Reconnect with the water in Dorset

Stand Up Paddleboarding and kayaking are super popular and a great way to enjoy some quiet time on the water. 

There’s no better place to admire the beautiful Dorset coast than from the sea and why not learn a new skill whilst you’re at it? 

There are many places in Dorset where you can get expert tuition for first timers or join an organised paddle tour or kayaking lesson. 

Studland Bay is a beautiful, secluded setting to try Stand Up Paddleboarding. Explore the wildlife and sea life of the bay with the stunning backdrop of Old Harry Rocks and the Jurassic Coast. 

Weymouth and Lyme Regis are also great spots for Stand Up Paddleboarding with equally stunning vistas.   

A lot like stand up paddleboarding, but with less chance of falling into the water, kayaking is a scenic and gentle way to explore the coast. 

Go as fast or slow as you like or just let the current guide you as you meander across the water, stopping for breaks and gazing into the water as you go. 

No matter your experience level, always remember to check the water conditions, tides and weather beforehand, and be prepared as conditions can change quickly.  

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of sea swimming. Whether you’re a seasoned sea swimmer or looking to dip your toe in for the first time, Dorset’s coast will not disappoint. 

Swimmers often rave about the euphoric feeling they experience during and after the swim as well as the mental health benefits and there’s no better place to give it a go than in Dorset.  

There are many places to enjoy a dip, why not head to Weymouth and swim at Greenhill Beach with the picturesque backdrop of beach huts or Newton’s Cove which offers millpond conditions or head to Bowleaze Cove where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views across Weymouth Bay. Lyme Regis also offers some lovely spots for sea swimming. 

If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, try Dancing Ledge near Swanage; this saltwater pool was originally blasted out of the rock sometime near the beginning of the 20th century and is a well-known beauty spot popular with climbing enthusiasts. 

To access the ledge you’ll need to climb down 5 metres from the cliffs and the walk back up is also pretty steep. This is true wild swimming and not for the faint hearted, but if you’re seeking some adventure, have some climbing skills and want to swim in a picturesque location, this is the perfect place for you. You’ll need some aqua shoes and it’s best to go at low tide on a dry day. 

Safety is key, so it's important to be mindful of local conditions, as currents and tides can vary. Many local swimming clubs offer group swims, adding an extra layer of security for newcomers or go with an experienced swim buddy. 

Dorset’s sea swimming not only offers a chance to connect with nature but also to enjoy our scenic beauty and tranquil seaside ambiance. 

If you don’t just want to dip your toe in the water and would rather dive right in, there are plenty of opportunities to go snorkelling or diving along the Dorset coast. 

At Kimmeridge Bay, follow the Snorkel Trail for a chance to see peacock’s tail seaweed, connemara clingfish or Montagu’s blennies. If you don’t have your own snorkelling gear, you can buy some from the Wild Seas Centre on the edge of the bay. At the Centre, you’ll also find lots of information about the marine wildlife that can be seen in the rockpools nearby. 

Experienced divers can explore shipwrecks and underneath piers to see a huge variety of fish and other sea creatures which go unnoticed by those above the water. Diving day trips operate from Swanage Pier, Weymouth Harbour and Poole. Beginners can do a 'try dive' at Swanage Pier as part of a diving day experience. 

Whether you’re a beginner or advanced, we’d always recommend booking on a guided tour and seeking advice from local experts – it’ll make for a much more enjoyable and safer day out when you get to see all the best bits of Dorset below the waterline.