
Margate Main Sands
Best Wind Direction
NW, N, NEWind Range
12–30 knotsTide Info
Any TideWater Type
Flat/chop/swellSkill Level
Intermediate–AdvancedLaunch Area
Pier BayCrowds
Moderate-busyHazards
Pier, Tidal PoolParking
FreeToilets/Café
YesLifeguards
Summer
Skill Level – Intermediate – Advanced
Margate Main Sands is one of the busiest beaches in East Kent and a main tourist location for Thanet. The beach is surrounded by the pier, Turner Contemporary, Arlington House, Dreamland’s big wheel and all the arcades. It’s a short walk from the train station and there are plenty of places to eat and drink.
You can kite on Margate Main Sands at any tide condition. At High Tide you can kite into the Pier and bay area, right up to the Kings Steps and at low tide you jump in and out of the tidal pool. It’s important to remember this is a very busy beach and even in the colder months, there are a lot of people on the beach.
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Live Tide & Wind Forecast
Local Knowledge:
“Kiting on Margate Main Sands is great fun as long as you are extra careful and considerate of the general public. It is best not to get too close to the Kings Steps because there is a busy road just up from the step, it’s best to give the pier a wide birth and remember there are often swimmers the closer you get to the beach.”
How To Use The Bay
The beach can be accessed from anywhere on the seafront. We suggest that if you are going to kite on Margate Main Sands that you set up closer to the Nayland Rock Hotel, this is often less busy and your pump and kite bag is less likely to go walkies. The bay is a sand beach with plenty of space.
How To Get There
Co-ordinates: 51.38952187066405, 1.3768315003539444
Google Maps: Margate Main Sands, United Kingdom
Parking – There is paid parking in the train station. Paid parking by the Nayland Rock Hotel. Some of the roads around the train station and up by Arlington House are free to park but this is a busy sea front so most parking is paid.
FAQ
Is Margate Main Sands suitable for beginner kitesurfers?
No, there are too many people and too many obstacles that make this spot too high risk for a beginner.
Can I kite on Margate Main Sands in the Summer?
No, Margate Main Sands must be avoided during the busy season. The beach will be too busy to launch from but you will put yourself and others at risk if you try.
What’s the best tide state for kiting here?
Margate Main Sands can be kited on all tide conditions.
Is there parking nearby?
Yes, but you have to pay for it.
Are there toilets or showers on site?
Yes. Public toilets but they tend to be closed during the winter. You can use nearby bars and restaurants if you make a purchase or ask nicely,
Can I take lessons at Margate Main Sands?
No, the best place for North Coast lessons is Minnis Bay.






