Durdle Door Beach

The main feature of this iconic cove is the magnificent limestone arch leading into the clear, aquamarine waters of the sea. The arch, which separates Durdle Door from Man o’War Bay, was formed by thousands of years’ of pounding waves sweeping against the headland. 

Curving away from the arch the the sand and shingle beach at Durdle Door is backed by the high limestone cliffs of the Jurassic Coast. Fossils, ammonites and belemnites are regularly found along this stretch although care should be taken under the cliffs because there are occasional rock falls in the area.

During the summer months the crystal clear waters look extremely tempting, and on sunny days the area is popular with swimmers and snorkelers. However, there is no lifeguard and children need to be closely supervised as the sand in the bay shelves suddenly in places. 

Even if you feel less energetic this beach is a beautiful spot to relax with a picnic, whilst taking in the spectacular scenery.

There is a pay-and-display car park at the cliff top. From March to the end of October, toilets with disabled facilities can be found at the nearby Durdle Door Holiday Park. There are plenty of walks with well-signposted footpaths nearby, including the South West Coast Path.