Why is Camber Sands Famous?
Camber Sands is known for its rare golden sandy beach, as most of the Sussex coastline is made up of shingle rather than sand.
It is one of the most photographed beaches in the South East and has been used in films, television productions and advertising due to its dramatic dunes and open landscape. At sunset, the beach offers some of the most striking coastal views in the region.
Where is Camber Sands?
Camber Sands is located on the East Sussex coast in the village of Camber, approximately 2 miles from Rye and around 12 miles from Hastings.
The beach stretches for almost five miles along the coastline and is backed by the largest sand dune system in East Sussex. Its vast size means there is usually plenty of space, even during busy summer periods.
Things to Do at Camber Sands
Relax on the Beach
Large stretches of sand make this ideal for sunbathing, family days and beach games.
Walk the Coastline
The long shoreline is perfect for coastal walks with views across the English Channel.
Explore the Sand Dunes
The dunes are a protected landscape and one of the most important natural features of Camber Sands.
Watersports
Kitesurfing, windsurfing and paddleboarding are popular due to strong and consistent coastal winds.
Photography
The dunes, open beach and sunsets make this one of the most photogenic locations in East Sussex.
Parking at the Beach
Parking is one of the most important things to plan before visiting, especially in summer.
There are three main council-run car parks:
- Central Car Park (TN31 7RH) – main beach access
- Old Lydd Road Car Park (TN31 7RH) – eastern access
- Western Car Park (TN31 7RB) – western end of the beach
Summer Parking (1 April – 30 September)
- Up to 1 hour: £6
- 1–3 hours: £12
- 3–6 hours: £24
- Over 6 hours: £30
Winter Parking
- Up to 1 hour: £1.50
- 1–3 hours: £4
- 3–6 hours: £6.75
- Over 6 hours: £8.25
Payment is available via RingGo or on-site machines.
Car park gates close at 8:00pm in summer, and overnight parking is not permitted.
Parking Tip
Arrive before 9:30am during weekends and school holidays to avoid queues and full car parks.
Free Parking Nearby
Broomhill Sands (Jury’s Gap) offers a free alternative parking area at the eastern end of the beach.
- Free parking (first come, first served)
- No toilets on site
- Short walk to Camber Sands
- Fills quickly in summer
Camber Sands Weather
Camber Sands is highly seasonal.
- Summer: busiest period with warm weather and long days
- Spring & Autumn: quieter and ideal for walking
- Winter: dramatic, empty beaches with strong winds
As the beach is fully exposed, conditions can change quickly. Always check the forecast before travelling.
Shops, Cafés and Facilities
Facilities are limited, so it is best to plan ahead.
- Village shops for groceries and essentials
- Nisa store at Parkdean Resorts for convenience items
- Seasonal cafés and kiosks near the beach entrances
- Oasis Beach Shop serving food, drinks and ice cream
Most facilities are seasonal, so bring supplies outside peak months.
Places to Eat Near Camber Sands
Dining options directly on the beach are limited, but nearby Camber and Rye offer more choice.
- Local cafés in Camber village
- The Gallivant restaurant
- Seasonal beach kiosks
- Restaurants, pubs and cafés in Rye
Rye is the strongest nearby dining destination with a wide range of independent restaurants.
Is Camber Sands Dog Friendly?
Camber Sands is popular with dog walkers throughout the year. Dogs are permitted on parts of the beach year-round, although seasonal restrictions apply to certain sections during the summer months.
The wide sandy shoreline provides plenty of space for walking, while the surrounding dunes offer additional routes to explore. Visitors should always check current restrictions before travelling and keep dogs under control around wildlife and other beach users.
Visiting from Hastings
Camber Sands is an easy day trip from Hastings, making it one of the most popular coastal destinations for visitors staying in the town.
Hastings offers excellent transport links and a wide range of accommodation, making it an ideal base for exploring Camber Sands, Rye and the wider East Sussex coast.
Tips for Visiting Camber Sands
- Arrive before 9:30am in summer
- Check tide times before visiting
- Expect busy parking on hot days
- Bring food, water and sun protection
- Be prepared for wind on exposed days
- Use Rye or nearby areas as backup parking options
Stay Near the Beach
Apollo Guest House provides comfortable accommodation in Hastings town centre, offering easy access to Camber Sands, Rye and many of East Sussex’s most popular attractions.
Whether you are planning a family beach day, coastal walk or weekend break, Camber Sands remains one of the best seaside destinations in Sussex.
Camber Sands Map
Use the map below to find beach access points, parking areas, cafés, shops and facilities before your visit.
FAQs
Q: Where is Camber Sands?
A: On the East Sussex coast near Camber village, around 2 miles from Rye and 12 miles from Hastings.
Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, three main council car parks plus free parking at Broomhill Sands.
Q: Can you swim at Camber Sands?
A: Yes, but always check sea conditions before entering the water.
Q: Is Camber Sands dog friendly?
A: Yes, with seasonal restrictions in some areas during summer.
Q: How long is the beach?
A: Around five miles of sandy coastline.
Choose Apollo Guest House For Accommodation
At the Apollo Guest House, you’ll have easy access to all the best that Hastings has to offer, thanks to its prime location. So if you’re looking for comfortable accommodation in the heart of this beautiful coastal town, look no further than the Apollo Guest House.
