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’s always a jet skiing adventure in range.
Explore our list of the 12 best jet ski locations across the UK including in the South of England, North of England, Wales and Scotland. So whichever direction you're heading in, we've got you and your jet ski covered.
Where can I use my jet ski in the UK?
Unlike many countries, there are very few restrictions on where you can use a jet ski in UK waters. Local regulations may prevent access to areas on environmental grounds, such as during bird breeding season. There may also be speed limits and no-noise zones.
However, a major change to the law in 2023 means that jetskis are now covered by the Merchant Shipping Act, which puts an emphasis on jet ski users to operate safely. That means obeying the “rules of the road”, as the Collision Regulations are known, to avoid accidents on the water.
It also means that jet ski operators can be fined and imprisoned if they are found to be using their personal watercraft (PWC) dangerously. This is to reduce jet ski accidents and put the sport on the same legal footing as sailing or motorboating.
Do you need a license to jet ski in the UK?
There is no need to obtain a jet ski license before taking to the water in your PWC. That said, it’s wise to take some jet ski training, and most rental centres will want proof that you know what you’re doing before they lend you a machine. You are often expected to show the RYA’s PWC Certificate of Competence.
Read our full guide on jet ski rules and regulations.
What makes for a good jet skiing spot?
Part of the joy of having a jet ski is how easy it is to transport, so it’s good to try out several different cruising grounds. Some basic features will determine how good a location is.
Launch site. You need to get the jet ski off the trailer and into the water easily. The best bet is at a public or marina slipway that allows you to reverse the trailer into the water. You can find a map of UK slipways here. But with the right trailer and smooth, hardpacked sand, you can also beach launch.
Protected 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.
Beaches. It’s fantastic fun to use the jet ski to reach a quiet beach or secluded cove, where you can go for a dip. Or perhaps you want to go for a walk ashore. 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.
Fuel. Knowing where you can refuel after a day’s use on the jet ski is useful. If you’re using it intensively, you may need to fill up during the day, so bring a jerry can or identify a marina or fuel berth where you can top up on the water.
So, you’ve got your jet ski (or your Certificate of Competence), packed your best wetsuit, lifejacket and a change of clothes – what next? Here is our pick of the best places to jet ski in England and the UK.
Best places to jet ski
New Brighton Beach, Wallasey
New Brighton Beach is one of the best jet ski locations in the north. There’s plenty to explore on the water here, including the Liverpool Waterfront and the Wirral Peninsula.
As well as jet skiing, you can 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 shops and restaurants.
Top tip: while there are useful free facilities at the beach, you 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.
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 thanks to the welcoming Colwyn Bay Jet Ski Club. Here, you can get beginner lessons, tips from old hands and a tractor launch/recovery. Make it your base for a family holiday!
Falmouth, Cornwall
Falmouth is one of the UK’s most popular and picturesque water sports destinations, at the mouth of the beautiful Fal Estuary. This is one of Cornwall’s best-known sailing spots, with a rich maritime tradition and the sort of scenery that inspired author Daphne du Maurier.
The town itself has several marinas with slipways, but the whole river is ringed with them. There are nationally renowned fish restaurants here, museums and fine gardens to visit, making it a great spot for a longer holiday.
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.
It’s important to note that before you can head out onto the water, you must first register your jet ski with the local Harbour Authority for a fee of £23.
Abersoch, Gwynedd, Wales
This is a very popular area for water sports fans, and it’s not hard to see why, with its impressive beaches and sheltered bay. There are several slipways, but take care, as access to the main one is locked in the evenings.
Abersoch is a great place to visit, with many relaxing restaurants and local walks, plus a golf course nearby. But the main attraction is the Llyn Peninsula’s beautiful coastline, including 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 this 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.
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 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.
Scarborough North Bay, Yorkshire
Scarborough is a quintessential British seaside resort with a miniature railway and sealife centre. It features two beautiful sandy beaches surrounded by impressive views and scenery, and there are 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.
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. 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 the 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, and a daily launch fee of £22. Full details here
Pentewan Sands, Cornwall
With a beach that stretches over half a mile, this is a 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 a great place to visit and have a look around.
Southwold Pier, Suffolk
With good reason, Southwold Pier is one of Suffolk’s most popular tourist resorts. 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.
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, what a treat awaits! 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 nearby. Lerwick itself is a beautiful town with plenty to do – from dining to exploring Norse history.
Portrush, County Derry/Londonderry
Northern Ireland offers many spectacular coastlines, and Portrush is a case in point. Its broad sandy beaches are great for surfing, and a special jet ski zone is nearby Banone Strand. Explore the neighbouring Lough Foyle or head east to the stunning Giant’s Causeway if conditions allow.
Banone 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
When you’re heading out with your jet ski this summer, it’s important that you have the right insurance. Our specialist jet ski insurance will cover you against theft, loss and damage. That means you can spend more time out enjoying the water instead of worrying about protecting your jet ski.
You can also opt to include Third Party Liability and contents protection, so you have nothing to worry about when cruising the waterways.
Click here to discover more about how we can help, or get an instant online quote today.
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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.
