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Calypso Rose 14/02/2025
I spend half my time in Deal, sweeping shingle beaches and a
lovely little highstreet filled with antiques. We are close enough to Margate for a vibey night out or
Broadstairs for traditional seaside fun. In the spring, Deal beaches bloom with big, wafting daisies,
and no matter the season, the sea is always different—sometimes wild and grey, other times calm and
silvery. Even on the grimmest day I find it breathtaking. I swim most days, all year round, unless the
North wind is truly vile. And whenever I find myself near the coast, I can't resist the urge for a quick
dip—even if it’s just a for a couple of minutes.
Since spending more time by the sea, I’ve
discovered so many activities that really bring me joy.
Family fun adventures and days out to workshops and lessons guided by
real experts.
Here are my favourite things to do by the seaside:
Free & Simple
Joys
1. Stone Hunting & Beachcombing – Looking for
perfectly round stones is unexpectedly mindful, and once you get your eye in, it's thrilling. You’ll
also spot fascinating finds like Ray and Dogfish egg cases, as well as different seaweeds (all edible!).
2. Prawning at Low Tide – With just a large prawn net, you can wade into
the shallows and catch up to 2kg of prawns in the summer. There's nothing quite as rewarding as cooking
and eating your own catch right on the beach.
3. Wild Swimming – The sea is
home to an army of dedicated wild swimmers, wrapped in Dryrobes and Crocs, ready to take on the
elements. It’s invigorating, adventurous, and filled with camaraderie. If I had to sum up The Indytute
in one activity, this would be it!
Unforgettable Seaside Experiences
4. Foraging &
Feasting with Lucia (Near Margate) – A day of discovering seaweed followed by picking and
eating oysters and mussels. Plus a divine six-course foraged feast. I did this with a group of
girlfriends, and although it tipped it down it really remains etched in my heart, a day to remember. If
you’re feeling adventurous Lucia also does a bike tour to cover more
ground.
5. Brighton Vegan Wine Tasting & Seafront Sauna – I hadn’t
realised wine wasn’t always vegan until this experience! Start your day with a beachfront sauna, then
head to a cosy wine bar for a tasting session that’s both educational and
delicious.
6. Mosaic Making in Margate – A creative and deeply meditative
workshop with Amy, who has adorned Margate with her stunning mosaic work. I spent a day creating a large
pastel sign for my house, it's very cool — harder than expected but incredibly rewarding.
I never get tired of looking and being in the sea, dipping our toes, collecting treasures, or learning something new. All the activities are love are rather serene but of course there's always the speed boat trips round Dover or the jetskiing - both make great gifts for teens. If you are a food lover, or creative soul—there’s always something wonderful to do by the water and Deal, Margate or Brighton is a great place to start!
