Happisburgh Coast Watch

Call Directions Contact the organisation

Happisburgh Coast Watch The Happisburgh Coast Watch is a voluntarily manned station that is operational seven days a weeks show above the water line).

In 1990 the foundations were laid for what was to become the Happisburgh Coast Watch group and in 2020 it celebrated its 30th Anniversary. The coastline we cover extends from Sea Palling in the South East, to Mundesley to the North West. From our elevation on Cart Gap dunes, the horizon is approximately 6 miles and, visibility permitting, we can see all shipping passing between us and Haisborough Sands. This is a long and treacherous sand bank, running parallel to the coast, about 7 miles offshore. At low tide, parts of the sands are so shallow that they can dry-out (i.e. Beyond Haisborough Sands lies the Hewitt Gas field, and on clear days at least 3 rigs are visible even though the closest is 15 miles away. The majority of shipping that passes is commercial, heading to northern ports or the continent, and going south to Yarmouth and beyond. Rhine barges and other coasters carry a variety of cargos, bulk goods, oil, LPG gas, containers, and new cars. Rig support vessels and other shipping associated with the Oil and Gas industries, survey vessels and maritime patrol craft pass closer to our shores. The closest coastal traffic comprises private yachts and motor boats, dive boats (over 50 wrecks in the vicinity) fishing boats and fishing canoes/ kayaks, kite-surfers, jet-skiers, and small personal inflatables (in summer months). The Happisburgh CoastWatch is proud to be a member of the Sea Safety Group

You might have noticed "sea foam" when visiting the beach and wondered what it is. Sea foam is a bubbly white lather tha...
30/09/2026

You might have noticed "sea foam" when visiting the beach and wondered what it is.

Sea foam is a bubbly white lather that forms when breaking ocean waves,strong winds,and high tides whip air into seawater containing dissolved organic matter.
It is made up of decaying organic material—like algae, seaweed, proteins, and fats from marine life and can sometimes trap microplastics, detergents, or petroleum residues from human activity.

Sea foam is mostly harmless as it's completely natural and indicates a healthy, productive ocean ecosystem. However, it can create hidden hazards as large piles of foam can hide deep water, sharp rocks, or debris along the shoreline.

Thick, foul-smelling, or discoloured foam originating from harmful algae blooms can irritate skin or eyes and should be avoided.

Don't forget, our Coastwatch Cabin is manned daily, helping keep you safe on the coast. 🌊🛟👀🌊
Photo Credit : Sally Fox

Happy Autumn Equinox, which occurred at 1.04am today.  The water is around 17°c according to the Happisburgh Wave Rider,...
23/09/2026

Happy Autumn Equinox, which occurred at 1.04am today. The water is around 17°c according to the Happisburgh Wave Rider, so is still very welcoming, conditions allowing.
To check local sea temperature, you can visit :
https://wavenet.cefas.co.uk/details/365/EXT

Don't forget the Happisburgh Coast Watch Cabin is still manned daily from 9am to 6pm, helping keep you safe on the beach.

Our neighbours are having another 'do' and it's tomorrow! Don't miss your chance to see some of our local crew being int...
14/09/2026

Our neighbours are having another 'do' and it's tomorrow! Don't miss your chance to see some of our local crew being interviewed by David Whiteley of Anglia News.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1JpJsGCCMa/

FOR THE SECOND YEAR RUNNING….
We’re excited to announce that Happisburgh Lifeboat Station will be opening its doors for An Audience With The Crew, hosted by ITV Anglia David Whiteley!

Come along and hear stories from long serving and current sea-going crew about how lifeboat operations have changed over more than 200 years. There will anecdotes a-plenty from across the station as well as light refreshments.

You’ll also have the chance to meet some of our current volunteer crew, find out what we do and how we operate today

📅 Tuesday 15th September 2026
⏰ Doors open at 7:00pm
🎟️ FREE TO ATTEND
☕️ By donation
🍩🍪🍩 Bakes too!! Also by donation.

Whether you’re a lifelong supporter of the RNLI, fascinated by local history, or simply curious about how ordinary people have helped save lives along our coastline for generations, there’s something for everyone.

Come along, discover our history and meet the people continuing the lifesaving tradition today.

BOOKING IS RECOMMENDED. LIMITED WALK-IN SPACES MAY BE AVAILABLE.
Booking opens 26th August 2026 at 10:00am and closes 14th September 2026 at 3:00pm

🔗 Booking [https://norfolkhods.ticketsolve.com](https://norfolkhods.ticketsolve.com)

Please share this post with your friends and family and help us spread the word! 🙌

We are going out out!!On Saturday, 12th September, you will find some of our lovely volunteers at Sainsburys in North Wa...
10/09/2026

We are going out out!!

On Saturday, 12th September, you will find some of our lovely volunteers at Sainsburys in North Walsham, fundraising to enable us to continue our valuable work.
We will be there from 10am to 4pm. If you happen to be in the area, come and say hello and find out about Happisburgh Coast Watch and what we do to help keep you safe at the beach.
Photo Credit : Sally Fox

09/09/2026

Thas a blowin' out there !

The sea temperature is starting to drop very slightly as we head towards Autumn, and for the cold-water swimmers and dip...
08/09/2026

The sea temperature is starting to drop very slightly as we head towards Autumn, and for the cold-water swimmers and dippers, that means it will soon be a bit "bitey" when entering the water.

Just a reminder, it is not wise to dip alone at any time of the year but that said, always have your own swim. Do not be influenced by those around you to stay in longer than you are comfortable with. There are no set rules for how long you "should" be in the water. Everybody reacts differently to the cold water and what is good for your swim buddy, might not be good for you.

Always enter the water slowly, wear a bright hat and a bright swimsuit for visibility, and a tow float is always a good idea if conditions allow. A fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof pouch is also a good choice.

Enjoy your cold water dips but remember to have your own swim, and look out for your swim buddies.

Happisburgh Coast Watch maintain a presence in the cabin at Cart Gap on a daily basis, and whilst our hours do drop slightly over the winter, we are there to help keep you safe on the beach and in the water.

Photo Credit: Sally Fox

Address

Happisburgh Coast Watch Station
Happisburgh
NR120QL

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 6pm
Tuesday 9am - 6pm
Wednesday 9am - 6pm
Thursday 9am - 6pm
Friday 9am - 6pm
Saturday 9am - 6pm
Sunday 9am - 6pm

Telephone

+447503378494

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Happisburgh Coast Watch posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Organisation

Send a message to Happisburgh Coast Watch:

Shortcuts

Share