Joss Bay Beach

Joss Bay is a beloved sandy beach in Kent, nestled beneath chalk cliffs, lending it a dramatic and sheltered ambience. While its size (about 200m wide) means it can get busy, especially on warm, fine days, its natural charm and surf culture draw visitors repeatedly.

The bay was named after 18th-century smuggler Joss Snelling, and is one of the Seven Broadstairs Bays, with one of its defining features being its surfing conditions. The surf school and rental facilities make it excellent for both beginners and experienced surfers. The sheltered nature of the bay gives some protection from stronger seas, but the waves are still good for learning.

At the beach edges, especially during low tide, flat rock formations extend from the base of the cliffs. These offer opportunities for tide exploration, rock pooling, and beach discoveries. However, be cautious: rocks may be slippery, and tides can change.

Visiting with a dog? Joss Bay Beach does not allow dogs on the beach between 10 am and 6 pm from 1 May to 30 September.

The beach’s facilities include a surf school and surf/kayak hire facilities, toilets, a cafe/restaurant, shops, deck chair/ windbreak hire, car parking, lifeguards in summer months, disabled access, and a seasonal children’s play area.