Sandy beaches in Dorset

Stretching nearly 100 miles, the Jurassic Coast in Dorset has an abundance of stunning sandy bays and some of the UK’s most jaw-dropping landscapes. Much of it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (a status shared with the Great Barrier Reef and the Grand Canyon) thanks to the area’s unique geology, outstanding rock formations, and important fossil sites. It’s the perfect place to try fossil hunting and, with marine life like seals, dolphins and porpoises making their home amongst the waves, there are plenty of opportunities for wildlife-spotting too. 

This county has a great variety of sand, shingle and pebble beaches – but if golden sands are your favourite, read on to discover the best sandy beaches in Dorset, from famous bays to hidden coves.

Durdle Door and Man O’War, West Lulworth 

Perhaps the most iconic landmark on the Jurassic Coast, and certainly the most photographed, Durdle Door is an extraordinary natural rock archway, first carved by erosion around 140 million years ago. Durdle Door Beach is shingle, and less than half a mile away to the east side, you can reach the picturesque cove of Man O’ War, which is a mix of sand and fine pebbles. Access to Man O’ War is via a steep footpath and there are no amenities or lifeguards, meaning it’s often quieter than its neighbouring beach – and the views are out of this world.

If you’re seeking an ocean adventure, the crystal clear waters at both Durdle Door and Man O’War are great for snorkelling. Experienced kayakers can also paddle right out under the archway for a close-up look at the Durdle Door arch. 

Lulworth Cove, West Lulworth

Not far over the cliffs from Durdle Door and Man O’War lies another of Dorset’s most famous beaches, Lulworth Cove. This perfectly curved, horseshoe-shaped bay has turquoise waters lapping at its shores, making it an idyllic beauty spot to relax and enjoy a refreshing dip or a snorkel (there’s no lifeguard service, so be aware of tide times and conditions). There are also wonderful rock pools teeming with sea creatures for wildlife-enthusiasts to observe. Accompanying Lulworth Cove’s blanket of pretty white pebbles are golden sandy patches along the beach, complemented by a backdrop of breathtaking scenery. 

Lulworth is a popular area with walkers, with stunning panoramic views from the South West Coast Path and some fantastic photo opportunities. For convenience, there are comfort facilities in the nearby visitor centre too.

Front Beach, Lyme Regis

Lyme Regis is a beautiful seaside town and one of Dorset's most famous fossil sites. Palaeontologist Mary Anning was born in the town and is particularly famous for discovering an incredibly well-preserved, 195-million-year-old Ichthyosaur fossil in Lyme Regis (the first to be found in England) when she was just 12 years old. You can follow in her footsteps and go scouring Lyme Regis’s four beaches and the ammonite pavement, visible at low tide. Or visit the Lyme Regis Museum for fascinating fossil exhibits and to learn more about the town's rich history.

Front Beach in the heart of the town is an idyllic sandy beach to settle for the day, with a backdrop of colourful beach huts and shallow waters perfect for swimming. Lifeguards are at the beach in the summer months, from early July to September. There’s a long flat promenade next to the beach too, ideal for a stroll with an ice cream. 

Weymouth Beach, Weymouth

For a classic British family day out at the seaside, pack your buckets, spades and deckchairs and head to Weymouth. This Dorset seaside resort has been popular with holiday-makers ever since King George III’s visits to bathe in the coastal waters in the late 1700s. 

Today, Weymouth’s award-winning beach, overlooked by the Georgian seafront, offers three miles of golden sands and clear shallow waters ideal for swimming and paddling. Lifeguards patrol from May to September. In the summer months, there are Punch and Judy shows, donkey rides and other activities to entertain families. There’s a bustling pastel-coloured harbour nearby too, with a great mix of cafés, restaurants and fish and chip shops.

Knoll Beach, Studland Bay

Studland Bay is a four-mile stretch of glorious coastline, with gentle bathing waters and stunning views of the chalky formations of Old Harry Rocks – you can see all the way to the Isle of Wight on a clear day. Knoll Beach forms the southern end of the bay, backed by wild sand dunes and the Studland National Nature Reserve, home to diverse wildlife, birds and plant species including the rare sand lizard. 

Nature trails and guided walks are available if you want to explore the landscape and learn about its ecological significance. The beach is owned by the National Trust (so members can park for free) and has several handy facilities, including a beach shop, café with outdoor seating, and a watersports centre where you can hire stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, pedalos, and even sailing dinghies. There’s no lifeguard service so, whilst it’s generally shallow and safe, take care when you’re in or on the water.

