Things to Do on the Sussex Coast

There are so many things to do on the Sussex coast, whether your perfect day involves a sandy beach, a bracing coastal walk or a riverside walk. From the iconic white chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters to the vibrant energy of Brighton’s seafront, Sussex offers a truly spectacular coastline. Yet its appeal extends far beyond the shore, encompassing the tranquil beauty of Chichester Harbour, Rye Harbour Nature Reserve and serene rivers that meander through the South Downs.

Maverick Boat Adventures at Seven Sisters Cliffs

Whether you’re planning a classic day at the seaside, fancy getting out on the water or prefer a walk with a sea view, there’re plenty of ways to enjoy the Sussex coast. Having lived in Sussex all my life, I’ve explored much of the coastline from Camber Sands in the east to Chichester Harbour in the west, on foot, from the beach and sometimes from the water.

Here are some of the best things to do on the Sussex coast and waterways, with ideas for beaches, boat trips, watersports, wildlife and some of our loveliest coastal towns.

Classic Seaside Pleasures: Beaches and Piers

Sand dunes at West Wittering beach, West Sussex — Sand dunes at West Wittering

Nothing says ‘British holiday’ quite like a day at the seaside, and Sussex delivers this classic experience in spades. For those who love the feeling of sand between their toes, the vast, golden dunes of Camber Sands and West Wittering are simply idyllic, offering space to play, picnic, and paddle. In contrast, you’ll find our Sussex shingle beaches in towns like Brighton and Eastbourne, where the rhythmic sound of waves pulling over pebbles provides the perfect coastal soundtrack.

No seaside trip is complete without a stroll along an iconic Victorian pier. At Brighton Palace Pier you can enjoy the noisy fun of the arcades, while Worthing Pier offers a more sedate, Art Deco elegance perfect for a gentle walk and soaking up the panoramic views. Finish your day with a portion of salty, vinegar-doused fish and chips, and you’ll have captured the essence of the Sussex coast.

Brighton Palace Pier, Brighton, East Sussex — Brighton Palace Pier

Sussex has a wonderfully varied coastline, so choosing where to go depends on the kind of beach day you have in mind. Our guides to the best beaches in East Sussex and the best beaches in West Sussex cover everything from family-friendly seaside resorts to our quieter stretches of coast. If sand is a non-negotiable, take a look at our complete guide to Camber Sands, home to some of the most impressive dunes in Sussex.

Making a Splash: Watersports and Activities

If your idea of enjoying the water is a little more hands-on, Sussex is a premier destination for watersports. The county’s coastline provides the perfect conditions for a wide range of thrilling activities. Beaches like Lancing, Camber and Bracklesham Bay are renowned hotspots for kitesurfing and windsurfing, with the reliable sea breeze attracting enthusiasts from all over the country.

Sussex watersports are varied and for something a little less extreme, the calmer waters found in sheltered coves are ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking, offering a fantastic way to explore the shoreline from a different perspective. Always check local tide times before you head out on any Sussex coastal activities.

Inland, The Rother and Cuckmere rivers are nicely sheltered for paddle-boarding with equipment hire from Bodiam Boating Station and Buzz Active which is based by Seven Sisters Country Park visitor centre.

Many coastal towns have centres offering lessons and equipment hire, making it easy for beginners to get started. It’s an incredible way to connect with the sea, and many find themselves hooked on the lifestyle.

For those who fall in love with life on the water and are considering their own vessel, exploring a range of day boats for sale is a great next step and there are plenty of harbours with moorings at many places along the Sussex coast.

Boat trips are another brilliant way to experience our coastline. I recently took a trip out from Newhaven Marina on a high-speed RIB trip to see the Seven Sisters cliffs from the water. Seeing those iconic white chalk cliffs rising above the sea gives you a completely different perspective on one of Sussex’s best-know landmarks.

Sussex boat trips range from gentle motoring around Eastbourne Marina to wild RIB rides in the sea, river boat rides or trips out to the Rampion Wind Farm where you might be lucky enough to see dolphins.

Terrace overlooking Brighton Marina with boats in the water and a building in the background. A yellow and white striped parasol is on the terrace along with chairs and tables

A Quieter Pace: Rivers, Harbours and Estuaries

Sussex rivers and harbours are many, and beyond the exhilarating waves of the English Channel lies a network of peaceful inland waterways offering a more tranquil experience. Chichester Harbour, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is a paradise for sailors and nature lovers alike.

