Kingsgate Bay
Kingsgate Bay is a sheltered sandy cove backed by high white chalk cliffs. The beach is probably best known for its sea caves which are reputedly some of the best in the country.
Although there is no lifeguard service at Kingsgate it is still a popular family beach. It is also usually much quieter than the neighbouring beaches of Joss Bay and Botany Bay. One reason for this is the parking isn’t as good, although it’s only short walk from Joss Bay with its large car park. There is also a fair sized customer’s car park at the pub.
Overlooking the southern end of the beach is Kingsgate Castle, built in the 1760s for Lord Holland. At the other end is the Captain Digby public house, also built by Lord Holland. This family friendly pub has great views over the beach and a children’s play area.
Dogs are allowed on the beach at Kingsgate Bay all year round.
Type of beach
Sandy
Lifeguard service
No
Dogs friendly beach?
Dogs allowed
Dog friendly beach
Facilities
- Cafe/restaurant
- Pub nearby
- Beach hut hire
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Kingsgate Bay Reviews
Would recommend visiting with dogs
Almost deserted whilst Joss and Botany were heaving
Maria
Jun 02nd 2021I couldn’t believe that whilst Joss and Botany were rammed that Kingsgate Bay was so empty. It’s a really beautiful beach with the archway accessible at low tide. Being a more secluded cove the waves were smaller here and lended themselves to paddling. There isn’t a lifeguard unlike the other two but because of the reduced beachgoers it felt easier to monitor the shoreline.
The nearby pub serves really delicious food and if you eat there you get parking for free which is not to be sniffed at. We arrived at 9:30 and there were lots of spaces.
lovely beach for swimming, paddleboarding or just exploring
Diane
Jun 14th 2023We have spent many happy hours here with kids and dogs, swimming, kayaking and watching others paddleboarding! Take a picnic or eat at the Captain Digby - dogs are welcome and watered in the outside areas and you can park all day if you have a food receipt!
Many a great day out
charlotte
Aug 04th 2022This beautiful beach is never too busy and makes for a perfect day out all year round - either in heat of the summer or a blustery day in winter with the dogs this beach really does have it all with fab little caves and coves for endless exploring with the kids.
Captain digby serves great food with a fantastic kids soft play area to keep them amused (although dogs not allowed in pub) definitely worth booking and a visit to kingsgate
Lovely beach with access to the caves which were fantastic for kids to explore. During low tide, the seaweed was the only issue with lots of it around but we found a nice little spot to access the water so it wasn’t too much of an issue. Dog friendly which is also good. Access to the beach is via a long staircase (not ideal for those who require flat surface accessibility). The pub serves good food and also has a lovely play area for kids.
Peter
Jul 26th 2020Spent a lot of summers there growing up. Loved it despite the cold sea!