Best Rock Pools In Dorset

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Have you discovered any of the rock pools in Dorset? A rock pool is a shallow area of water left behind at low tide. They are generally found on rocky shores, which Dorset has plenty of. During low tide, you can discover these small areas of water that appear to be separate from other bodies of water. This is also a great FREE activity for the whole family.

You can discover plenty of different sea creatures living in a rock pool from the common prawn, long spined sea scorpion, to a starfish and a common crab. Finding these creatures is a great activity when visiting beaches in Dorset. Plenty of these beaches in Dorset are also a great haven for fossil hunting as well.

You can go rock pooling at any time of the year, but the best time of the year is when the water is warmer. Finding a rock pool any time between late Spring and early Autumn is the prime time to discover sea creatures.

What To Take Rock Pooling

Taking a net and a bucket with you when rock pooling is a must to be able to examine and watch the creatures you find before releasing them back into their natural habitat.

If you’re looking to discover some of the beaches with rock pools in Dorset, it’s a good idea to check the tide times before you visit. It’s also a good idea to wear sensible footwear such as wellies in colder months, and perhaps beach shoes in warmer months.

rock pool

Kimmeridge Bay Rock Pooling

The Toll Hut, Kimmeridge Approach Road, Kimmeridge, Wareham BH20 5PF

Access to Kimmeridge Bay is via a toll road, with a £6 parking and access charge for cars. However once parked, you will be treated to some great cliff top views from the car park and plenty of space to explore the rock pools.

You can discover plenty of rock pools to the left hand side of the car park on the ledges when the tide is out at Kimmeridge. The ground is uneven so take care with young children.

Check Kimmeridge Bay tide times

Related Post – Where to go crabbing in Dorset

Lulworth Cove Rock Pools

BH20 5RQ

The rock pools at Lulworth Cove are only accessible for a few hours each day when the tide is out. You can however discover creatures such as barnacles, anemones, seaweed and crabs. 

There is ample parking near the Heritage and Visitor Centre at Lulworth Cove, with plenty of things to see and do for a whole day out. 

The rock pools are discovered across large uneven rocks, so good footwear is a must for rock pooling at Lulworth.

Check Lulworth tide times

crab in rock pool

Lyme Regis Rock Pools

There are plenty of limestone and shale ledges at Lyme Regis that showcase some amazing rock pools during low tide. Limestone is a great surface for limpets to attach to, so expect to find lots!

Monmouth Beach in Lyme Regis is a great place for rock pooling and is also one of the dog friendly beaches in Dorset. Broad Ledge is another great location, which is just to the east of the town.

There are plenty of car parks in Lyme Regis if you’re visiting to discover the area, and plenty of things to do to make a great day out.

Check Lyme Regis tide times

Charmouth Beach

DT6 6LS

Charmouth Beach is separated by the river Char. The area is a great location for rock pools along the Dorset coast.

The beach is mainly made up of shingle making the rock pool areas accessible. The perfect Summer weather activity to include paddling in the sea.

Parts of the beach are also very dog friendly, and a haven for fossils and amazing views. The perfect family day out in Dorset.

Check Charmouth beach tide times

Sandsfoot Castle Southlands Beach

Weymouth, DT4 8QG

The beach at Sandsfoot (also known as Castle Cove) is made up of sand and rock. When the tide goes out there are multiple rock pools to be discovered. Limited parking is available on the road.

Check tide times

Rock Pools At Bowleaze Cove

If you’re visiting Weymouth, and one of the many great beaches in Weymouth, check out Bowleaze Cove. There’s plenty of entertainment, and home to the amusements. But you’ll also find some great rock pools on the east side of the beach.

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