There is a fantastic selection of tranquil beaches to explore throughout west Norfolk, from Heacham and Old Hunstanton to Brancaster and, further east, Holkham. For a more lively seaside atmosphere, Hunstanton is a popular coastal resort for all ages with lots of beach-based activities, the guide below mostly pertaining to that particular beach.

Beach Safety

Be safe while visiting west Norfolk’s beaches and coastline. Some safety tips:

• Where available, a black and white chequered flag indicates an area of water for use by water craft. DO NOT swim or bathe in this zone.
• Children’s inflatables should always have a line connected, held securely by an adult on the shore.
• Always check the tide before you enter the water.

Remember to protect yourself against the sun’s rays: ‘Slip – Slap – Slop’:

• Slip on a shirt
• Slap on a hat
• Slop on sunscreen

Borough Council Safety Services

The Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk’s Resort Services team provide a range of services for the safety, enjoyment and welfare of visitors to Hunstanton and Heacham beaches during the summer season. They provide:

• A beach patrol service on the south prom at Hunstanton.
• Beach office next to the Alive Oasis Leisure Centre
• First aid and a lost child service.

In the event of an emergency always dial 999.

Beach Chalets

Located along Hunstanton’s North Promenade, each chalet offers you wonderful sea views across The Wash and your own guaranteed space away from the crowds on the beach. Chalets are available to hire throughout the summer season on a daily, weekly or seasonal basis. The chalets are an ideal base for a family trip to the beach. More information can be found on the Resort Services dedicated Chalets page.

Watercraft Information

Watersports are a popular pastime in west Norfolk. Hunstanton provides excellent conditions with its shallow sea and vast sand.

Look out for details of top watersports competitions and events. Most weekends Hunstanton has several kite surfers and wind boarders on the seas, great to sit back and watch or even have a go! If you are bringing your own personal watercraft to Hunstanton please check out the following information:

Launching of personal watercraft and powered boats in Hunstanton

If you are bringing your own personal watercraft to Hunstanton please remember that all users must obtain a permit before they can launch. Permits can be applied for through the Alive Oasis Sports & Leisure Centre or downloaded below. Powerboat owners can launch personal watercraft from the powerboat launch ramp in Hunstanton.

The following proposals have been developed in consultation with the relevant clubs and bodies, in order to ensure effective management of personal watercraft and powered boats using the launching ramps:

• All users must obtain a permit before they can launch.
• Permits can be applied for through the Alive Oasis Sports & Leisure Centre.
• Users must show data tag number (jet-skis), name of boat (powered boats) and valid insurance.
• For powered boats and jet-skis, RYA Level 2 must be held by each driver.
• SBDA certificate for British water-ski members.

To apply for a powered watercraft permit please complete the application form and return it to:

Resort Services
c/o Alive Oasis Sports & Leisure Centre
Central Promenade
Hunstanton PE36 5BD
Tel; 01485 535150

Dog Owners

Hunstanton

Dogs are not permitted on the beach, from the power boat ramp to the northern extremity of the promenade, between 10th April and 31st October.

Dogs on the promenade, The Green, Esplanade Gardens and the town centre, must be kept on a lead at all times and, under the dog fouling legislation, dog owners will also be required to remove dog faeces deposited by their dogs wherever they are in Hunstanton.

In and Around West Norfolk

Dogs are welcome in west Norfolk, but please check information on dog ban areas, waste bins, leash orders and lost/found dogs before your visit.

A privately-made free ‘Barking Bugle’ booklet about dog-friendly venues around Norfolk can be found on their official website.