Hunstanton Beaches
Hunstanton is the only coastal town in East Anglia to face west, and is renowned for its sunsets over the sea. It is also famous for its red and white striped cliffs. It has broad sandy beaches and there are plenty of rock pools to explore at the base of the cliffs and around the groynes.
The quality of its beaches has been recognised in its 2008 and 2009 Quality Coast Awards. The Awards recognise those coastal resorts that provide the very best standards for their visitors and Hunstanton has been accredited in the following areas:
- Water quality
- Risk assessment and provision of public rescue equipment in peak season
- Beach cleanliness and provision of litter bins
- Disabled, pram and pushchair access where reasonable
- Provision of well maintained toilets for all
- Signed car parking
- Enforcement of dog ban/control order
- Information points located at main beach access points
Hunstanton main beach also received the highest grade of 'recommended' in the MCS Good Beach Guide 2009 for the quality of its bathing water.
The Promenade
The north promenade at Hunstanton is bordered by large elegant Victorian and Edwardian houses. On the central promenade you will find the funfair and Sea Life Sanctuary.
Seafront
Along Hunstanton seafront are stalls selling candyfloss, doughnuts, seaside rock, ice creams, buckets & spades, and all the other paraphernalia needed for the beach. On Sunday afternoons a band often plays in the bandstand on the green overlooking the beach, serenading sunbathers and passers-by.
Rides
You can also go for a donkey ride, take a trip around Hunstanton on the land train, or a sea tour on a World War II amphibious craft.
Kite Surfing
Old Hunstanton beach is a popular venue for the exciting sport of kite surfing. It also takes place at Brancaster, seven miles east along the coast.
Beach Huts
To rent a beach chalet on Hunstanton seafront, contact Oasis Leisure Centre. The beach huts at Old Hunstanton are privately owned.
Tides and Weather
Please be aware of the tide times and weather conditions so that you don't have to call out the lifeboat based at Old Hunstanton! See BBC Weather: Tide Tables: Hunstanton and Hunstanton Weather Station.
Facilities
A beach patrol operates on Hunstanton main beach in the summer months to help you have a safe and fun trip. First aid and a lost child service is also available.
There are ramps onto the beach and toilets for people with disabilities.
Dogs are banned from the main beach. Dog bins are provided on the promenade.
Cycling is banned between the 'pier' (tenpin bowling alley) and the jet ski launch ramp.