Sea, sand, action!

Set your pulse racing with an array of high-octane wind- and watersports, from jet skiing to sailing and surfing along the Kent coast. Make the most of good sailing waters from Margate to Whitstable and the Isle of Sheppey, skim the waves jet-skiing at Herne Bay. Joss Bay is a popular spot for surfing and hanging out with your mates. And there are ideal conditions for kitesurfing at Whitstable, Ramsgate and - great for beginners - Minnis Bay.

Perhaps your Kent break is a good time to get out of the rut and try something new. Transition Kiteboarding, based at Whitstable, runs courses that include kitesurfing and riding - there's nothing quite like the buzz of wellbeing after flying with the elements. Many of the world's best riders come to the area to train because of its natural shallow bays and flat waters, which suit windsurfers, too.

Alternatively stretch your legs and your imagination along the world-famous White Cliffs of Dover. Stretch your legs and your imagination walking the White Cliffs of Dover, 80 million years of geology beneath your feet, rare flora and fauna and ravishing views across the English Channel. Also in White Cliffs Country is Samphire Hoe, a wildlife haven reclaimed from the sea. Follow secluded footpaths, spot rare flowers and birds, linger over a picnic. Priceless!

Travel south and you can while away carefree hours shell hunting and bird watching on the sandy beaches around Dymchurch. The unique shingle bank of Dungeness is the largest shingle beach in Europe and around a third of all known plant species grow among the pebbles (have a look!). Head for the RSPB Nature Reserve at Dungeness to view spring and autumn migratory birds arriving in England.

And fancy an excursion out to sea? Bayblast will take you so see seal colonies and Wildlife Sailing offers bird and seal watching cruises, including the chance to actually swim with seals. Both are based at Herne Bay.

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