Castle Cove (Sandsfoot Cove)
Known locally as Sandsfoot Cove, Castle Cove beach lies within the Portland Harbour, about 100 yards from Sandsfoot Castle and Gardens. The secluded, sandy beach slopes gently into the water, and is backed by greenery and low-rise cliffs. Castle Cove is a great beach for kids with lots to see, safe paddling and at low tide there are some interesting rockpools.
The beach is privately owned and in 2013, public access to the beach was closed, when the steps down to the beach were removed after damage caused by coastal erosion. Locals launched a successful campaign to have access to the beach restored.
Overlooking the beach are the majestic ruins of Sandsfoot Castle which are worth a visit. The castle was built by Henry VIII, to defend Portland Harbour.
The Castle Cove Sailing Club is located close to the beach.
Also known as:
Sandsfoot Cove
Type of beach
Sandy
Lifeguard service
No
Dogs friendly beach?
Dogs allowed
Castle Cove beach is dog friendly all year round
Activities
- Sailing
- Swimming/bathing
- Rock pooling
Facilities
- Slipway
Nearest town
Postcode
DT4 8QG
OS grid ref.
SY 6757 7761
Parking
There is a small amount of free on-road parking by the beaches.
Water quality
Awards
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Castle Cove Reviews
Beach visitor
Claire
May 30th 2022Spend a couple of hours happily playing on beach building sand castles and paddling
Building site with a view.
Rach
Sep 27th 2021It’s a privately owned beach but even so its not worth the visit. The building works above it have been going on since last year and now take up some of the beach. Rubbish as a beach but if you want a building site with sea air this is the place to come. Builders also park allover the pavement because pedestrians don’t matter.