St Margaret's Bay

One of the British mainland's closest points to France, this shingle beach provides the start or finish of many cross-Channel swims. Funnelling and tidal effects in the narrow straits make it windy too – often 5 knots stronger than Camber. The windline from the cliffs means the spot is rarely kited, and it's best windsurfed towards low tide to avoid the worst currents. It's not the most powerful beach-break, so the best sailing is just around the headland to the south where strong winds form a huge rolling swell further offshore.