First time visiting Camber Sands? This guide covers opening hours, parking, accessibility, and things to do at this popular East Sussex beach.
Why visit Camber Sands?
Often called the closest sandy beach to London, Camber Sands stands out from most beaches in the South-East, which are usually pebbly or shingly. It’s also five miles long, so you’ll always be able to walk to a quiet-ish spot on the beach. If, of course, you can get your car parked.
How to get to Camber Sands
By car: Use postcode TN31 7RB for the Western Car Park. Camber Sands is approximately a 2-hour drive from London via the A259. Note that parking charges apply in the main car parks.
By train: The nearest station is Rye, about 3 miles away. From there, you can take a taxi or the 711 bus to Camber Sands.
By bus: The 711 bus service runs from Rye to Camber Sands, providing a convenient option for public transport users.
Camber Sands opening hours
Beach Access:
- Summer Season (Good Friday to the first Sunday in October): The beach is technically accessible 24 hours a day, but if coming by car, it’s realistically from 08:30 to 20:00. Car parks are open during these hours, but may close earlier if they reach capacity. And they often do in the school holidays.
- Winter Season (first Monday in October to Good Friday): Beach remains accessible, but parking is limited to the coach park area. There’s no access for taller vehicles due to height barriers.
Parking at Camber Sands
There are three main car parks serving the beach: Western Car Park, Camber Central, and Old Lydd Road. All are managed by Rother District Council and require payment via RingGo or pay-and-display machines. Be warned if arriving in summer, the parking rates are steep.
Parking Charges (as of September 2025):
- Summer (1 April – 30 September):
- Up to 1 hour: £6.00
- 1 – 3 hours: £12.00
- 3 – 6 hours: £24.00
- Over 6 hours: £30.00
- Winter (1 October – 31 March):
- Up to 1 hour: £1.50
- 1 – 3 hours: £4.00
- 3 – 6 hours: £6.75
- Over 6 hours: £8.25
Note: Parking fees are subject to change, and it’s advisable to check the latest rates via the Rother District Council website before your visit. On busy days, car parks may close early if they reach capacity.
Accessibility and visitor facilities
- Wheelchair Access: The main access paths to the beach are sandy and will be challenging for wheelchairs. Some areas have wooden walkways, but these are limited.
- Toilets: Public toilets, including accessible facilities, are available near the main car parks. They are regularly cleaned and maintained.
- Food and Drink: There are several cafés and shops in Camber village offering refreshments and meals.
- Dog-Friendly: Dogs are welcome on the beach but must be kept on a lead during the summer months (1 May – 30 September). Outside these dates, dogs can roam freely.
Things to do at Camber Sands
- Water Sports: Camber Sands is a popular spot for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. Local providers such as the Kitesurf Centre offer equipment hire and lessons.
- Swimming: The beach is suitable for swimming, but be aware of changing tides and currents. Always check tide times before entering the water.
- Sand Dunes: Explore the extensive sand dune system on nature walks.
- Photography: The beach provides excellent opportunities for landscape photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the historic town of Rye, just a short drive away, known for its cobbled streets, antique shops, and medieval architecture.
FAQ: Practical questions
- Are the paths wheelchair-friendly? Some areas have wooden walkways, but many paths are sandy and are not suitable for most wheelchairs.
- Is there accessible parking? Yes, there are designated accessible parking spaces near the main car parks.
- Can I bring my own food? Yes, picnic areas are available, and there are cafés and shops in the village.
- When is it quietest? Weekday mornings, especially outside the school holidays, tend to be quieter.
- Are dogs allowed? Yes, but they are not permitted on a large chunk of the beach near Camber village during the summer months (1 May – 30 September). Outside these dates, dogs can roam freely.
