Over 7,000 miles of coastline and more than 1,000 islands make UK waters some of the most interesting in the world for jet skiing. Even better, nowhere in the country is more than 70 miles from the sea, so there are always great places to jet ski in range.
Whether you're thinking of buying a jet ski or have already bought one, explore our list of the 12 best places for jet skiing across the UK below. But first, let's remind ourselves of the rules and regulations on where you can use your jet ski in the UK.
Where can I jet ski in the UK?
Unlike many other countries, there are very few restrictions on where you can use a jet ski in UK waters. However, local regulations may prevent access to areas on environmental grounds, such as during bird breeding seasons. There may also be speed limits and no-noise zones.
Jet skis are covered by the Merchant Shipping Act, which means that jet ski owners are legally responsible for operating their watercraft safely. The "rules of the road" at sea (or the Collision Regulations, as they’re officially known) must be obeyed to avoid accidents and injuries on the water.
The regulations also mean that jet ski operators can be fined and even imprisoned if they are found to be using their personal watercraft (PWC) dangerously. This aims to reduce jet ski accidents and put the sport on the same legal footing as sailing or motorboating.
How do you choose the best places to jet ski?
One of the benefits of having a jet ski is that they’re easy to transport, so it's good to try out several different cruising grounds. Some basic features and attributes will determine how good a location is, though, such as:
- The launch site: You need to get the jet ski off the trailer and into the water easily. The best bet is usually at a public or marina slipway where you can reverse the trailer into the water. You can find a map of UK slipways here. But with the right trailer and smooth, hard-packed sand, you can also beach launch.
- Calm waters: Most riders love the buzz of going fast along relatively flat waters. That means picking the right forecast for your location or choosing somewhere protected by a natural harbour, estuary, or river. Waters with low boat traffic and weak tides are ideal for beginners.
- Beautiful beaches and harbours: It's great to use your jet ski to reach quiet beaches, secluded coves or to go for a walk ashore. However, just remember that the tide will rise or fall, so you need to anchor it carefully in enough water depth - you don't want it settling on the seabed or floating free of its anchor.
Where are the best places to jet ski in the UK?
1. New Brighton Beach, Wallasey
New Brighton Beach is one of the best places to jet ski in the north of England. There’s plenty to explore on the water here, including the Liverpool Waterfront and the Wirral Peninsula.
As well as jet skiing, you can also get stuck into many other activities, such as fishing, canoeing, or general boating. There’s also a £60m leisure development called Marine Point at neighbouring New Brighton, with a range of shops and restaurants, too.
Top tip: While there are useful free facilities at the beach, you may have to pay to use the jet ski launch pad during the summer. So, make sure you bring your wallet if you’re planning on visiting.
2. Colwyn Bay, Wales
With the wide-open horizons of the Irish Sea in front and the dramatic mountain scenery of North Wales behind, Colwyn Bay is a gem of a jet skiing spot. It boasts broad beaches and a Victorian Pier, and there are lots of interesting coastlines to get your teeth into.
Families and those new to jet skiing will particularly enjoy this spot. Not only because of the protected waters, but also thanks to the welcoming Colwyn Bay Jet Ski Club. Here, you can get beginner lessons, tips from old hands and a tractor launch/recovery. It makes a great base for a family holiday!
3. Falmouth, Cornwall
Falmouth is one of the UK’s most popular and picturesque watersports destinations, at the mouth of the beautiful Fal Estuary. This is one of Cornwall’s best-known sailing spots and one of several places to go jet skiing in Cornwall. It has a rich maritime tradition and the sort of scenery that inspired author Daphne du Maurier.
The town has several marinas with slipways, but the whole river is ringed with them. There are nationally renowned fish restaurants here, too, as well as museums and fine gardens, making it a great spot for a longer holiday.
4. Torbay, South Devon
Considering it boasts more than 20 miles of coastline, it's no surprise Torbay is one of the UK's most popular jet skiing locations. While there, you can visit the famous seaside towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, which have plenty of tourist attractions along their waterfronts.
However, it's important to note that before heading out onto the water, you must register your jet ski with the local Harbour Authority for a fee of £23. (Prices may vary so always double check before travelling).
5. Abersoch, Gwynedd, Wales
This is another popular area for watersports fans, and it's easy to see why, with its impressive beaches and sheltered bay. There are several slipways, but take care, as access to the main one is usually locked in the evenings.
