Dorset is a popular destination for those opting for staycations, with this summer seeing a 60% rise in Google searches for ‘best beaches in Dorset.’ This stretch of the Jurassic Coast is home to numerous beautiful beaches, but one hidden gem that you may not have heard of is Monmouth Beach. Just a five to 10-minute walk from Lyme Regis, this stunning beach is typically quieter than those nearer the town.

Singing the beach’s praises, Gemma Matthews, owner of Dorset & Devon Holiday Cottages, says: “It’s easy for people to overlook Monmouth Beach and head straight to the busier Lyme Regis beaches slightly further along the coast, especially as it is a pebble beach. However, holidaymakers shouldn’t judge it based on its pebbles alone—the beach has so much to offer.”

While Monmouth Beach may be lesser known than its sandy neighbours, this also means that it will be quieter, giving visitors a break from the crowds at these other beaches.

It’s also a great choice, whatever your interests, with Gemma adding: “If you’re into history and adventure, a fossil hunt is a great way to spend the day at the beach. Monmouth is the perfect place to find small ammonites and plant fossils; some have even found evidence of other prehistoric creatures!

“If you’re lucky, you may even spot some impressive live creatures on your visit. Chippel Bay, the stretch of water just off its shore, is frequently visited by seals and dolphins, which are always a special sight.

“If you’re looking for a more relaxing time, the beach is dog-friendly all year-round, perfect for walking your four-legged friend whilst taking in the stunning views of the Jurassic Coast, especially at sunset.”

Just 10 minutes from Monmouth Beach on foot is the bustling town of Lyme Regis. The pretty town was named one of the UK’s ‘most beautiful’ seaside towns last year, according to global travel site Big 7 Travel.

The travel firm partnered with Holidaycars.com to find out the country’s favourite seaside town using their social media audience of 371,000 followers. Lyme Regis came in sixth place on the list, with New Quay in Ceredigion, Wales, clinching the top spot.

Gemma isn’t the only one who’s a fan of Monmouth Beach, with visitors taking to TripAdvisor to share their own thoughts on the beach.

One wrote: “I loved this beach—just a little bit of sand—enough for a paddle and fantastic for fossil hunting. It’s not difficult to find them if you look carefully.”

Another added: “A great beach for rock pooling and fossil hunting. There were lots of different types of crabs and small fish to see, as well as jellyfish in the shallow water (it was a very hot day, though).

“It’s just a 10-minute walk to the sandy Lyme Regis beach, where all the fish and chip and ice cream shops are too, so a great place to visit as a family.”

While a third wrote: “We had a fantastic morning exploring the beach and the ammonite pavement. Make sure you wear some good footwear and take a little care as it’s very rocky but that’s just nature!

“We enjoyed a very good value cup of tea at the bowls club, The host there was very friendly and chatty proper old customer service. We then explored the town which is full of great shops and so many places to eat good food. Our only minor gripe is at the parking was a little bit expensive.”