One of the most-loved natural landmarks of Dorset and a highlight of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, Durdle Door attracts thousands of visitors every year.
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Durdle Door
Beaches
It’s not just Swanage’s beautiful sandy bay that has visitors flocking to Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, and more and more people moving down for a new life by the sea – there are miles of beaches, coves and bays a short distance from our seaside town.
Make Swanage your base to enjoy the golden sands of Studland Bay, discover the off-the-beaten-track secret beaches along the nearby coastline, and learn about the intriguing geology of places like Kimmeridge Bay.
All within a short distance of Swanage is a wide variety of coastal landscapes to explore – from family-friendly beaches with all the amenities you could ask for including beach cafés, bars, shops, toilets and beach huts, to more remote spots accessible only by walking, such as Chapman’s Pool.
We’re lucky to have so many famous landmarks at our beaches in Purbeck, too, like the pretty Lulworth Cove and of course the imposing Durdle Door.
Many of the beaches, including Swanage’s Blue Flag beach have safe swimming areas, which are life-guarded during peak season, but others are not suitable for swimming, or may have other restrictions such as seasonal dog-walking rules, so check out our lowdown of all the best beaches near Swanage for your visit.
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Lulworth Cove
Nestled at the foot of the picturesque village of West Lulworth, Lulworth Cove is one of the most photographed beauty spots in Britain and an important geological area of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.
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Man O’ War Bay
The smaller of Durdle Door’s two beaches, Man O’ War Bay, is an enclosed cove, perfect for picnicking and wiling away the hours in a stunning setting.
If you love Studland’s beaches but would prefer a more local vibe head to South Beach.
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Tyneham Beach
Sometimes referred to as Tyneham Beach, this stretch of sand and pebble is most commonly known as Worbarrow Bay.
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Dog-friendly beaches
Dorset is a dog-loving county and welcomes four-legged visitors to most beaches, cafés, pubs and restaurants.
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Knoll Beach
Knoll Beach is the largest and most well-known beach at Studland Bay.
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Chapman’s Pool
If your idea of a dream day at the beach involves a wild and secluded bay where you can wile away the hours watching the odd passing boat and reading a good book, Chapman’s Pool is hard to beat.
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Swanage Bay
Swanage is probably most well-known for its superb, sweeping sandy bay, which has been drawing visitors for generations.
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Worbarrow Bay
You might discover this expanse of shingle and sand beach by chance on a visit to the abandoned village of Tyneham.
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Studland Naturist Beach
Around 1km of Studland Bay has been set aside for naturism. It’s one of the UK’s most well-known official naturist spots.
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Swanage Beach
The jewel in Swanage’s crown is its beautiful beach that sweeps around the curve of its sheltered bay.