Beach

West Bay (East Beach)

Dorset

Dog Friendly Rating:6/10A lively harbour beach with dramatic cliffs and year round access on the third beach, but significant summer restrictions on the main sections.

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.\n\nThis 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

Dog Access: Seasonal Restrictions; East Beach and West Beach restricted from 1 May to 30 September. Third beach (beyond rock groyne on the west side) has no restrictions year round. Dogs on lead around harbour and esplanade at all times.
Beach Type: Sand, Shingle
Tide Notes: Beach character varies by section. East Beach is more exposed, third beach more sheltered. Sand exposed at lower tides.
Facilities: Toilets, cafes, pubs, shops, ice cream. Full range of facilities around the harbour.
Parking: Several pay and display car parks near the seafront.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is West Bay (East Beach) dog friendly?
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.
Are dogs allowed at West Bay (East Beach) year round?
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.
What should I know before visiting West Bay (East Beach) with my dog?
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.