Charmouth Beach, Lyme Regis

Keen fossil-hunters should head to the sand and shingle Charmouth Beach in the east of Lyme Regis. The cliffs along the beach here offer some of the best fossil hunting on the whole of the south coast of England, especially after a storm when fresh fossils are sometimes exposed. You can explore on your own or if you want some expert advice, join a guided fossil walk. 

Separated by the River Char, the beach splits into three sections named Central, West and East Beach. Central Beach has the best access to the Heritage Centre, where you’ll find informative exhibits and helpful staff, so it’s best for fossil-hunting families to get set up here. Note that there are no lifeguards on any of the sections of Charmouth Beach, so take care when exploring the shoreline.

Shell Beach, Studland Bay

Another gorgeous section of the sand-dune backed Studland Bay is Shell Beach, located right on the tip of the peninsula. It’s close to the entrance of Poole Harbour, so it’s a good spot for watching the boats coming in and out as you tuck into a picnic. The National Trust are keen to keep this beach unspoilt and untouched, so it enjoys a lovely tranquil feel – ideal for beach-goers seeking a peaceful escape (though you’ll need to head to Knoll Beach if you want to make use of any of the facilities). Between Shell Beach and Knoll Beach there’s a designated naturist area, a half-a-mile stretch where clothing is optional – good to know in case you wish to reach, or avoid, this part. 

Sandbanks, Poole

One of Dorset’s most popular Blue Flag beaches, Sandbanks is a coastal haven on a beautiful spit in Poole Harbour. It’s an affluent area, with luxurious houses lining ‘Millionaire’s Row’ and a marina filled with grand yachts. It also has a fantastic beach with soft golden sands and crystal clear waters, with lifeguards present from the end of March to late September. If you’re looking for activities to keep you or the family entertained during your beach day, the sheltered bay makes for a great location for paddleboarding, windsurfing and sailing. There’s also crazy golf, a play area, volleyball pitch, ice cream kiosks and more, plus a promenade for a leisurely walk with views across to Brownsea Island. 

Bournemouth Beach, Bournemouth

Bournemouth Beach is one of the best family-friendly sandy beaches in Dorset, complete with a Victorian Pier, arcades, water sports, and other classic seaside attractions. It’s well-loved for its bustling atmosphere and spectacular, long stretch of sand. You can pitch your windbreak at the main beach in the heart of the activity (where lifeguards are on watch from March to September) or if you fancy a scenic walk, you could head to one of the nearby beaches. Choose from Boscombe Beach and Southbourne Beach in the east or Durley Chine, Middle Chine, Alum Chine and Branksome Beach in the west. Wherever you decide to enjoy your beach day, expect quintessential beach huts and buckets and spades aplenty.

Ringstead Bay, near Weymouth

If you’re looking for a sandy beach that’s off-the-beaten track, Ringstead Bay is a great choice. This unspoilt piece of coastline is seven miles outside of Weymouth and surrounded by beautiful cliffs and farmland. Far quieter than some of the more well-known beaches in the area, it’s perfect for those who want a beach day away from the hustle and bustle. Part shingle and part sand, it’s another good spot to look for pre-historic fossil treasures. The waters are generally very clear and lovely for a refreshing ocean dip. Just take care as there is no lifeguard service (or facilities). For oceanside bliss, bring a good book, suncream and plenty of water and snacks.

Swanage Beach, Swanage

Situated on the Isle of Purbeck in South Dorset, Swanage is a small Victorian seaside resort known for its mild weather and microclimate. Its family-friendly, award-winning, white sands beach is a brilliant place to spend the day relaxing, collecting sea shells, building castles or cooling off with a swim (lifeguards watch the bathing zone between the months of May and September). There’s a lovely historic pier to stroll along or sit and enjoy some fish and chips. And, for an extra special and nostalgic experience, you ride a vintage steam train through the countryside to arrive at Swanage in style. 

Staying in Dorset

For an unforgettable break in Dorset, take a look at our handpicked collection of hideaways dotted around the county. How about a romantic French-style shepherd’s hut surrounded by green countryside? Or a beachy chalet right beside the sea in Lyme Regis? Browse all of our Dorset hideaways and plan your magical adventure.

For more inspiration for your trip, read our guides on the best things to do in Dorset and the best places to eat in Dorset.