West Kirby is a beach on the western side of the Wirral, just opposite the tidal Hilbre Islands which lie about ¾ mile offshore. The beach is sandy, backed by a sea wall and promenade, with a marine lake for sailing and wind-surfing (not swimming). Lifeguards patrol daily from the end of May until the end of August (10 am to 6 pm). Dogs are allowed at all times, but the beach lies within a 'no alcohol' zone, and the consumption of alcoholic drinks is not allowed.
Most people make the pilgrimage to the islands (named Hilbre Island, Little Hilbre and Little Eye), where lifeguards are stationed during appropriate times. The islands are a nature reserve, and dogs must be kept on leads. The official advice for those seeking to make the trip is to leave West Kirby about 3½ hours after high tide to cross, and to leave the islands by 3½ hours before high tide for a safe return.
Facilities at the beach include toilets and a supermarket. Parking (free) is available all along the promenade and there is also a P&D car park at nearby Dee Lane. West Kirby rail station is about ½ mile away, and the village has a good parade of (mostly independent) shops.
