If you’re considering a move to Dorset, you’re in for a treat.

This stunning county on England’s south coast boasts some of the best seaside towns in the UK, each offering a unique blend of coastal charm, history, and modern amenities.

Dorset’s seaside towns are known for their scenic beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant communities, making them ideal for families, retirees, and professionals alike – but which one is the best match for you?

As a removals company based in Christchurch, Dorset, we have years of experience moving people to some of the best seaside locations the county has to offer – so we though we would put our experience to good use and help you decide which area to move to!

This guide will take you through the 12 best seaside towns to live in Dorset, helping you decide which coastal spot might be the perfect place for your new home.

1.) Lyme Regis: Coastal Charm and History

Lyme Regis is one of Dorset’s most iconic seaside towns, known for its fossil-rich beaches and stunning Jurassic Coast.

Nestled in a picturesque setting, Lyme Regis combines historical charm with a lively community spirit.

The town’s Georgian architecture, charming harbour, and famous Cobb wall make it a favourite for history lovers and ensures that there is plenty to see and do for any families considering a move to the area.

With its thriving local culture, great restaurants, and boutique shops, Lyme Regis offers an excellent mix of modern amenities and timeless charm.

The town’s excellent schools and vibrant community events make it a fantastic place for families looking to relocate.

There are clearly some excellent reasons to move to the area and it is worthy of its place on our list of the best seaside towns to live in Dorset!

2.) Swanage: A Seaside Gem on the Jurassic Coast

Swanage is a coastal gem offering golden sandy beaches, breathtaking cliffs, and endless opportunities for outdoor activities.

Located at the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast, this town is the perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking a somewhat slower pace of life.

Despite its rural appeal and relaxed lifestyle, locals still have the opportunity to get out and enjoy their free time.

This is thanks in no small part to the excellent transport links on offer, with easy connections to Bournemouth and beyond, which subsequently makes it an attractive option for commuters as well.

Families will appreciate the outstanding schools and the wide variety of properties available in the area, with homes ranging from charming cottages to modern detached houses.

3.) Bridport: Arts and Culture by the Sea

Bridport is a thriving market town located near the stunning West Bay and is another top location to consider if you are looking to relocate to the Dorset coast.

Known for its artsy vibe and strong sense of community, Bridport is perfect for those who love creativity and culture.

With regular markets, art galleries, and vibrant festivals, Bridport is a truly unique spot that is sure to charm visitors.

The town also offers a diverse range of property types and affordable housing options, making it one of the most desirable seaside towns to live in Dorset.

4.) Weymouth: The Best of Retirement Living by the Sea

Often regarded as one of the top seaside towns in the UK for retirees, Weymouth offers a relaxing lifestyle combined with excellent amenities.

With its beautiful sandy beaches, fresh seafood, and welcoming community, Weymouth is perfect for those looking to enjoy coastal living in their retirement years.

The town’s accessibility via strong transport links makes it an attractive choice for those seeking tranquillity without sacrificing convenience – making this the perfect location to enjoy a quiet day by the beach whilst still being able to visit friends and family when you need to.

With a harmonious blend of natural beauty, historical charm, active community spirit, and a tranquil lifestyle, it is no surprise that Weymouth is one of the most sought-after destinations for people seeking the finest of coastal living.

5.) Poole: A Modern Coastal Town with Rich History

Poole, with its world-famous harbour, is a thriving coastal town offering a unique blend of history and modern living.

It’s an ideal location for professionals and families, offering excellent employment opportunities, a lively nightlife scene, and top schools.

Poole has undergone significant regeneration in recent years, making it one of the most up-and-coming towns in Dorset.

With a mix of traditional and modern housing, Poole is ideal for those looking for variety in property types, from apartments near the harbour to family homes.

The town is also a gateway to Bournemouth, offering excellent transport connections to the rest of the UK.

To find out more about life in Poole, check out our dedicated guide, where we discuss everything you need to know in greater detail.

6.) Bournemouth: A Premier Seaside Town in Dorset

Bournemouth is one of the most well-known seaside towns in not only Dorset but the whole of the UK, famous for its seven miles of golden sandy beaches!

These expansive beaches offer the perfect setting for a wide variety of activities, from relaxing in the sun to trying out exciting water sports.

Bournemouth Beach consistently ranks among the top in the UK, drawing both locals and tourists when the British summer arrives, if it ever does!

In addition to its beaches, Bournemouth’s mild climate makes it one of the warmest places in the UK, ideal for those who enjoy outdoor living.

The town’s gardens, like the Lower Gardens, are meticulously kept and provide a peaceful retreat from the busier parts of town, making it a haven for nature lovers living in the busy town.

