Eype Beach

About

Less well-known than some of the beaches found along the South West Coast Path, Eype Beach offers peaceful seclusion away from the more popular beaches located at Lyme Regis and West Bay.

Sitting beneath the towering peak of Golden Cap the beach offers breath taking views along the awe inspiring World Heritage Jurassic Coast. There are few better locations to enjoy the evening glow as the sun sets to the west over Lyme Bay.

Making your way to this secluded spot really gives you a slice of Dorset life from years gone by. Winding your way to the coast through narrow country lanes as you pass quintessential country cottages aplenty you really could have stepped back to a simpler time.

The shingle, shelving beach can be quite steep as you enter the water’s edge so it advised to take caution when entering the water. Swimming should only be enjoyed by strong swimmers, the step shelving can create currents that can cause difficulty for less confident bathers.

Eype Beach provides a haven for dog walkers and is open to dogs all year round. With the landscape on offer and a host of local walking routes leading from the beach it’s no surprise that it a favourite location for dog owners.

Eype Beach also provides wonderful conditions for fossil hunting with some magnificent finds being unearthed along this stretch of coastline in the past. Home to plenty of ammonites you have every chance of finding your own piece of natural history.

Parking can be found just above the beach with access to the beach via steps. A local pub, shops and local tea rooms offer refreshment opportunities, but the beach itself is a fantastic picnic location. With Bridport and Lyme Regis only a short drive away, Eype Beach should certainly be on your list of places to explore.

Type of Beach: Shingle beach backed by a steep cliff, with steep shelving into the sea. 

Safety: Bathing can be dangerous. The sea gets deep very quickly and there is a strong under-tow. Take care on the shoreline because sudden large waves can engulf persons at the water's edge. Stay away from cliffs due to rockfalls.

Lifeguards: There are no lifeguards at Eype Beach.

Toilets: There are no public toilets.

Accessibility: Sea and beach can be viewed from cliff top parking area. There are steep steps to the beach. There is no wheelchair access to the beach. There are no public toilets. 

Parking: Parking available via a single track lane with few passing places and is sometimes impassable during peak season. Best access is on foot along the South West Coast Path or park at Eype Picnic Area (just off the the A35) and walk down along the scenic footpaths (15 minutes walk).

Dogs: Dogs welcome all year, off lead.