Lyme Regis is one of Dorset’s most charming seaside towns, famous for its historic harbour, beautiful promenade, and fossil-rich coastline. Whether you’re visiting for a family day out, a dog-friendly stroll, or some serious fossil hunting, Lyme Regis has a beach to suit everyone.
Here’s your complete guide to the best beaches in and around the town.
Lyme Regis has also been featured in many films – find out more.
Front Beach
The main beach in Lyme Regis, Front Beach is perfect for families, paddlers, and anyone wanting the classic seaside experience.
- Type: Sand & pebbles (mostly sand at low tide)
- Dog-friendly: Dogs welcome between October and April on a short lead only.
- Facilities: Toilets, cafés, promenade, beach wheelchairs
- Accessibility: Flat promenade, wheelchair-friendly access
- Best for: Families, paddling, sunbathing, people-watching
The views from Front Beach are stunning — you can see the historic Cobb Harbour stretching out into the sea, and the beach often hosts events in summer. If you’re after a traditional day by the sea, this is the place to be.
Related post – Dog friendly beaches in Dorset
Monmouth Beach
For those wanting a quieter experience, Monmouth Beach is a pebble-strewn beach with stunning Jurassic Coast views.
- Type: Pebbles with some sand at low tide
- Dog-friendly: Dogs welcome all year
- Facilities: Limited parking, no toilets
- Accessibility: Some steps down from the cliff path
- Best for: Fossil hunting, rock pooling, photography, a peaceful stroll
Monmouth Beach is part of the UNESCO Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, and its cliffs and rock formations make it perfect for discovering fossils.
Related post – Fossil hunting in Dorset
Church Cliff Beach
A hidden gem tucked beneath the cliffs east of Lyme Regis town centre.
- Type: Pebbles and rock pools
- Dog-friendly: Dogs welcome all year
- Facilities: None on the beach itself; nearest toilets and cafés in town
- Accessibility: Steep steps down from cliff path — not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs
- Best for: Fossil hunting, rock pooling, photography, quiet walks
- Extras: Excellent views of Lyme Regis harbour and cliffs; often very quiet even in summer
East Cliff Beach
Another smaller, quieter beach east of the harbour, nestled below the East Cliff. Also known as Back Beach.
- Type: Pebbles with some sand at low tide – this beach is cut off completely at high tide, so check tide times before visiting.
- Dog-friendly: Dogs welcome all year
- Facilities: None directly on the beach; town facilities nearby
- Accessibility: Access via steep steps from East Cliff; be careful on slippery paths
- Best for: Fossil hunting, peaceful strolls, photography
- Extras: Part of the Jurassic Coast; often less crowded than Front or Sandy Beach
