Discover Dorset's Top Beaches

Dorset, with its picturesque landscapes and charming villages, is also the proud location of some of England's finest beaches. Half of its countryside is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and 75% of its coastline, known as the Jurassic Coast Natural World Heritage Site, is protected.

Whether you're looking to stumble upon fossils at Monmouth Beach in Lyme Regis or enjoy the 10 miles of golden sand at Bournemouth, Dorset is an ideal spot for a beach holiday in England.

1. Bournemouth Beach: West Cliff & East Cliff Beaches

Bournemouth boasts 10 miles of sandy beaches, with West Cliff Beach and East Cliff Beach being the most popular. West Cliff Beach is known for its traditional seaside attractions, while East Cliff Beach offers water sports like sea kayaking and kitesurfing.

Address: East & West Undercliff Drive, Bournemouth, Dorset

2. Weymouth Beach

Weymouth Beach is a family favorite with its wide, sandy beach and shallow waters. Entertainment ranges from music festivals to sandcastle contests, and there's no shortage of traditional seaside fun.

Location: Esplanade, Weymouth, Dorset

3. Lyme Regis Beach: Front Beach

Lyme Regis Beach, or Front Beach, is a sandy and pebble mix beach ideal for young children. It's protected by The Cobb, a historic harbor wall, and offers various visitor facilities.

Address: Marine Parade, Lyme Regis, Dorset

4. Chesil Beach, Puncknowle

Chesil Beach is an 18-mile long shingle beach that's less crowded and perfect for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts.

Address: Puncknowle, Dorchester, Dorset

5. Boscombe Beach

Boscombe Beach, close to Bournemouth, is a Blue Flag beach that's quieter and ideal for families and water sports lovers.

Address: Undercliff Drive, Boscombe, Dorset

6. Hengistbury Head Beach

Hengistbury Head Beach is a nature-focused beach with a Blue Flag award and offers a long stretch of sand for sunbathing and swimming.

Address: Hengistbury Head, Christchurch, Dorset

7. Charmouth Beach

Charmouth Beach offers two options: West Beach for fossil hunting and East Beach for family-friendly sandy shores.

Address: Lower Sea Lane, Charmouth, Bridport, Dorset

8. Lulworth Cove Beach, Wareham

Lulworth Cove Beach is a geological wonder with pebbly shores and clear blue waters, perfect for swimming and kayaking.

Location: West Lulworth, Wareham, Dorset

9. Shell Bay Studland, Swanage

Shell Bay Studland is a tranquil beach with white sand and is a favorite spot for kite surfers.

Address: Ferry Road, Studland, Swanage, Dorset

10. Monmouth Beach, Lyme Regis

Monmouth Beach is a pebble beach renowned for its fossils and the ammonite pavement visible at low tide.

Location: Cobb Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset

Whether you're a fossil hunter, a sun worshipper, or a water sports enthusiast, Dorset's beaches offer something for everyone, making it a perfect destination for a memorable beach holiday.