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Dorset Beach Cottages

Choose from 1,018 self-catering holiday homes in Dorset

Dorset is a well-known coastal destination, offering a mix of sandy beaches, cliffs and traditional seaside towns. Our Dorset beach cottages are located along this stretch of coastline, making it easy to stay close to the sea. Choose from options including sea view cottages, giving you a direct outlook across the coast. Whether you are planning a short break or a longer stay, Dorset provides a range of settings from busy resort areas to quieter villages. With its varied coastline and well-known landmarks, it is a straightforward choice for a relaxed coastal holiday.

Dorset Cottages by Type

Dorset beaches, towns and coastal areas

 

Coastal towns in Dorset

Dorset’s coastline includes a range of towns that each offer a different style of seaside stay. Bournemouth is one of the most well-known, with its long sandy beach and seafront facilities, while Weymouth provides a traditional seaside atmosphere with a sheltered bay. Further along the coast, Swanage offers a smaller town setting with easy access to nearby coastal landmarks. In contrast, places like Lyme Regis combine a harbour setting with access to quieter sections of coastline.

 

Best beaches in Dorset

There is a wide variety of beaches across Dorset, from long sandy stretches like Sandbanks to more natural coastal areas. Bournemouth Beach is one of the largest and most accessible, while Weymouth Beach is known for its gently sloping shoreline. Studland Bay offers a more open and natural setting, with dunes and wide views. Further west, beaches around Lyme Regis and Charmouth are known for their distinctive character and changing shoreline.

 

Exploring the Dorset coastline

Dorset’s coastline is part of the Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage Site known for its cliffs, rock formations and coastal views. The South West Coast Path runs through the area, linking towns, beaches and key landmarks such as Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. Visitors can explore different sections of the coast, combining walking routes with time in nearby towns or quieter coastal areas. For more ideas on places to visit and things to do, you can explore the Visit Dorset website.

Your questions answered

Towns such as Weymouth and Bournemouth are great for a classic seaside break, with long sandy beaches, family attractions, cafes and plenty of nearby accommodation. They are ideal if you want an easy, lively beach holiday with everything close at hand.

Yes, Dorset is one of the best places in the UK for coastal walking. The Jurassic Coast offers dramatic views, famous landmarks and access to the South West Coast Path, making it ideal for visitors who want more than just time on the beach.

Yes, Dorset is well known for fossil hunting, especially around places like Charmouth and Lyme Regis. These beaches are popular with families and day trippers looking to explore the coastline and discover part of the area’s natural history.

Dorset has plenty of quieter coastal spots as well as busy seaside towns. Beaches and bays such as Studland and other parts of the Jurassic Coast are popular for visitors looking for a more relaxed setting, natural scenery and peaceful walks.

Beachlets offers a range of Dorset beach holiday accommodation, including sea view apartments, family-friendly cottages and coastal holiday homes close to the beach. Whether you want a base in a lively resort or somewhere more peaceful, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Things to do in Dorset

  • Go fossil hunting in Lyme Regis
    Lyme Regis is one of the best places on the Jurassic Coast for fossil hunting, especially with a guided walk or a visit to the local museum.
  • Visit Corfe Castle
    Corfe Castle is one of Dorset’s standout historic sites, with castle ruins, village streets and views across the Isle of Purbeck.
  • Walk along Chesil Beach
    Chesil Beach is one of Dorset’s most distinctive coastal features, with a long shingle ridge stretching from Portland towards West Bay.
  • Visit the Tank Museum near Wareham
    The Tank Museum at Bovington is one of Dorset’s best indoor attractions and works well for a rainy day.
  • Spend a day in Bournemouth
    Bournemouth gives you a long sandy beach, pier, gardens, restaurants, shopping and plenty to do beyond the seafront.

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