West Wittering Beach and East Head
A stunning stretch of golden sand and dunes, West Wittering Beach offers clear waters and breathtaking coastal views, with the wild beauty of East Hea...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
West Wittering Beach and East Head
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning stretch of golden sand and dunes, West Wittering Beach offers clear waters and breathtaking coastal views, with the wild beauty of East Head nearby.
"This stunningly beautiful place is a protected, enchanted place you will never forget."
🚗 Book Parking Online
Essential for West Wittering! Book ahead for cheaper rates & guaranteed entry. :admission_tickets:
🚶♀️ Explore East Head
Escape the main beach crowds for dunes & wildlife. A National Trust gem! :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
West Wittering Sandy Beach
Main beach area
Expansive golden sands, clear waters, and stunning coastal views make this a quintessential English beach experience.
East Head National Trust
Eastern end of West Wittering Beach
A rugged natural beauty with sand dunes, salt marshes, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for a peaceful stroll.
+1
Chichester Harbour Views
Along East Head and West Wittering shoreline
Enjoy panoramic vistas of the harbour, Hayling Island, and the Solent, especially breathtaking at sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Parking in Advance!
Explore East Head for a Different Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Book Parking Online
Essential for West Wittering! Book ahead for cheaper rates & guaranteed entry. :admission_tickets:
🚶♀️ Explore East Head
Escape the main beach crowds for dunes & wildlife. A National Trust gem! :hiking_boot:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Areas
Dogs are welcome, but check seasonal restrictions for specific zones. :dog:
🌅 Sunset Views
Spectacular sunsets over Chichester Harbour. Don't miss this! :city_sunset:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Book Parking Online
Essential for West Wittering! Book ahead for cheaper rates & guaranteed entry. :admission_tickets:
🚶♀️ Explore East Head
Escape the main beach crowds for dunes & wildlife. A National Trust gem! :hiking_boot:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Areas
Dogs are welcome, but check seasonal restrictions for specific zones. :dog:
🌅 Sunset Views
Spectacular sunsets over Chichester Harbour. Don't miss this! :city_sunset:
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Ideal for walking along the beach and exploring East Head's dunes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about West Wittering Beach's stunning sandy shores, clear waters, and beautiful sunset views. The nearby East Head is praised for its unspoiled dunes and wildlife. While parking can be a challenge and it gets very busy, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many calling it an unforgettable destination.
"Gorgeous beach. Dog friendly. Lovely pub serving food all day overlooking the sea. Go early as it gets very busy. Beautiful crystal clear water, with a sheltered bay, great for swimming Lovely views over to Portsmouth. Local foot ferry takes only 5 minutes to cross."
Sharon Pritchard
"How can this stunningly beautiful place be so close to London? Emerging from miles of spotless sandy beaches to the east, and to the west, almost an island, sits East Head. Unspoiled sand dunes filled with grasses and wildlife, this place is a protected, enchanted place. Sitting at the mouth of Chichester Harbour, enjoy amazing views of the harbour, Hayling Island, Thorney Island, the Solent and the Isle of Wight. Leave behind the crowds on West Wittering Beach and take a hour to stroll around its entire shoreline or take a shorter route through the dunes. In the evening watch the sun go down and enjoy the famous sunsets in this area.
I guarantee it’s a place you will never forget and you will visit again."
John Bowers
"Warm clear water, soft clean sand, great wave, great views and beautiful sunset. Huge parking, booking in advance for cheaper price through the website or pay normal rate on arrival day on Exit or pay after within 48 hours"
Uraiwan Gołuch
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by car, with ample parking available (booking recommended!). You can also reach it via public transport by taking a bus from Chichester. Some visitors enjoy cycling along the Salterns Way route.
Yes, you can take a bus from Chichester to West Wittering. For a scenic journey, consider the Itchenor Ferry which connects to nearby areas.
East Head is located at the eastern end of West Wittering Beach. You can walk to it from the main West Wittering car park, or access it via coastal paths.
Absolutely! The Salterns Way is a popular cycling route that leads to West Wittering and East Head, offering beautiful scenery along the way.
Yes, there is a large car park. It's highly recommended to book your parking online in advance, especially during peak season, to secure a spot and potentially get a better rate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the beach itself is free. However, there is a charge for parking, which can be booked online in advance or paid on arrival.
