The Dorset coast is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in southern England. From fossil-rich beaches and dramatic sea cliffs to golden sandy bays, natural rock arches and peaceful coastal villages, there is plenty to discover along this beautiful stretch of coastline.
Much of the coast forms part of the Jurassic Coast, the 95-mile Dorset and East Devon Coast World Heritage Site stretching from Exmouth in Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset. In 2001, it became England's first and only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for the outstanding geological importance of its rocks, fossils and landforms.
With so much to see and do, choosing where to visit can be difficult. So, if you're planning a Dorset coastal holiday, here are six of our favourite must-see places on the Dorset coast.
1 . Lyme Regis
For fossil hunters, Lyme Regis is one of the most fascinating places to visit on the Dorset coast.
The town sits within the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site and is famous for its rich geological heritage and fossil discoveries. It was also home to Mary Anning, the pioneering fossil hunter whose discoveries helped transform our understanding of prehistoric life.
Today, you can follow in Mary's footsteps and learn more about the area's remarkable geology on a guided fossil walk. Lyme Regis Museum runs fossil walks along East Beach and Black Ven, where expert guides explain the geology of the Jurassic Coast and help visitors discover their own fossils.
For families with budding palaeontologists, it's a brilliant way to experience the Jurassic Coast.
Don't forget to explore the town itself, too. Lyme Regis has a charming seafront, independent shops, cafés and restaurants, while the iconic Cobb harbour provides one of the town's most recognisable views.
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2. Charmouth
Just along the coast from Lyme Regis, you'll find the picturesque village of Charmouth, another fantastic destination for fossil hunting on the Jurassic Coast.
Charmouth's beaches are well known for their fossils, and the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre runs guided fossil hunting walks where visitors can learn about the local geology and search the beach for their own Jurassic fossils. The centre also runs marine and seashore activities.
If you're planning to go fossil hunting independently, it's important to follow local safety advice. The Heritage Coast Centre recommends fossil hunting on a falling tide and advises visitors to stay away from the cliffs and mudslides, where rockfalls and unstable ground can be dangerous. Fossils should only be collected when they are loose on the beach rather than from cliffs or rock ledges.
Charmouth is also a lovely place simply to enjoy the coast, with a beach that's particularly appealing to families.
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3. West Bay
One of the best things about the Dorset coastline is its variety. Within a relatively short distance, the landscape changes from fossil-rich beaches to sweeping sandy shores, dramatic cliffs, quiet coves and bustling seaside harbours.
West Bay is particularly memorable for its towering golden cliffs and beautiful coastal scenery.
The cliffs will be instantly recognisable to fans of the ITV drama Broadchurch, which used the area as a filming location. The landscape provides a spectacular backdrop for a coastal walk, while the harbour and beach make West Bay a great place to spend a day by the sea.
There's plenty to do beyond sightseeing, too. You can explore the harbour, enjoy a walk along the coast, try your hand at crabbing or simply relax on the beach.
For a change of scene, head inland to Bridport, a lively market town with independent shops, cafés, restaurants and regular markets.
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4. Chesil Beach
Stretching for around 18 miles between Portland and West Bay, Chesil Beach is one of the most remarkable coastal features in Dorset.
This huge shingle barrier beach protects the Fleet Lagoon, creating a unique landscape that's also important for wildlife. The Fleet is the largest tidal lagoon in the UK and supports a wide variety of birdlife, while Chesil Beach itself is an important habitat for coastal species.
For wildlife lovers, this is an excellent place to explore. Depending on the season, you may see wading birds, seabirds and other coastal species around the lagoon and shoreline.
Nearby Abbotsbury is another Dorset highlight. The village is home to the famous Abbotsbury Swannery, where visitors can see a large colony of mute swans and, during the breeding season, their cygnets.
You can also combine a visit with Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens and a walk up to St Catherine's Chapel for panoramic views across the surrounding countryside and coast.
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5. Durdle Door
No list of the best places to visit on the Dorset coast would be complete without Durdle Door.
