Canterbury is surrounded by stunning coastline on three sides offering plenty of opportunities to relax, explore and try new things. Here are some of our top coastal places to visit in East Kent, and some of the fantastic activities and attractions you can enjoy.
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Whitstable
Whitstable is the closest seaside 
destination to the University of Kent. It’s so close in fact, you can cycle or walk from the Canterbury Campus to Whitstable Beach by following the Crab and Winkle Way. Known for its boutique shops, Harbour, eateries and water sports, it’s a fantastic location for a day out.
Beach Type: Pebble
Top Attractions: Whitstable Harbour, Whitstable Castle, Whitstable Beaches
Top Activities: Sailing, Paddleboarding, Windsurfing, Small Boat Racing and Boutique Shopping
See Also: Whitstable Yacht Club, Sailing and Windsurfing Student Society
Ramsgate
Known for being home to the 
UK’s only Royal Harbour and Marina, as well as its famous tunnels, nature parks and fantastic sandy beaches, Ramsgate is a great place to visit.
Beach Type: Sand
Top Attractions: Maritime Museum, Boulevard Amusements, Ramsgate Tunnels, The Micro Museum
Top Activities: Seal Watching, Kite Surfing, Kayaking, Diving, Pickleball, Petanque and Boating
See Also: Kent Scuba Diving, Sea Searcher Boat Trips, Scuba Diving Student Society
Margate
Home to the Turner 
Contemporary Art Gallery, the Shell Grotto, Dreamland and much more, Margate is a must-visit destination.
Beach Type: Sand
Top Attractions: Dreamland, Turner Contemporary, Margate Harbour Arm, Shell Grotto, Margate Old Town, Old Kent Market, Hornby Museum
Top Activities: Mini Golf, Dreamland Rides and Amusements, Exploring Art Galleries, Shopping, Eating/Drinking
See Also: Visit Thanet
Broadstairs
The picturesque and charming 
town of Broadstairs is packed with character and is a fantastic place to relax on the beach with friends.
Beach Type: Sand
Top Attractions: Crampton Tower, Broadstairs Bandstand, Dickens House Museum, Bleak House Museum, Broadstairs Water Gala
Top Activities: Surfing, Relaxing, Eating/Drinking, Coastal Walks, Exploring Museums
See Also: Kent Surf School, UKC Surf Student Society
Dover
Known for its iconic white cliffs, 
Dover is home to a wide range of activities and attractions, offering plenty to see and do.
Beach Type: Shingle and Pebbles
Top Attractions: White Cliffs of Dover, Dover Castle, South Foreland Lighthouse, Fan Bay Deep Shelter, Banksy Mural, De Bradelei Wharf
Top Activities: Sailing, Windsurfing, Paddleboarding, Jet Skiing, Exploring the Castle and Landmarks, Coastal Walking, Shopping
See Also: Dover Sea Safari, Dover Sea Sports
For more beaches:
Check out The Beach Guide’s Best Beaches in Kent
More information
For more information about student life at Kent, contact our friendly Admissions Team.