Its sheltered tidal creeks and salt marshes create a serene landscape best explored by boat or on foot. You can wander through charming sailing villages like Bosham and Itchenor, where colourful boats bob gently on their moorings and time seems to slow down.

A boat sits on the single at Bosham in West Sussex. In the back ground are houses lining the estuary with the church spire in the background — Bosham, near Chichester

Further inland, the River Arun meanders through the stunning West Sussex countryside. A gentle boat trip from the historic town of Arundel provides breathtaking views of its magnificent castle from the water. Alternatively, the riverside pathways offer wonderful opportunities for a peaceful walk, allowing you to immerse yourself in the gentle ebb and flow of country life away from the bustling coast.

Over in East Sussex, the meandering Cuckmere River creates one of the county’s most recognisable landscapes as it winds through the South Downs towards Cuckmere Haven and the Seven Sisters, the most famous of Sussex coastal walks. It’s a beautiful area to explore on foot, with riverside paths leading towards the coast and some outstanding views along the way. The charming village of Alfriston makes a great base for exploring the area.

Cuckmere river with the town of Alfriston in the background and the spire of St Andrews peeping through trees — The Cuckmere at Alfriston

Discovering Coastal and Wetland Wildlife

Sussex’s diverse aquatic landscapes are a haven for wildlife, making it a fantastic destination for nature enthusiasts and families. The county is home to several nationally important nature reserves where you can witness incredible spectacles of the natural world.

At RSPB Pagham Harbour, vast wetlands attract huge flocks of migrating birds, waders, and wildfowl, with accessible hides providing fantastic viewing opportunities. Further inland, the Arundel Wetland Centre allows you to get up close to a huge variety of birdlife from around the globe.

Pagham Harbour Nature Reserve. A little egret wades through mud banks — Pagham Harbour, Near Chichester in West Sussex

Keep your eyes peeled along the coast, too. Harbour seals are often spotted hauled out on the sandbanks at Chichester Harbour, and you might even be lucky enough to see a porpoise or dolphin offshore. To learn more about the incredible biodiversity of the region and conservation efforts, the Sussex Wildlife Trust website is an excellent resource for planning a nature-focused day out.

Beyond the Water’s Edge: Charming Coastal Towns

Cocktail bar at Grand Hotel, Eastbourne — Eastbourne Pier, East Sussex

When you’re ready to dry off and explore on foot, the coastal and riverside towns of Sussex are destinations in their own right. Step back in time as you wander the medieval, cobbled streets of Rye, with its half-timbered houses, independent shops and historic inns.

From here you’re also within easy reach of Rye Habour Nature Reserve and the huge sweep of sand and dunes at Camber Sands, making it easy to combine town and coast in one day.

Further west, Eastbourne combines a traditional seafront and Victorian pier with easy access to Beachy Head, Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters, making it an excellent base for exploring the East Sussex coast.

For a completely different atmosphere, immerse yourself in the bohemian, creative energy of Brighton, exploring the independent boutiques and art galleries of The Lanes. Or, discover the historic grandeur of Arundel, where the magnificent castle towers over the River Arun, surrounded by antique shops and cosy, traditional pubs, rounding out the perfect waterside experience. It’s one of the most popular places to visit on the Sussex coast.

Brighton Seafront on a busy sunny day. People walk along the promenade and a fishing boat sits outside the Fishing Museum. On the left are the arches with people sitting on deckchairs. Seagulls fly in the air — Brighton Seafront

Of course you don’t need to get onto or into the water to enjoy it, there are plenty of things to do by the water in Sussex. Some of the best coastal experiences in Sussex come with walking boots attached! The Seven Sisters and Cuckmere Haven offer some of the most dramatic coastal walks in southern England, while gentler seafront promenades can be found in Eastbourne, Worthing, Brighton and Hove.

Away from the busy resorts, our coastal paths, harbours and nature reserves offer plenty of opportunities for shorter walks with sea views, wildlife and, importantly, somewhere good to stop for lunch afterwards.

Of course, the coast is only part of what Sussex has to offer. Head inland and you’ll find castles, vineyards, pretty villages and miles of South Downs countryside. For more inspiration, take a look at our guide to the best things to do in Sussex and start planning your next day out.