Can You Ride a Bike on a Beach?

Beach bike riding sounds dreamy, but you’ll need the right two wheels to enjoy the experience. Here’s what you need to know, along with FAQs, if you’re considering it for your next family bike ride or solo weekend ride.

Is It Okay to Ride a Bike on the Beach?

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Absolutely, but only on beaches where cycling is allowed. The good news is, several parts of the England Coast Path do allow it. Brighton and Hove, for one, has cycle paths where you can cruise along the coast.

Local rules can vary—each beach may have its own set of regulations. It’s crucial to do a bit of research before you pack your bike and head out. One way to check is by looking at the official website of the beach you’re interested in going to.

What Kind of Bike Can You Ride On the Beach?

Wheels designed with better traction on sand are best for beach bike riding. Fat tyres are great examples. They have a wide profile and low pressure, which creates a large contact area with the sand. In simple terms, the bike is less likely to sink.

A great alternative is tyres that are at least 2.5” wide, ideally with tread or patterns on the tyres’ surface. They’re wide enough to give you decent grip without being as bulky as full-fat tyres.

A hybrid bike can also work as an adult bike if you’re riding on firm, packed sand or beachside paths (more on this later). As the name suggests, it’s a mix of road and mountain bikes, with slightly wider tyres than standard road bikes.

When it comes to a kids bike, a balance bike is great for the little ones who are still learning. They can scoot along easily on hard sand without pedals getting in the way. For older children, a beach cruiser style with wider tyres is more suitable.

Wet Sand vs Dry Sand

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Wet sand is usually found near the waterline, where the waves have just receded. This makes it denser and more compact, and easier to ride on because the sand is firmer.

Dry sand, in contrast, is looser and fluffier. This can cause your bike to sink in, making it harder to ride through.

The verdict: Wet sand is best for beach bike riding as it provides a better surface, especially for fat tyres. You’ll want to be extra careful, though, and not to get too close to the surf, a.k.a. the area where the waves break on the beach. The sand there can be too soft, which makes pedalling trickier.

Is firm sand the same as wet sand?

No. Firm sand is compacted and solid and usually found further up the shore. It’s also more stable than dry, loose sand. If riding on wet sand isn’t a choice, we recommend cycling near the back of the beach instead.

Reminders for Beach Bike Riding

Here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable cycling along the coast:

Stay clear of seawater

Avoid getting your bike in contact with seawater as it can cause rust and damage the metal parts. If you do ride near the surf, give your bike a rinse with fresh water afterward to prevent any long-term damage.

Be aware of your surroundings

Rocks, shells, and hidden uneven surfaces can be found on beaches. If overlooked, they can lead to accidents. Keep an eye on the terrain and adjust your speed to avoid any sudden bumps or falls.

Wear protective gear

Always wear a bike helmet and gear, like knee and elbow pads, when riding on the beach. The soft sand may give the illusion of a gentle ride, but a fall can still cause injury.Looking for routes with a nice coastal view instead of riding right by the beach? Our guide to “Best Family-Friendly Bike Routes in the UK for Summer” can help with that.