Abersoch is a great place to visit, with many relaxing restaurants, local walks, and a golf course nearby. But the main attraction is of course, the Llyn Peninsula's beautiful coastline, which includes the two islands of St Tudwal's – one of which is said to belong to Bear Grylls!
Top tip: If you plan on visiting Abersoch during the summer, aim to arrive early before it gets too busy. Even if you get there and find it packed, there are plenty of comfortable beach huts where you can relax and enjoy the scenery until fewer people are around.
6. Mudeford Quay, Dorset
Not only is this a great location to visit during the summer, but it’s also the perfect place to take your jet ski all year round. Suppose you join the Mudeford Personal Watercraft Club as well. In that case, you can cover many coastlines, including the scenic Poole Harbour and Swanage Bay.
The Quay also has impressive places to eat and drink, with amazing views from Christchurch Bay to the Isle of Wight. If you want to escape from it all and unwind in pleasant surroundings, you won’t go wrong with Mudeford Quay.
7. Scarborough North Bay, Yorkshire
Scarborough is the quintessential British seaside resort with a miniature railway and a Sealife centre. It has two beautiful sandy beaches surrounded by impressive views and scenery, and plenty of opportunities to swim in the open water.
From the beach, you can also see the ruins of Scarborough Castle, which was built in the 11th century. On summer evenings, when the beach becomes a little quieter, you can kick back and enjoy fine views of the castle while the sun sets.
8. Menai Bridge, Anglesey
If you're looking for somewhere with plenty to offer on land and at sea, you need to head to Anglesey.
The Menai Bridge is the world's first iron suspension bridge—an amazing place to launch your jet ski. But be warned, as the Menai Strait is strongly tidal and not for the faint-hearted. However, careful planning gives access to beautiful stretches along the Anglesey coastline. The bridge is also a short walk from Menai Bridge town centre, with various local attractions, restaurants, and bars.
Good to know: Anglesey operates a jet ski register, which you must comply with. Registration costs £70, with a daily launch fee of £22. Prices may vary, so always double check before travelling.
9. Pentewan Sands, Cornwall
With a beach stretching over half a mile, this is another great place to hit the water. Because it faces the East, the waters in this area are generally well protected against the winds and tides, so you'll not have to wait long to get good conditions.
There's a slipway, a café, toilets, and car parking here. If you want to take in some sights while you're there, Pentewan Village at the north end of Pentewan Sands is also worth a look around.
10. Southwold Pier, Suffolk
Southwold Pier is one of Suffolk's most popular tourist resorts, and for good reason. The beach has won several Blue Flag awards over the years, and it has a promenade leading you nicely into the town.
If you don't fancy a beach launch, there's easy launching via the slipway at Southwold Sailing Club, but speak to the Harbourmaster first. Harbour dues of £4.60 are payable. Prices may vary, so always double check before using the harbour.
11. Lerwick, Shetland
You're well off-piste this far north, so you'd better have the clothing and experience to handle remote waters. But if you do, it's certainly worth it! Breathtaking scenery, deserted beaches, and abundant wildlife make Shetland an adventurer's dream. There is a slipway at the Port of Lerwick, and most facilities you could need are nearby. Lerwick is a beautiful town with plenty to do – from dining to exploring Norse history.
12. Portrush, County Derry/Londonderry
Northern Ireland offers many spectacular coastlines, and Portrush is certainly one of them. Its broad, sandy beaches are great for surfing, and there’s a special jet ski zone at nearby Benone Strand. Explore the neighbouring Lough Foyle or head east to the stunning Giant's Causeway if conditions allow.
Benone would require a beach launch, but Portrush or Derry/Londonderry slipways are nearby. Portrush has vibrant shops and restaurants, and the world's oldest licensed distillery – Bushmills – lies nearby.
Specialist jet ski insurance through Insure4Boats
Before heading out with your jet ski this summer, you may want to consider getting specialist jet ski insurance. Specialist jet ski insurance through Insure4Boats will cover you against theft, loss, damage, and more. That means you can spend more time out enjoying the water instead of worrying about protecting your jet ski.
Learn more about specialist jet ski insurance through Insure4Boats or get an instant online quote today.
Please note the information provided on this page should not be taken as advice and has been written as a matter of opinion. For more on insurance cover and policy wording, see our homepage.
