Camber Sands

• Kids can run and play through the sandy dunes, and have a paddle or dip in the sea!
• Keep an eye out for unusual wildlife, and go seal-spotting on a RIB tour round the bay.
• Learn how to kite surf or paddle board at the Rye Watersports centre on the beach.
• Head to the famous East Sussex town of Rye to check out ancient buildings and discover more local history.

From playing in the sand dunes to trying your hand at sports on the water, Camber Sands near Rye in Sussex is a superb place to come for a day out with the kids.

With plenty of activities for all the family, as well as the opportunity to run around on a sandy beach and even explore the nearby ancient town of Rye, children, adults and everyone in between is sure to love their trip to this popular beach.

As the name suggests, Camber Sands is, well, sandy. This means that not only is it great bucket and spade fodder for the kids, but it also adds to the appeal of a barefoot stroll along the waterfront.

Whether you come and visit in summer and enjoy the blustery wind on a walk down the beach, or in the summer when you can enjoy the almost tropical waters, there's always something to do at Camber Sands.

In August, the hottest month, you can enjoy up to eight hours of sunlight on the beach, and high temperatures that will warm the water.

In winter, the beach is equally as beautiful however, with impressive sunsets and many species of bird coming to visit the area.

There are lots of great activities to get stuck into at Camber Sands beach, not least water sports.

If you're ready to try something different or just brush up on your skills, head to Rye Watersports near the shorefront, where you can learn sailing, wind surfing, kite surfing, or even have a go at stand up paddle boarding (also known as SUP).

Although, if you're visiting in the cooler months, make sure to pack the wetsuit!

Or, if actually getting in the water isn't for you, you can still take to the waves on a RIB tour from Rye Harbour, which will give you a whistle stop ride around the area of Camber Sands, before dropping you back on dry land.

Nature lovers are also sure to love this beautiful beach. With lots of birds, wildlife and more to see, definitely bring the binoculars if you're into birdwatching.

If you're lucky, you might even see some seals bobbing and playing among the waves.

Looking further to the ground, Camber Sands is also home to a number of different beetles, including the species Bradycellus distnctus, which can't be found anywhere else in the UK!

Dog lovers will also be happy to know they can bring their four legged friend to Camber Sands beach with them on their East Sussex adventure, but make sure to check the restriction times.

As well as enjoying the nature and sea life, there are many more things to do in Camber Sands with children in tow.

Just behind the beach you'll find Pontins, a favourite family holiday destination, with facilities and activities to keep the whole family entertained for days.

There are also lots of great coastal walks to do in the area, and you'll also find that the National Cycle Network runs nearby if you happen to have the bikes with you.

Once you've explored the beautiful beach at Camber Sands, there are also lots of things to do in Rye, the historical town just a few miles inland.

With buildings that date back to Tudor and medieval times, this stunning town is famous for its quintessential English charm, and is certainly worth a visit if you are in East Sussex.

Just a 10 minute drive away, you can also walk the 4.3 miles to Rye, or hop on your bike and follow the National Cycle Network Route 2, which will take you to the town.

For something to eat near Camber Sands Beach, you can head to the village of Camber which is just by the beach.

Here you'll find a selection of eateries, including fish 'n' chips, restaurant options and pubs where you can enjoy a bite. Or, there's always the option of ordering something to take away and enjoy on the beach.

Alternatively, head into Rye where you'll find a larger selection of places to eat, as well as hotels if you're planning on staying in the area.

If you're looking for a great family-friendly Camber Sands hotel, try The Gallivant. Just across the street from Camber Sands Beach, The Gallivant also has a great restaurant that you can book for dinner after your day on the beach.

Camber Sands camping is also a popular option for families, and the nearest campsite is Camber Sands Holiday Park, located on Lydd Road just east of Camber Sands Beach.

If your day out at Camber Sands Beach has sparked your interest in exploring more of the East Sussex area, why not head to Herstmonceux Castle, one of the oldest brick buildings in the UK? Here, you can delve into 15th century history, and even attend one of their magical Harry Potter themed events.

Or, head even further back in time to explore the Benedictine chapel ruins at Battle Abbey and Battlefield, just a 40 minute drive from Camber Sands Beach.

What to know before you go

• There are public toilet facilities at Camber Sands, run by Rother District Council. You can also find baby changing facilities and accessible toilets near the beach.
• Dogs are welcome on the beach, but are not allowed from 1 May and 30 September within zoned areas. Please see the Rother District Council website for more information.
• Please note that the tide can move quickly, so check online if you are unsure about high and low tide times, and do not swim far out in the bay. Low tide can also expose soft mud that can be dangerous to walk on.
• It is advised to also wear footwear if paddling at low tide as weeverfish who live in the water can sting.

Getting there

• If travelling by car, take the A259 from near Rye onto Camber Road. The A259 is accessible via the M20 and A2070 if you're coming from the east or north, or the A27 from the west. Parking is available nearby, with three pay and display car parks nearby. The closest car park is Camber Central, but you can also park at Old Lydd Road or Western Car Park. The Satnav code for Camber Central car park is TN31 7RH.
• The nearest train station to Camber Sands is in Rye, which is just over four miles away. If heading from London, you can change at Ashford International.
• If travelling by bus, there are regular services that run through Camber, and to and from Rye.
• If cycling, the National Cycle Network Route 2 passes by the village of Camber, and up into Rye.