Sandsfoot Beach
Sandsfoot Beach quietly rests on the edge of Portland Harbour, beside Weymouth’s sailing club and beneath the historic ruins of Sandsfoot Castle. It feels slightly different from Weymouth’s main sandy beach, more peaceful and secluded.
The shoreline here is a combination of sand, pebbles, and rock pools that become visible as the tide goes out.
What makes Sandsfoot special is the setting. The castle ruins and gardens above the beach, and the views stretch across the harbour towards Portland. With sailing boats often drifting in and out of the harbour, it’s a lovely place to sit back and enjoy the view.
Why We Love It Here
Sandsfoot has always felt like a laid-back alternative to the busier beaches in Weymouth. When our children were younger, this was often where we went for rock-pool exploring and gentle paddling, especially on warm days when the harbour water feels calmer than the open bay.
Because the beach is located below the castle gardens, it’s easy to enjoy both. We often start with a walk through the gardens, stop at the café overlooking the harbour, then head down to the beach for a paddle or some exploring along the shoreline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. There is a small car park near Sandsfoot Castle and the gardens, with additional on-road parking in nearby residential streets. Spaces are limited during the summer months, so arriving earlier in the day is usually easier.
Yes. Dogs are permitted on Sandsfoot Beach all year round, making it a popular spot for local dog walkers and visitors seeking a peaceful seaside stroll.
Yes, especially for paddling and exploring at low tide. The rock pools are a favourite for children. The water can become deeper more quickly than at Weymouth’s main beach, and there is no lifeguard service, so swimming is safest in calm conditions with supervision.
Facilities are situated just above the beach in Sandsfoot Castle gardens. Here, you’ll find Sandsfoot Café, which offers drinks, snacks, and light meals with lovely harbour views. Public toilets are also available within the gardens.
Sandsfoot Castle stands out as the most prominent landmark, constructed by Henry VIII in the 16th century to protect Portland Harbour. The surrounding gardens are a delightful place to explore, offering sweeping views across the harbour.
From here, you can follow coastal paths towards Weymouth town or in the opposite direction towards Portland Marina, once home to the Olympic sailing events. The nearby sailing club also contributes to the lively atmosphere on the water, with boats frequently launching by the beach.