Botany Bay

Brief description

The sandy bay is approximately 200 metres long, and has sand exposed at high tide. This unspoilt bay has white chalk stacks and cliffs surrounding it and is accessible via either steps or a steep slope. At low tide you can walk to Kingsgate Bay.

The sand is very soft at Botany Bay and to transport equipment we recommend a gator type or quad bike type vehicle.

NB: There is a dog ban from May to September between 10:00 and 18:00.

This area is very popular for filming and photo shoots. Please check for availability.

Botany Bay is a Blue Flag bay 2019

History

Botany Bay is linked with the history of smugglers. In 1769 smuggler Joss Snelling and his gang were caught with contraband on the beach by the Revenue Patrol, after a fierce fight Joss escaped. Joss survived to become an old man, who was introduced to Princess Victoria on a visit to the area. He died in Broadstairs in 1837.

Facilities

Parking:

Small crews – Free on-street parking available on Botany Road, a small unmade road area at the bottom of Botany Road and Marine Drive.

Large crews – Unit base can be arranged close by.

Toilets:

Seasonal opening from 26 March for the summer from 8am to 6:45pm

Food/Drink:

There is a kiosk on Botany Bay which provides tea, coffee and snacks. Items you would need on a beach, such as deck chairs and windbreaks, are also available for hire. The Botany Bay Hotel has a restaurant, bar food and accommodation available.