Kimmeridge Bay
A fossil-rich Jurassic Coast gem with clear waters for snorkeling, rock pools, and stunning coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for fossil hunting & rock pools
Kimmeridge Bay
Best Time
Best for fossil hunting & rock pools
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A fossil-rich Jurassic Coast gem with clear waters for snorkeling, rock pools, and stunning coastal views.
"A gorgeous cove and beach area which still attracts a lot of people but is much calmer than Bournemouth and Poole."
🎯 Check Tide Times First
Low tide is crucial for fossil hunting & exploring rock pools. Don't miss out! :clock1:
🚗 Parking Fee & Location
Pay to park at the top; it's a short walk down. Arrive early for best spots! :parking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fossil Hunting
Along the pebble beach and rock terraces
Unearth ancient ammonites and marine reptile fossils millions of years old. A true Jurassic Coast treasure hunt!
Rock Pooling
Shallow rock pools at low tide
Discover vibrant marine life like anemones and small fish in the natural rock pools. Perfect for curious minds!
Snorkeling & Paddleboarding
Clear waters of the bay
Explore the underwater world with a dedicated snorkeling trail or enjoy the calm waters for paddleboarding.
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Coastal Views
Cliff tops overlooking the bay
Spectacular panoramic views of the Jurassic Coastline, ideal for photography and soaking in the scenery.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Fossil Hunting & Tide Times
Parking & Facilities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Tide Times First
Low tide is crucial for fossil hunting & exploring rock pools. Don't miss out! :clock1:
🚗 Parking Fee & Location
Pay to park at the top; it's a short walk down. Arrive early for best spots! :parking:
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Pebbly beach & rocky terrain require good shoes. Avoid flip-flops! :athletic_shoe:
🪨 Fossil Hunting Ethics
Only take fallen fossils. Respect the environment and the cliffs. :rock:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Tide Times First
Low tide is crucial for fossil hunting & exploring rock pools. Don't miss out! :clock1:
🚗 Parking Fee & Location
Pay to park at the top; it's a short walk down. Arrive early for best spots! :parking:
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Pebbly beach & rocky terrain require good shoes. Avoid flip-flops! :athletic_shoe:
🪨 Fossil Hunting Ethics
Only take fallen fossils. Respect the environment and the cliffs. :rock:
🤿 Snorkel Trail Info
Look for the buoys marking the underwater trail for a guided snorkel.
🥪 Pack Snacks & Water
Limited food options; bring your own for a full day of exploring. :sandwich:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kimmeridge Bay is praised for its stunning natural beauty, rich fossil hunting opportunities, and clear waters ideal for snorkeling and swimming. Visitors appreciate the calmer atmosphere compared to busier Dorset beaches and the fascinating geological formations. While parking has a fee and facilities are basic, the overall experience is highly rewarding for nature enthusiasts and families.
"A gorgeous cove and beach area which still attracts a lot of people but is much calmer than Bournemouth and Poole. It costs £6 to park for the day which is great considering the costs of other car parks. There are places to get food and drink as well as toilets nearby.
The scenery is stunning with lots of wildlife, fossil hunting possibility and rock pools to explore. The rock formations in the area are fascinating and just up the road is The Etches Collection Museum to add to that fossil hunting mindset!"
Jamie Higgs-Dey
"Beautiful nature, fresh sea air. Pebbly beach. The layers in the rock face were fascinating to me and you can see a lot of pieces of stone with imprints of fossils. Easy enough walk down but may be steep for some. Not too busy. A nice place to stop on a coastal walk."
DP
"It costs 6 pounds but I do like this beach. Certain areas are on flat terraces and are shallow which are great for swimming and paddling. Fossils are embedded into the terraces. You can pick up fallen rocks along the beach looking for fossils. The permanent outdoor cafe serves amazing chips. The Sea Life center is charming and welcoming. There is ice cream and clean toilets."
Laura Faulkenberry
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kimmeridge Bay is accessible by car, with parking available at the top of the bay for a fee. It's located on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset. For those using public transport, local bus services may be available, but check schedules in advance as they can be infrequent.
There's a walk down to the bay from the car park. While generally manageable, it can be steep for some, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
No, vehicles are not permitted on the pebble beach itself. Parking is provided at the cliff top overlooking the bay.
Yes, Kimmeridge Bay is a popular day trip destination from London, approximately a 2-hour drive away, offering a great escape to the coast.
Parking is available at the top of the bay and typically costs around £6 for the day. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no direct entry fee for Kimmeridge Bay itself, but there is a parking fee of approximately £6 for vehicles. +1
Kimmeridge Bay is a natural coastal area and is generally accessible at all times. However, facilities like the visitor centre may have specific opening hours.