This spectacular natural limestone arch is one of Dorset's most recognisable landmarks and a must-see on any Jurassic Coast itinerary. The arch was formed when the sea eroded through the Portland limestone, creating the distinctive opening that visitors see today.
Nearby Lulworth Cove is equally impressive. The almost circular cove is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and is one of the most photographed landscapes on the Dorset coast.
The area is perfect for walking and photography, while more adventurous visitors can try activities such as coasteering, rock-pooling and other outdoor pursuits. Durdle Door itself is also a great place to appreciate the geology that makes the Jurassic Coast so special.
If you prefer something a little less energetic, Lulworth Castle is nearby and makes a good addition to a day exploring the area.
Durdle Door is a natural coastal environment, so please take care around the cliffs and check current access and parking information before travelling. Cliff falls can occur and caves beneath the cliffs should not be entered.
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6. Studland Bay
If you're looking for somewhere to combine beautiful beaches, coastal walks and nature, make your way to Studland Bay.
The National Trust looks after four miles of sandy beaches stretching along the sheltered waters of the bay. Behind the beaches are dunes and heathland, creating a varied landscape that's home to wildlife and wildflowers.
There are several beaches to explore, including Knoll Beach, Middle Beach and South Beach. The sheltered waters also make Studland a popular destination for watersports, with opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing and other activities.
For walkers, there are trails through the dunes and heathland, while the coastline offers fantastic views towards Old Harry Rocks and across Poole Bay towards the Isle of Wight.
Studland is also a great destination for wildlife spotting. The surrounding heathland supports a range of birds, reptiles, insects and wildflowers, making it much more than simply a beach destination.
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Discover the best of the Dorset coast
From the fossil-rich beaches of Lyme Regis and Charmouth to the dramatic cliffs of West Bay, the extraordinary landscape of Chesil Beach, the iconic Durdle Door and the sandy shores of Studland Bay, the Dorset coast offers something for every kind of visitor.
Whether you're planning a family beach holiday, a romantic coastal escape or an action-packed break exploring the Jurassic Coast, Dorset is a destination that's easy to fall in love with.
And one of the best things about staying with Dorset Hideaways is having your own comfortable holiday cottage to return to after a day exploring.
From cosy coastal cottages for two to spacious houses for family and friends, our Dorset holiday cottages make the perfect base for discovering the county's beaches, villages, walking routes and iconic Jurassic Coast landmarks.
FAQs
What are the best places to visit on the Dorset coast?
Some of the most popular places to visit on the Dorset coast include Lyme Regis, Charmouth, West Bay, Chesil Beach, Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove and Studland Bay.
What are the best places to visit on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset?
Popular Jurassic Coast destinations in Dorset include Lyme Regis, Charmouth, West Bay, Chesil Beach, Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, each offering a different experience of the coastline.
Where can I go fossil hunting on the Dorset coast?
Lyme Regis and Charmouth are two of the best-known places for fossil hunting on the Dorset coast. Guided fossil walks are available from Lyme Regis Museum and Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre.
What is the most famous place on the Dorset coast?
Durdle Door is one of the most recognisable landmarks on the Dorset coast, while other iconic locations include Lulworth Cove, Old Harry Rocks and the beaches of Studland Bay.
Where are the best beaches on the Dorset coast?
Dorset has a wide variety of beaches, from the sandy shores of Studland Bay to the beaches around Lyme Regis and Charmouth and the distinctive shingle landscape of Chesil Beach.
How long is the Dorset Jurassic Coast?
The Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site stretches for 95 miles along the coast from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset.
Is the Dorset coast good for a family holiday?
Yes. The Dorset coast offers family-friendly beaches, fossil hunting, coastal walks, watersports and attractions including the Abbotsbury Swannery, making it suitable for a wide range of ages.
Where should I stay to explore the Dorset coast?
Choosing where to stay depends on which parts of the coast you want to explore. Lyme Regis and Charmouth are convenient for the western Jurassic Coast, while Weymouth, Lulworth, Swanage and Purbeck provide access to different sections of the Dorset coastline. And one of the best things about staying with Dorset Hideaways is having your own comfortable holiday cottage to return to after a day exploring.