Discover Dorset Cottages on the Beach

Everyone’s dream is to live by the sea, whether its a seaside shack or a coastal castle, there’s nothing more aspirational than living in front of the big blue, where you can zone-out to the movement of the swell or fall asleep to the rhythm of the waves.

There are over 40 gorgeous beaches in Dorset, not to mention the rugged cliffs and coves that run the length of this iconic Jurassic coastline. So, when it comes to choosing your seaside holiday home in Dorset, whether you prefer a blue flag beach for the kids, a wild and wonderful bay for your dog or the perfect chill-out scene for a romantic getaway, there are plenty of cottages on the beach to choose from.

Sandbanks

Some of the most beautiful holiday cottages on the beach can be found on the Sandbanks peninsula as it is home to one of the best beaches in the country. Imagine a luxury beach house overlooking powdery golden sand, crystal clear water and spectacular views across the Jurassic coast.

This is an amazing beach resort with high-end beach facilities and a commitment to an impeccable local environment. Sandbanks beach offers everything from water-sports to nature reserves and everything in-between. There are volley ball areas, a saltwater sauna, Sand polo, music events, gastronomic wonders, and lots of sand to chill on.

No wonder the price of real-estate here is astronomical and the 4^th most expensive in the world! But don’t let that scare you away, because holiday rentals, especially holiday apartments, are surprisingly affordable, with some offering special offers, even during the summer holidays. Catering for couples, families and large groups, Sandbanks offers the perfect cottage on the beach for any occasion, including those traveling with pets.

Bournemouth

The seven beautiful miles of sand that make-up Bournemouth Beach are awesome and lined with very desirable beachfront cottages and apartments by the sea. Bournemouth Beach lies directly below a fabulous cliff line that not only creates a temperate climate and warm waters, making it an ideal location for coastal holiday homes with sea views.

Bournemouth Beach has clear blue waters, pristine sand, lots of facilities and incredible views across the Channel to the Isle of Wight and the Purbecks. In reality, it is made up of a chain of beaches known as Alum Chine, Durley Chine, Fisherman’s Walk, Manor Steps and Southbourne.

Any one of these beaches is an idyllic location for a cottage by the seaside and there is plenty of dog friendly accommodation available if you are holidaying with old faithful. Beaches to the western end of Alum Chine Beach, Middle Chine to Durley Chine or East of Fisherman’s Walk Beach to Southbourne Beach allow dogs all year round.

Weymouth

Weymouth Beach is an award-winning haven of golden sand that is quite sheltered in the middle of the Jurassic Coastline. It is the main beach in Weymouth and home to a glorious stretch of golden sand that is backed by elegant Georgian beach houses, apartments with sea views and easy access to the beach.

Families love this beach because it boasts a gradual slope that is perfect for safe swimming for the kiddies. Again, there are several beaches around Weymouth, namely Castle Cove and Sandsfoot, which are lined with fabulous beachfront properties too, some more exclusive than others, but you’ll most certainly find an affordable gem to suit you and your group.

Cottages and apartments in Weymouth vary in prices and sizes and for those travelling with pets, the nearest dog friendly beach area for them to stretch their legs is around the pavilion from the Greenhill Groyne to Overcombe on Weymouth Beach.

Lyme Regis

Lyme Regis has such a picturesque promenade backed by quaint seafront cottages and apartments, and even if you don’t manage to find one available right on the beach you’ll still enjoy sea views from the majority of the seaside cottages behind the front line because of the slopping cliff that sits behind. This cliff also serves as pleasurable shelter for the bay, hence its fabulous warm climate, especially in the summer.

All this could make Lyme Regis feel quite continental, were it not for its quintessential British architecture that varies from of elegant, modern penthouses to thatched cottages. All irresistible with easy access to the beaches, which are all wonderful. There are sandy beaches for kids to build sand castles and pebbled beaches that benefit from less crowds and fossil beaches which are a must. Dog friendly options for summertime include East Cliff Beach, Church Cliff Beach and Monmouth Beach.

Portland

If nature and un-spoilt beaches are your thing, then Portland is the place to be. Seaside cottages are mostly around the harbour area but it’s a small peninsula with sea vistas in every direction so coastal walks are part of its charm.

So, whilst you can enjoy the delights of the historic town and all its cultural trappings you are never far from coastal wildlife, walks and water sports. Portland is wild and rugged and filled with nature thanks to the incredible Chesil Beach. Technically, it measures 18 miles, running from Portland to Bridport!

Chesil Beach’s dimensions serve to isolate Chesil Cove in Portland and its neighbouring beaches so that marine wildlife truly flourishes. You’ll spot Grey Seals and Basking Sharks at the very least. Dog friendly zones can be found all along Chesil Beach, with the exception of special nature reserve areas.  

Swanage

Swanage is a delightful coastal town with amazing coastal cottages right on the seafront and all-round its green sloping cliffs, headland and hills. It is almost difficult to find a seaside holiday home that doesn’t have spectacular sea views!

The town itself is made for family holidays with historic heritage sights to see, such as Corfe Castle, a few museums, and lots of water sports activities to enjoy. It has beautiful beaches and charming beach houses on the seafront, so very easy for families to experience the beachy lifestyle without any fuss. Again, there are plenty of dog friendly coastal cottages and pet friendly beach areas such as North Beach and Monkey Beach.

All of the Dorset cottages on the beach listed with us can be booked securely online with the property manager direct, with many large enough for groups of eight or more or two families sharing.