No, tickets are not required for entry to Kimmeridge Bay. The primary cost is for parking.
Kimmeridge Bay is a conservation area, and while there isn't a specific conservation charge, the parking fee contributes to the upkeep of the site.
The Etches Collection Museum, located near Kimmeridge Bay, showcases an incredible array of fossils found in the area, offering a deeper dive into the region's prehistoric past.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities include fossil hunting, rock pooling, snorkeling, paddleboarding, swimming, and enjoying the coastal scenery. The Dorset Wildlife Trust exhibition is also a highlight. +1
Yes, families love Kimmeridge Bay for its rock pools, fossil hunting opportunities, and safe shallow areas for paddling. The Dorset Wildlife Trust exhibition is particularly engaging for children.
The best time for fossil hunting is during low tide when more of the rock terraces are exposed, revealing potential fossil finds.
Yes, swimming is popular at Kimmeridge Bay, especially in the shallower, flatter terrace areas. The waters can be clear, making it good for a dip.
Yes, there are toilets available at Kimmeridge Bay, usually located near the parking area and food vendors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are a few food options available, including a permanent outdoor cafe known for its chips and ice cream vendors.
You can typically find classic seaside fare like fish and chips, ice cream, and hot drinks from the food trucks and cafe.
Absolutely! Many visitors bring picnics to enjoy the scenic views. It's a good idea to pack snacks and drinks, especially if you plan to spend a full day.
While there are food vendors, they are generally casual outdoor options. The real dining experience is enjoying your food with the stunning sea views.
Options may vary, but classic seaside cafes often have some vegetarian choices. It's best to check with the vendors directly on the day.
📸 📸 Photography
The cliff tops offer panoramic views of the bay and Jurassic Coast. The rock formations and fossil imprints also make for unique close-up shots.
Yes, the west-facing aspect of the bay can offer beautiful sunset views, especially during the summer months.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal landscapes. A macro lens can be useful for photographing small fossils and marine life.
Drone usage may be restricted in conservation areas. It's always best to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone.
The lighting can change rapidly with the coastal weather. Be prepared for potential wind and sea spray, and protect your equipment accordingly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For water fun, the shallow, terraced areas of the bay are perfect for paddling and safe swimming. Consider bringing buckets and spades for beach play. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited, and always supervise children closely, especially near the water and cliffs.
🌊 Adventure Seekers & Water Sports Enthusiasts
+1 Experienced surfers and paddleboarders can enjoy the waves, while beginners can find calmer conditions for learning. +1 The bay's unique geological features create interesting conditions for watersports. Beyond the water, the coastal paths offer invigorating hikes with spectacular views of the Jurassic Coast.
The rugged terrain and dramatic scenery provide a challenging yet rewarding experience for hikers and photographers alike. 🚶♀️ Nature Lovers & Hikers
The unique geology and fossil-rich environment provide endless fascination for those interested in natural history. The bay itself is a beautiful spot to simply relax, breathe in the fresh sea air, and appreciate the dramatic coastal landscape. Don't miss the chance to explore the rock pools at low tide, a miniature ecosystem teeming with life.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Jurassic Coast's Fossil Treasures
Many visitors are thrilled by the sheer abundance and variety of fossils visible, with some even finding significant specimens. The Dorset Wildlife Trust exhibition at the visitor centre provides excellent context and identification guides, enhancing the fossil hunting experience. It's a fantastic opportunity to connect with prehistoric life and understand the geological history of the region.
Pro Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be uneven and slippery. Bring a small hammer and chisel if you're serious about extraction, but always do so responsibly. The thrill of discovery at Kimmeridge Bay is a major draw for paleontologists and casual visitors alike.
Water Activities: From Snorkeling to Surfing
+2Paddleboarding and surfing are also popular, particularly when conditions are right. While it might not be a world-class surf spot, it offers consistent waves suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers. The bay's unique geology creates interesting wave patterns.
+1 It's a great place to try out watersports or simply enjoy a refreshing swim in the sea. Community Insight: Many Redditors and TikTok creators highlight the joy of being in the water at Kimmeridge, whether it's a peaceful paddleboard session or an exhilarating surf. The feeling of freedom and connection with nature is a recurring theme.
+1The Unique Geology and Landscape
The dramatic cliffs and rock formations contribute to the bay's rugged beauty and make it a visually stunning location. This unique landscape is not only visually striking but also historically significant, forming part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. The rocks here are a natural archive, preserving evidence of ancient ecosystems and geological processes. Visitors can learn about this through the local visitor centre and the nearby Etches Collection Museum.
Photographer's Note: The interplay of light on the rock layers and the sea creates dynamic photographic opportunities throughout the day. The rugged coastline provides a dramatic backdrop for any shot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit