Far more than just a beach for sunbathing. Camber Sands is a hub for watersports, wildlife and outdoor adventure.
Camber is one of the UK's premier kitesurfing beaches, with consistent southerly winds and shallow water perfect for learning. The Kitesurf Centre and Camber Kitesurfing both offer lessons from around £99, plus equipment hire. Kite buggying, landboarding, paddleboarding and kayaking are also available.
The Sustrans coastal cycle path passes through Camber and connects to Rye, making it perfect for family rides. Ebike Hire offers fat-tyre electric bikes ideal for exploring the coast, lakes, castles and nature reserves. The route from Rye to Camber is about 3 miles of dedicated path.
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve is nearby, with over 4,300 recorded species including rare birds like avocets and marsh harriers. The dunes themselves are an SSSI. Seals are sometimes spotted offshore. Bring binoculars for the best experience.
Horse riding on the beach is permitted with seasonal restrictions. From late March to early October, riding is only allowed on weekdays before 8:30am and after 7pm, at low tide. Outside this period there is more flexibility. Contact the Coastal Officer on 01797 225207 for details.
The dunes, the dramatic skies and the vast flat sands at low tide make Camber a photographer's dream. Sunrise and sunset are particularly stunning. In winter, the emptier beach and moody light create atmospheric conditions for landscape photography.
With miles of soft golden sand, Camber is perfect for sandcastle building, kite flying, beachcombing and beach games. The gentle shallow waters (at low tide) are ideal for paddling with children. Gas BBQs are allowed on the western beach. No disposable BBQs permitted.
Camber Sands sits in one of the most rewarding corners of England. The medieval town of Rye, nature reserves, castles and the otherworldly landscape of Dungeness are all on your doorstep.
One of England's best-preserved medieval towns. Cobbled Mermaid Street, ancient inns, independent shops, art galleries, Rye Castle Museum and exceptional restaurants. Unmissable.
Stunning coastal wetland with over 4,300 recorded species. Flat, accessible paths through saltmarsh and shingle ridges. Five bird hides. Look for avocets, bitterns and marsh harriers.
One of Henry VIII's coastal forts, built in 1544 and abandoned shortly after. A rare, remarkably intact example of Tudor artillery fortification. Open for guided tours in summer.
An extraordinary, otherworldly landscape. Shingle desert, the old lighthouse, Derek Jarman's famous garden, and some of the best fish and chips in Kent at The Pilot Inn.
A picture-perfect 14th century moated castle managed by the National Trust. Brilliant for families. The outside walls are virtually complete and the moat is spectacular.
The Rother Wine Triangle connects six award-winning vineyards between Rye, Hastings and Flimwell. Chapel Down, Gusbourne and others offer tastings and tours.