Everything you need to know about Kimmeridge Bay
At Clavells we are incredibly lucky to be located just minutes away from the stunning Kimmeridge Bay, which lies on the dramatic Jurassic Coast.
A highlight of the South West Coast Path walking trail, Kimmeridge Bay is also hugely popular with both day trippers and local residents (as well as dogs who can enjoy being off lead all year round).
Here’s a roundup of everything you need to know about Kimmeridge Bay to help you plan your visit to this beautiful spot.
How to get to Kimmeridge Bay:
From Clavells it is only 1 mile (a 5 minute drive) in the car to Kimmeridge Bay. You will reach a small hut where you are required to pay a £6 toll - this includes your parking for the day.
Carry on down to the car park where you can park up and take in the breath taking views. It is only a short walk down the footpath from the carpark to the beach.
What’s the beach like?
Kimmeridge Bay is a unique beach in that there is no sand and it’s incredibly sheltered. It’s a rocky bay which has endless rock pools for children and adults to explore and enjoy.
It’s also one of the safest snorkelling sites in Dorset with a world famous snorkel trail through its shallow waters. The bay is situated within a marine Special Area of Conservation so it’s essential to respect the water and all the life within it.
What to do at Kimmeridge Bay:
There really is something for everyone at this unique Dorset gem. From lying on the beach and listening to the sound of the waves, to surfing and snorkelling - you can take your pick.
Climb up to Clavells Tower
Pack a pair of trainers or walking boots in your beach bag and you can spring up the steps to this historic tower. Read more about the history of the tower here LINK TO OTHER BLOG POST
Visit The Wild Seas Centre
Open daily from 11am-4pm, you’ll find interactive displays and a small aquarium at this hidden gem. Learn more about the bay, its history and its marine life from the enthusiastic staff and their expert knowledge.
Try out the snorkel trail
With its sheltered positioning and warm waters, Kimmeridge Bay is the ideal spot for safe snorkelling. The snorkel trail here is world famous and you simply need to follow the easy to spot buoys to navigate your way around.
Look for fossils
The Kimmeridge clay is rich with fossils, especially at the eastern end of the bay. Kids will love spotting the large ammonite fossils, and if you want to explore the world of fossil hunting further, why not include a visit to The Etches Collection, directly opposite Clavells?
Enjoy the rock pools
Children and adults alike will love exploring these miniature underwater worlds. When the tide is out, the rockpools are endless - although make sure you take care on the uneven surfaces.
Start your trip
If you’re tempted to take a trip to Kimmeridge Bay, we’d love to be part of your visit.
Book a table here and you can enjoy breakfast, coffee, lunch, dinner or drinks with us before or after you explore the bay- we can’t wait to welcome you!
