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Dorset Coast and Beaches
Looking for a dramatic coastline, breath-taking views and wonderful golden sands? Well pack up your things and head to Dorset, because we’ve got all this and a whole lot more!
The huge variety of beaches and coastal landscapes makes our coastline one of the most inspiring and spectacular stretches of coast found anywhere in the UK.
Dorset’s Jurassic Coast
Dorset’s incredible coastline is famous for its fossil-flecked cliffs. Designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site due to its outstanding geology, take a trip through 185 million years of earth’s history as you journey along the Jurassic Coast.
The World Heritage Site stretches for 96 miles between Dorset and East Devon. There are many famous spectacular geological landmarks along the Jurassic Coast including Old Harry Rocks, Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door and West Bay. The shale and pebble beaches at Kimmeridge Bay and Chesil Beach are also dramatic and worth visiting for their natural beauty.
Eagle eyed visitors to West Bay may recognise it as the setting for ITV’s award winning drama Broadchurch. With its iconic cliffs, West Bay provides a breath-taking backdrop for a wonderful day at the beach.
Lyme Regis is another of Dorset’s most popular resorts which continues to be enjoyed by all ages. Home to glorious golden sand, stunning scenery and safe bathing waters protected by the famous Cobb, Lyme Regis makes for a wonderful day at the seaside.
Beautiful beaches
Dorset has many beautiful beaches along our 100 miles of coastline. You can build sandcastles, take a swim, walk the stunning coast path or just sit back and enjoy the views - we know you'll have a great day out.
Every beach has its own unique charm and character to explore - from miles of sweeping golden sand to secluded private coves and everything in between.
Stretch your legs and explore
The Dorset coast provides some of the very best in wonderful opportunities to explore. There are lots of walking routes to enjoy with plenty of welcoming coastal towns and villages for refreshments along the way.
A large section of the 630 mile South West Coast Path is in Dorset - it is certainly a must for real walking fans to try.
Whatever point along Dorset’s coast you start your walk, you’re sure to enjoy some fabulous views and awe-inspiring scenery.
Meet the locals
Along our coastline you’ll find a delightful mix of towns and villages to explore, all of which will offer a warm welcome and wonderful options for eating out with friends or family.
Each stop off along the Dorset coast will provide you with a wonderful insight into local life, with each location offering its own unique charm.
Harbours and Ports
Dorset’s Poole Harbour is the largest natural harbour in Europe and the second largest in the world!
Dorset harbours can be enjoyed in so many ways, whether you are sailing the coast, taking a boat trip or just enjoy visiting harbours to see the colourful fishing boats and their catches.
Find out more about the harbours and ports of Dorset.
Have fun & stay safe
We encourage everyone to enjoy the spectacular coastline and beaches in Dorset safely.
We have teamed up with the wonderful SafeWise charity and the Dorset Coast Forum who have created an animation to promote coastal safety in a fun way to children called CoastWise - check it out and remember to share these helpful tips with your family and friends.
Start planning your holiday by the sea
So, with all of our wonderful beaches and coast waiting to be enjoyed, surely it’s an easy decision to come and visit Dorset. The hard part is deciding where to visit first!
Book your break to Dorset today, just don’t forget your cossie!
Now take a look at our things to do, what’s on, places to visit and food and drinks pages.
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