Sandy Point
Hampshire
Sandy Point is the southeastern tip of Hayling Island, a wild and relatively undeveloped stretch of coast where the island narrows to a sandy spit at the edge of Chichester Harbour. The beach here is informal and unspoilt compared to the more managed Beachlands frontage to the west, with dunes, rough grass, and open sky giving it a natural, unhurried atmosphere. The point is a designated nature reserve and an important site for coastal wildlife, particularly migrating birds, and the adjacent heathland and scrub support a range of species. Views extend east across the harbour entrance and south into Hayling Bay, with little in the way of development to interrupt them.
Dogs are welcome at Sandy Point year-round, as this area sits outside the main Blue Flag beach restriction zones that apply to the central Hayling Island frontage. The open, informal terrain makes it an excellent spot for an off-lead run, though care should be taken near the nature reserve areas and the harbour channel, where tidal currents run strongly on the ebb. Parking is available on Sandy Point Road, with additional roadside spaces nearby. There are no facilities at the point itself, so come prepared. The area is best appreciated at low tide when the sandy foreshore is fully exposed.
At a Glance
- Dog Access
- Year Round
- Beach Type
- Sand, Pebble
- Tide Notes
- Wide sandy foreshore at low tide. Strong tidal currents run through the harbour channel to the east; swimming near the channel is not recommended. Best visited at low to mid tide for the most beach space.
- Facilities
- None on site. Nearest facilities at Beachlands to the west.
- Parking
- Roadside parking on Sandy Point Road, PO11 9RR. Informal spaces near the nature reserve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sandy Point dog friendly?
Yes, Sandy Point is a great spot for dogs and earns a solid 7/10 on our dog-friendly rating. The open, informal terrain of this wild sandy spit makes it well suited to off-lead runs, and it sits outside the main beach restriction zones that apply to the more central Hayling Island frontage. It's a lovely, unhurried spot with plenty of space to roam.
Are dogs allowed at Sandy Point year round?
Yes, dogs are welcome at Sandy Point throughout the year. Because it sits outside the Blue Flag beach restriction zones that cover the busier Beachlands area to the west, there are no seasonal bans to worry about here.
What should I know before visiting Sandy Point with my dog?
A few things are worth bearing in mind before you head out. There are no facilities at the point itself, so bring water and anything else you might need. The harbour channel runs close by and tidal currents can be strong on the ebb, so it's wise to keep dogs away from the water's edge there. Sandy Point is also a designated nature reserve, so take care around the reserve areas, particularly if birds are nesting or feeding. The beach is at its best at low tide when the sandy foreshore is fully exposed.
What’s Nearby?
Beach1.1 mi awayEastoke Beach
Hampshire
A Blue Flag sand and pebble beach on the southeastern tip of Hayling Island, with year-round dog access at the Eastoke end and seasonal restrictions on the central Blue Flag section from May to September.
Beach1.2 mi awayWest Wittering
West Sussex
A sheltered sandy beach facing Chichester Harbour with year-round dog access in the dune and harbour sections, and some seasonal restrictions on the main beach.
Beach1.8 mi awayEast Head
West Sussex
A National Trust sand dune spit at the entrance to Chichester Harbour with year-round access and outstanding natural beauty.
Beach2.9 mi awayHayling Island West Beach
Hampshire
The western, more sheltered side of Hayling Island facing Chichester Harbour with year-round access in many areas.
Beach3 mi awaySinah Warren Beach
Hampshire
A sheltered pebble and sand beach on the western tip of Hayling Island, facing Langstone Harbour with year-round dog access and a connection to the historic foot ferry to Portsmouth.
Beach4.1 mi awayEastney Beach
Hampshire
A quieter, wilder alternative to the main Southsea seafront, with rare shingle habitat, WWII history, and year-round dog access east of the Eastney Coffee Cup.
