Cliffs of Dover, this quiet cove is perfect for picnics, photos, and fresh sea air.
- Peaceful and uncrowded
- Café and free parking nearby
- Ideal for walkers and couples
It’s a relaxing final stop on any Kent coastal drive, just pack a picnic and enjoy the views.
Road-Trip Checklist: Planning Your Kent Beach Weekend
| ✅ What to Pack | 🚗 Travel Tip | 🍴 Nearby Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Sun cream, towels, picnic blanket | Hire a car from Hire2You for flexible travel | Cafés & seafood restaurants near most beaches |
| Extra clothes & swimwear | Start early to avoid parking delays | Toilets available at most Blue Flag beaches |
| Beach games or paddleboards | Use Google Maps for live traffic | Cash/card for parking meters |
Why Hire a Car or Van for Your Kent Beach Trip
Some of Kent’s best beaches are off the main train routes, a car gives you the freedom to go where you like, when you like.
With a Hire2You vehicle, you can pack coolers, surfboards, and all your beach gear with ease. We’ve helped hundreds of locals take spontaneous seaside trips with same-day hire, no deposit, and no credit check.
Drive away today from just £29/day.
Hire your car or van from Hire2You in Strood, no deposit, no credit check, no hassle.
FAQs, Your Kent Beach Weekend Questions Answered
Which Kent beach is best for families?
Viking Bay and Margate Main Sands both have lifeguards, toilets, and plenty of sand for kids.
What’s the closest beach to Medway?
Whitstable Beach, roughly 40 minutes away and ideal for a half-day trip.
Are Kent beaches dog-friendly?
Yes, several like Botany Bay and Dungeness welcome dogs outside peak summer months.
Is parking easy at Kent beaches?
Most have car parks nearby, but it’s best to arrive early on sunny weekends.
Can I hire a van for beach trips?
Absolutely! Hire2You’s van hire services include small, long-wheelbase, and Luton vans, ideal for family outings or groups.
Conclusion, Start Your Kent Beach Adventure Today
From surfing at Joss Bay to quiet walks at St Margaret’s Bay, Kent’s coastline offers something for everyone.
Make your next seaside trip easy and affordable with Hire2You — your trusted local car and van hire company in Strood, Rochester.
Drive away today from just £29/day.
No deposit. No credit check. No hassle.