East Head is a National Trust site. While access to the beach is generally free, parking is managed by West Wittering Estate and may incur charges.
The beach and car park are typically open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official West Wittering Estate website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, booking parking online in advance is strongly advised. This often secures a cheaper rate and guarantees your space.
Booking your parking online in advance is usually the best way to get a cheaper price compared to paying on the day.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, walking along the shore, and exploring the dunes at East Head. It's also a popular spot for kite surfing and paddleboarding.
Yes, the water is often described as warm and clear, with a sheltered bay making it great for swimming.
Dogs are generally welcome at West Wittering Beach, but there may be seasonal restrictions in certain areas. Always check local signage.
Facilities typically include toilets, a cafe serving food, and showers.
East Head is a National Trust nature reserve featuring unspoiled sand dunes, salt marshes, and diverse wildlife, offering stunning views across Chichester Harbour.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a beach cafe that serves food all day, offering a convenient option for visitors.
Picnics are welcome, and many visitors enjoy bringing their own food to enjoy on the beach. Remember to take all your rubbish with you.
While the beach cafe is on-site, you can find pubs and restaurants in the nearby villages of East Wittering and Itchenor.
The cafe typically offers a range of snacks, light meals, and drinks suitable for a beach day.
Yes, reviews mention a lovely pub serving food all day overlooking the sea, perfect for enjoying the views.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoons and evenings offer beautiful golden hour light and stunning sunsets over Chichester Harbour.
The sand dunes of East Head, the wide sandy beach, and the panoramic views across the harbour are all incredibly picturesque.
Drone usage may be restricted, especially over the National Trust area of East Head and due to proximity to the harbour. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions.
Expect shots of expansive beaches, dramatic sand dunes, coastal wildlife, and breathtaking sunsets.
Capture the scale of the beach, the textures of the dunes, and the changing light during sunrise and sunset for dramatic effect.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a change of scenery, a walk to East Head offers a chance for kids to explore sand dunes and look for wildlife. It's a good idea to pack plenty of sun protection, snacks, and drinks, as the beach can get very busy. Booking parking in advance is crucial to ensure a smooth arrival.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to check for any seasonal dog restrictions to ensure you're adhering to local guidelines. Bringing water and waste bags is essential for a responsible visit. The beach community is often very welcoming to dogs and their owners.
🚶♀️ Walkers and Nature Enthusiasts
+1Consider exploring the Salterns Way for a longer cycling or walking route. The views across Chichester Harbour are spectacular, especially during sunrise and sunset, making it a prime location for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Natural Beauty of East Head
+1This area is a haven for wildlife, with various bird species nesting in the dunes. Walking the circular route around East Head provides breathtaking views across Chichester Harbour, towards Hayling Island and the Solent. It's an ideal spot for birdwatching, photography, and simply enjoying the unspoiled coastal scenery. Remember to tread lightly and respect the delicate ecosystem.
Many visitors recommend taking an hour to stroll around East Head's entire shoreline or opt for a shorter route through the dunes. It's a place that truly captures the imagination and leaves a lasting impression, often described as an 'enchanted place' that you'll want to revisit.
Planning Your Visit: Parking and Crowds
To avoid the hassle, booking your parking online in advance is strongly recommended. This not only guarantees your space but often comes with a cheaper rate than paying on the day. If you do arrive without a booking, be prepared for potential queues or even being turned away if the car park is full.
For a less crowded experience, consider visiting on a weekday, especially during the off-season or shoulder months. Early mornings on any day can also offer a more peaceful atmosphere before the main crowds arrive. Exploring East Head can also provide a welcome respite from the busier main beach areas.
+1Dog-Friendly Adventures
While dogs are generally welcome, it's important to be aware of any seasonal restrictions that might be in place. These are often implemented to protect ground-nesting birds or to manage visitor experience during the busiest summer months. Always check local signage or the West Wittering Estate website for the most current dog access rules.
Many visitors appreciate the freedom to let their dogs run free, making it a truly enjoyable outing for the whole family, including furry members. The community aspect is also highlighted, with groups like 'Sausage Dogs WW Walks' organizing meetups, fostering a friendly atmosphere for dog lovers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit