Weymouth Beach
Weymouth Beach is one of the finest sandy beaches in Dorset and, in our opinion, among the very best family beaches anywhere on the south coast. Stretching along the sweeping curve of Weymouth Bay, it offers soft golden sand, safe swimming, excellent facilities and a traditional seaside atmosphere.
Its reputation isn’t just local either. Weymouth Beach was named the UK’s Best Beach by TripAdvisor in 2025 and was featured as the UK’s best beach by The Times in 2023, recognition that reflects what so many visitors discover for themselves.
One of the things we love most is that everything is within easy walking distance. Step off the beach and you’re moments from cafés, ice-cream kiosks, restaurants, independent shops, and the picturesque Weymouth Harbour. And within a short walking distance you have attractions such as Alexandra Gardens, the family amusement park, and the historic Nothe Fort. It means a day at the beach never has to be just a day on the sand.
During the summer months, Weymouth takes on an even more vibrant atmosphere. Monday evening fireworks throughout August light up the bay, while on Tuesday evenings the popular Leggomen performances in the beach, near The Boat Café, remain something we still enjoy returning to year after year.
Why We Love Weymouth Beach
We’ve been visiting Weymouth Beach for years, and it’s become part of our family life.
Some of our favourite family photographs were taken here. When the children were younger, we’d arrive armed with buckets, crabbing nets and bodyboards, knowing we’d probably spend the whole day on the beach. Later came paddleboards and kayaks, and today, if we’re lucky enough to have an early-morning free, you’ll often find us out on the water before the beach begins to fill.
One of the reasons we keep returning is that every visit feels a little different. Some days we’ll stay on the beach for hours, while on others we’ll wander along the Esplanade for breakfast, browse the harbour, stop for an ice cream at Rossi’s, or take a walk up to Nothe Gardens for one of the best views across the bay.
Our children always loved calling into the Alexandra Gardens amusement arcade. Collecting tickets and deciding which prizes to exchange them for became a staple of every family trip, and it’s still one of those little traditions we smile about whenever we walk past.
For us, that’s what makes Weymouth Beach so special. It isn’t just somewhere to swim or sunbathe. It’s a place where holidays naturally create lasting memories, whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to Dorset year after year.
Staying Nearby
Many of our Weymouth holiday cottages are just a short drive from the beach, making it easy to enjoy everything from early-morning walks along the Esplanade to relaxed evenings watching the sunset over Weymouth Bay. Several of our holiday cottages in Dorchester are about a 20-minute drive from Weymouth Beach, giving you the chance to enjoy the coastline during the day before returning to the countryside.
Whether you’re planning a family holiday by the sea, looking for a luxury holiday cottage in Dorset, dog-friendly accommodation, or a cottage with a hot tub after a day on the beach, we’d love to help you discover the very best of this wonderful corner of Dorset.
If you’re celebrating something special, don’t forget to explore our Concierge Services, where we can arrange everything from private chefs at your cottage to unforgettable sunset cruises aboard a privately chartered boat departing from Weymouth Harbour. As part of our concierge services, we can also arrange for bikes to be delivered to your cottage, giving you a hassle-free way to explore Weymouth without using your car.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. There are several large pay-and-display car parks within a short walk of Weymouth Beach, along with additional parking around the town centre. During the school holidays and peak times, they can fill quickly, so arriving earlier in the day is always worthwhile.
Yes, although seasonal restrictions apply to the main central beach between 1 May and 30 September.
If you’re staying at one of our dog-friendly holiday cottages, outside these dates, dogs are welcome on the beach, while nearby beaches, including Bowleaze Cove, Castle Cove and Ringstead Bay, provide excellent alternatives throughout much of the year.
Absolutely. The sheltered bay, gently shelving shoreline and usually calm conditions make Weymouth Beach one of Dorset’s most popular places for swimming and family beach days. It’s also one of our favourite places for paddleboarding, particularly on calm summer mornings.
Everything you need is close by. Public toilets, cafés, takeaway kiosks, beach equipment hire, deckchairs, restaurants, shops and family attractions are all within a few minutes’ walk, making it easy to spend an entire day here without needing to leave the seafront.
One of the biggest advantages of Weymouth Beach is that you’re never short of things to do. There are so many because the beach is a short walk from the main town centre and Weymouth Harbour. If you fancy eating there, we’ve produced a guide on the best places to eat in Weymouth Harbour. Nearby places also worth visiting include the Alexandra Gardens Arcade and Family Amusement Park, set back from the Esplanade and Nothe Fort.
A short drive away, you’ll also discover SEA LIFE Weymouth, Sandsfoot Castle, Bowleaze Cove, Portland, and some of Dorset’s most spectacular Jurassic Coast scenery.