Black Rock Sands

Even though the name suggests a dark beach, you won’t see much in the way of blackness. Black Rock Sands is an open, wide beach with fine sands. The name comes from the area to the west of the beach dominated by a large, multi-coloured headland rock, low-tide caves and rock pools, an area rich in marine life. Natural history is also a feature of the local sand dunes, which have been declared a ‘Site of Special Scientific Interest’. Unusually, you can drive onto the beach here – so it’s a popular spot not just for picnickers and sandcastle builders, but also for motor boats and water bikes which have a special zone designated for their use. There are also dog restrictions on the beach.

Parking irresponsibly and blocking roads near the beach will make it difficult for emergency services vehicles should they need to access the area.

All vehicles driving on the beach must not exceed the maximum speed limit of 10 M.P.H. and please be aware of the incoming tide if leaving any vehicle unattended.

Black Rock Sands Beach Safety Notice

Follow Adventure Smart and RNLI guidelines for safe enjoyment of our coast.

Be aware of the following dangers on Black Rock Sands beach. Look for the red signs which contain specific information for that part of the beach, including when and where dogs are allowed.

• Beware of strong currents
• Beware of powered craft
• Beware of manoeuvring vehicles on the beach
• Beware of tidal entrapment in caves and under cliffs
• Take care with inflatables in strong winds
• Fast flowing tide, beware of being trapped on the sandbanks by the incoming tide
• Steep shelving beach, beware of deep water in harbour channel
• Beware of power kites
• Do not swim in the launching area
• Do not dig or burrow in sand dunes

In an emergency, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard