Sandwich Bay
Skill Level – Confident Riders
Sandwich Bay, located on the east shore line of Thanet’s coast, is a beautiful bay and feels very rural. The drive down takes you through country roads and completely away from civilisation, except for the port in the distance. Sandwich Bay is a favourite with locals, and moreover, it’s great for chasing PBs thanks to the strong kickers. However, please read the full guide since there are unusual costs linked to accessing the bay.
What3Words: ///tastes.sandwich.palms
Live Tide & Wind Forecast
Wind Over Time
Local Knowledge:
“Works best +-2hours of high water or when the sand has been exposed at the bottom of the shingle bank. Can be quite a shore dump, so sometimes best to body drag out and set off.
The National Nature reserve and the protected area of Shell Haven start around 1km north of The LODGE and this should be avoided. Best conditions NE/SE.
Beware of wooden protrusions from wrecks exposed at low water, particularly directly in front of The Lodge”
How To Use The Bay
The beach can be accessed from the country road leading to the Golf Club and by parking at the top of the dune.
How To Get There
Co-ordinates: 51.17121, 1.24126
Google Maps: Sandwich Bay, United Kingdom
Parking – Free parking is available leading up to the bay, it is just a dune, the surface is a rough driveable country path up to the bay area, the parking spot is very uneven so do not attempt to arrive with a car with low to the ground body work as you may find your bumper get taken off.
Toilets – public toilets are seasonal and located at the north end of the bay, at The Lodge (Princes Golf Club), this is open to non-residents. Please do not try to enter in a wetsuit, you will be turned away.
*Important* Access Cost: You need to pay the toll booth or online to access the beach. It is £10 for cars and Vans, £16 for Campervans, penalty fines will be applied for those that do not pay. You can by a season ticket for £105. Please see full details and how to pay here.
FAQ
Where is Sandwich Bay located?
The bay is located close to Prince's Golf Club.
Is Sandwich good for kitesurfing?
Yes, Sandwich bay is one of the best spots in Thanet for Kitesurfing, the gaps between swell breaks make it a fantastic choice.
What wind directions work best here?
Best wind: NE, SE, E, S, N
Avoid: W winds as these will send you out to sea.
Are there any tide restrictions?
Yes, high tide can be rough when the water hits the shingle bank.
What are the hazards to be aware of?
Dunes and Shingle
Is the spot suitable for beginners?
Yes, but it is remote, so if you get in trouble you may find help harder to come by hence why we always say kite there with someone but also when you are confident.
Are there facilities nearby?
Yes, there are public toilets at the north end. Generally open during the day, although there maybe restrictions during the winter, The Lodge, at Princes is a hotel and restaurant for golfers, but is open to non resident for coffee/tea, light snacks and alcoholic drinks. You will need to be dressed and not in a wetsuit to go in.
Is there parking available?
Yes, on the uneven ground by the bay.
Can I launch directly from the sand?
Yes, but best to wait when the tide is heading out.
Do I need to be a community member to ride here?
No, but we recommend riders are insured (e.g., via BKSA) and follow safe kiting etiquette. Local communities like EKKC are active in the area.
