West Bay (East Beach)
Dorset
West Bay is one of Dorset's most recognisable coastal spots — the towering golden sandstone cliffs familiar from the TV series Broadchurch rising dramatically above a busy harbour with three distinct beach sections. East Beach stretches beneath the cliffs to the east, West Beach sits to the west of the pier, and a third smaller beach lies beyond a large rock groyne. The South West Coast Path passes directly through, and the harbour area offers cafes, pubs, fish and chip shops, and ice cream.
This dog friendly beach restricts dogs on East Beach and West Beach from May to September, but the third beach beyond the rock groyne has no restrictions and welcomes dogs year-round. Outside summer, all three beaches are open to dogs off-lead. Dogs should be kept on lead around the harbourside and esplanade at all times. The third beach is smaller and more sheltered, with a mix of shingle and sand, and provides a satisfying outing when combined with the coast path even during the restricted season. The dramatic cliff backdrop makes every section of West Bay visually striking regardless of which beach you use.
At a Glance
Beach Must-Haves
Elite Paws Luxury Dog Drying Coat
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LumoLeaf Portable Dog Water Bottles
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Mud Daddy 8L Portable Pet Washing Device
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Dog Travel Bag
£33.99 View on Amazon
Dog Tie Out Stake and Run Cable
£17.54 View on Amazon
Dog Life Jacket
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Frequently Asked Questions
West Bay is dog friendly, though it comes with some caveats that are worth knowing before you visit , hence its rating of 6/10. The main beaches (East Beach and West Beach) have seasonal restrictions in place, but a third beach beyond the large rock groyne welcomes dogs all year round with no restrictions.
It depends on which part of the beach you're heading to. East Beach and West Beach both restrict dogs from May to September, but the third beach beyond the rock groyne has no seasonal restrictions and is open to dogs year-round. Outside of summer, all three beaches are open to dogs off-lead.
During the summer months (May to September), dogs are restricted from East Beach and West Beach, so your best bet is the third beach beyond the rock groyne , a smaller, more sheltered spot with a mix of shingle and sand. Around the harbourside and esplanade, dogs must be kept on lead at all times regardless of the season. The good news is the area is well-served with facilities including cafes, pubs, and toilets, and the South West Coast Path runs right through, making it easy to extend your visit with a scenic clifftop walk.