10 dreamy Dorset seaside towns to visit

Along the southern coast of England, few places rival the beauty and charm of Dorset. This county boasts some of the most gorgeous landscapes and pristine beaches you’ll ever encounter.

I’ve had the pleasure of wandering through its picturesque towns, each with a unique character and history. And if you appreciate fine food, scenic walks, and a relaxed atmosphere, this stretch of coastline promises unforgettable moments.

So, here are my top recommendations for the best Dorset seaside towns and what I love about them.

1. Lyme Regis

Best for: Fossil hunting

When I first set foot in Lyme Regis, it was easy to see why it’s nicknamed the “Pearl of Dorset.” Its glistening seas sit right at the heart of the Jurassic Coast!

Its claim to fame is The Cobb, an ancient curving harbour wall that has starred in many period novels and dramas.

If you’re a Jane Austen fan like me, you’ll get a thrill picturing Louisa Musgrove’s fateful fall in “Persuasion.”

This town is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its fossils.

Keep an eye out for ammonites while ambling the pebbled beaches or book a guided fossil hunting walk to up your chances of discovering prehistoric treasures.

2. Lulworth Cove

Best for: Scenic walks

Lulworth Cove is a rare gem and hands down one of the most stunning spots along the Jurassic Coast.

Its perfectly circular bay, shaped by the sea over millions of years, is one of those views you just have to snap dozens of pictures of.

One of my favourite things to do here is simply soak in the view from the cliff tops. 

The walk from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door is worth every step – that natural limestone arch is an absolute showstopper!

I must warn you, though, it’s quite an uphill trek, and some parts are gravelly, so make sure to pack good trainers or hiking boots.

If hiking isn’t your thing, you can always hop on a rib ride and enjoy the scenery from the water instead!

3. Weymouth

Best for: Luxury stay

Weymouth might be bigger and busier than some of Dorset’s coastal towns, but it hasn’t lost its classic seaside charm.

Its wide, sandy beach is a sun-seeker’s dream, and I’ve spent many happy days here, toes in the sand and cocktail in hand.

If you love seafood, make a beeline to The Crab House Café. Their seafood platters are out of this world!

Several luxury hotels and holiday rentals offer views of Chesil Beach and the Fleet Lagoon, many just a short walk from the shore.

4. Studland

Best for: Laid-back relaxation

Studland is a slice of paradise with its four-mile stretch of pristine sandy beach and backdrop of gently undulating dunes.

My favourite spot is South Beach. It’s a bit of a walk from the car park, but that means it’s usually quieter.

The Pig on the Beach is my go-to for a luxurious stay. This shabby-chic country house hotel is all laid-back glamour.

I adore their garden-to-plate ethos, as well as their treatment rooms in old potting sheds.

5. Swanage

Best for: Victorian architecture

Swanage never fails to win me over with its old-world allure, complete with grand Victorian buildings, a restored pier, and a vintage steam railway.  

The Swanage Pier is a wonderful spot for a stroll, and the £2 entry fee is a small price to pay, knowing it helps with its upkeep.

The memory plaques on the wooden planks and benches are truly special. I love reading the inscriptions, a mix of happy and sad.

For £200, you can have your own message engraved too, leaving a little piece of yourself in this beautiful place.

6. Christchurch

Best for: Ancient history and local crafts

Christchurch is a real treat for history buffs like myself. With a rich heritage and a serene riverside setting, you get the best of both worlds.

The town’s crowning glory has to be the magnificent Christchurch Priory, a 900-year-old Norman masterpiece.

If you’re visiting on a Monday, the weekly market in the town square is a great place to pick up some local bits and bobs.

And while you’re there, pop into the Ye Olde George Inn for a mean Sunday roast.

For something fancier, I can’t recommend The Jetty enough. The food is fantastic, and the views are spectacular!

7. West Bay

Best for: Seafood

Thanks to David Tennant, West Bay will always be Broadchurch-by-the-Sea to me. Its golden cliffs deserve every moment of screen time they got on the hit drama series.

However, the harbour is the beating heart of this little coastal town, with fishing boats hauling in their catch of the day.

Speaking of which, you just have to try the seafood here. My top pick? The Watch House Café right on the beach. Their crab sandwiches are to die for!

8. Bournemouth

Best for: Gardens, arts, and nightlife

If you’re looking for variety, Bournemouth has it all. Its beaches are some of the best on the south coast: clean, spacious, and lined with colourful beach huts.

The gardens that run through the centre of town are fabulous. I love grabbing a coffee and just wandering through, especially when the flowers are in full bloom.

If you’re after a bit of culture, the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery is this eclectic mansion full of art and curios from around the world. The building itself is as much a work of art as anything inside.

Bournemouth also has a reputation as a party town. You’ll have a great night out at Sixty Million Postcards – quirky name, great atmosphere.

9. Poole

Best for: Retail therapy

Best known for its natural harbour (also the largest in Europe), Poole is a sophisticated escape for those who love the sea and the finer things.

The Dolphin Shopping Centre has all your high street favourites and a decent food court when you need to refuel. However, I prefer pottering around the independent shops in the Old Town.

Molly’s Den is a massive emporium of antiques and retro goods. Also, there’s a lovely little place called Westbourne Bookshop, absolutely crammed with books.

10. Charmouth

Best for: Relaxation and exploration

Sleepy, seaside charm is getting harder to find these days, but you can stop your search right here.

Charmouth has a huge selection of accommodations, from charming B&Bs to self-catering cottages.

The high street has a few shops and cafes, including the Charmouth Bakery with its viral breakfast rolls. 

I love heading up to Stonebarrow Hill for spectacular views of Lyme Bay. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Golden Cap, the highest point on the south coast.

Have you visited any of these seaside towns in Dorset? Let me know your favourites in the comments below!

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