Visit Chesil Beach near Portland, Dorset. Explore this 18-mile shingle barrier, walk the Jurassic Coast, and enjoy dramatic sea views and wildlife.

A Dramatic Dorset Landmark

Looking for a truly unique coastal experience? Chesil Beach, stretching from Portland to West Bay, is one of England’s most extraordinary natural wonders. At its Portland end, this sweeping 18-mile shingle ridge meets the Isle of Portland, creating a rugged and powerful landscape that defines the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.

It’s wild, raw, and unforgettable — a must-visit for anyone exploring Dorset’s coast.

A Beach Like No Other

Unlike sandy holiday beaches, Chesil Beach is a massive shingle barrier made up of billions of pebbles. It protects the low-lying Fleet Lagoon behind it and acts as a natural sea defence. The pebbles are largest at Portland and gradually get smaller toward West Bay — a fascinating feature shaped entirely by nature.

Walking along the ridge, you’ll hear the distinct sound of the pebbles shifting under the waves — a rhythmic reminder of the sea’s power.

The Portland End: Rugged and Remote

At the Portland end, Chesil Beach is at its wildest and most dramatic. It’s a place of vast horizons, crashing surf, and uninterrupted views along the coast.

Highlights include:

Chesil Beach Visitor Centre – Located near the Portland causeway with interactive exhibits on geology, wildlife, and the Jurassic Coast.

Fleet Lagoon Nature Reserve – A haven for birds and marine life, best viewed from the visitor centre or nearby walking trails.

Chesil Cove – A popular spot for photographers and walkers, especially at sunset.

This area is ideal for quiet contemplation, coastal walks, and photography rather than swimming, as currents here can be strong.

Wildlife and Natural Beauty

Chesil Beach and the Fleet Lagoon form one of the UK’s most important wildlife habitats. You might spot:

Oystercatchers, terns, and ringed plovers nesting in the shingle.

Butterflies and wildflowers thriving in the coastal dunes.

Migrating birds resting along the lagoon during spring and autumn.

The Chesil Beach Centre, run by the Dorset Wildlife Trust, offers nature trails, guided walks, and local conservation insight.

Learn more on the Dorset Wildlife Trust website

Walking and Exploring

Chesil Beach forms part of the South West Coast Path, offering scenic walks with panoramic views across Lyme Bay. From Portland, you can:

Walk toward Abbotsbury, passing the Fleet Lagoon and countryside villages.

Climb to Portland Heights for sweeping views of the Jurassic Coast.

Follow the trail to Portland Bill, home to a lighthouse and dramatic cliffs.

Bring sturdy shoes — walking on shingle can be challenging but rewarding.

Facilities and Access

At the Portland end, you’ll find:

Chesil Beach Visitor Centre with café, toilets, and free exhibits.

Car park near the causeway.

Interpretive trails and viewpoints.

Swimming is not advised due to strong undertow currents, but it’s a paradise for walkers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.

Why Visit Chesil Beach (Portland End)?

With its untamed beauty, geological significance, and incredible coastal views, Chesil Beach offers a raw, authentic slice of the English seaside. The Portland end is where nature shows its true power — dramatic, peaceful, and endlessly inspiring.

Stand on Chesil Beach, listen to the sea, and experience the wild heart of the Jurassic Coast.