Bournemouth is also home to some of Dorset’s most popular attractions, including the Jurassic Coast, kayaking in Studland Bay, and various cultural pursuits to enjoy such as The Pavilion Theatre and Bournemouth Pier – find out more about some of the top things to do in Bournemouth here.

With so much on offer, it is clear to see why Bournemouth is one of the most popular and exciting seaside towns to live in Dorset.

For a deeper look at life in the area be sure to check out our moving guide.

We have even listed some of the town’s best areas to live in – giving you a complete understanding of what living in Bournemouth could look like for you!

7.) Boscombe: Creative Seaside Living

Although Boscombe is a suburb of Bournemouth, it has a unique identity that makes it deserving of its own spot on this list.

Offering a lifestyle filled with seaside charm and strong community spirit, Boscombe combines the tranquillity of a coastal town with an artistic and vibrant atmosphere you can only find is a select few places.

The quieter Boscombe Beach is a serene alternative to the busier Bournemouth Beach and is perfect for locals looking for a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for water sports and other leisure activities.

Boscombe is also known for its creative spirit, with independent stores, cafes, and the Boscombe Market, where local artisans and entrepreneurs showcase their unique talents.

The O2 Academy regularly hosts live music and entertainment events, further adding to Boscombe’s creative vibe.

Property in Boscombe tends to be more affordable than in Bournemouth, making it an attractive option for buyers and with a wide variety of housing options, from Victorian-era properties to more modern homes, Boscombe is an ideal choice for those seeking both charm and value!

8.) Seatown: Peace and Natural Beauty

Seatown offers a peaceful lifestyle for those seeking a close connection to nature.

Situated on the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this small coastal village is surrounded by some of the most stunning landscapes in the UK, including rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and unspoiled beaches!

The beach at Seatown, mainly shingle, is far quieter than many of the other more tourist-heavy Dorset beaches – this makes it the perfect place for peaceful walks, fossil hunting, and enjoying the spectacular sea views.

Golden Cap, the highest cliff on England’s south coast, provides an exceptional backdrop for hiking and outdoor adventures, with breathtaking views from its summit.

With its small, close-knit community, Seatown fosters a real sense of belonging among its residents.

The slower pace of life here allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquillity of the area.

And despite its seclusion, Seatown is conveniently close to larger towns like Bridport and Lyme Regis, where additional amenities and services can be found.

9.) Fortuneswell: Nautical Heritage Meets Coastal Living

Fortuneswell offers a truly unique living experience, combining its nautical heritage with some of the most beautiful natural scenery along the Jurassic Coast.

The town’s steep alleyways and charming stone cottages add to its distinctive character, while its location on Portland’s slopes offers several spots with stunning sea views.

One of Fortuneswell’s most striking features is its proximity to Chesil Beach, an 18-mile-long pebble beach that stretches along the Jurassic Coast.

This remarkable natural feature provides residents with direct access to some of the UK’s most beautiful coastal scenery, perfect for birdwatching, fishing, or simply taking long, peaceful walks – you are sure to find something to enjoy here!

Despite its quiet atmosphere, Fortuneswell remains well-connected.

The nearby town of Weymouth, also on our list, offers more extensive shopping, dining, and entertainment options, meaning you can still access all the amenities you need.

With its combination of affordability and natural beauty, Fortuneswell is an increasingly popular choice for those seeking a peaceful yet well-connected seaside lifestyle.

10.) Mudeford: Coastal Charm and Convenience

Mudeford is a picturesque village that offers a perfect balance of coastal charm and modern convenience.

Renowned for its beautiful harbour, sandy beaches, and the tranquil Mudeford Quay, this village is a favourite for both families and retirees – meaning it is well worthy of a place on our list!

Mudeford Quay is the ideal spot for a relaxing stroll, where you can watch boats bobbing in the harbour or try your hand at crabbing, a popular local activity that you may enjoy.

Despite its peaceful setting, Mudeford is well-connected to the rest of Dorset.

Local buses serve the area well, while Christchurch railway station provides direct connections to Bournemouth, Southampton, and London.

This makes Mudeford an attractive choice for both local commuters and those looking for a seaside retreat with easy access to major cities.

The property market here is competitive, with a mix of fisherman’s huts, modern apartments, and family homes, many of which boast stunning sea or harbour views.

11.) Charmouth: Tranquil Coastal Village Living

Located just a few miles from Lyme Regis, Charmouth is a peaceful coastal village for those looking for a quieter alternative to its bustling neighbours.

Ideal for those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle, Charmouth is renowned for its fossil-rich shingle beach, which sits at the mouth of the River Char.

Charmouth’s transport links are excellent, with easy access to the A35, providing direct routes to larger towns like Dorchester and Exeter.

Additionally, the nearby town of Axminster has a train station offering regular services to London and Exeter, making Charmouth a viable option for commuters.

The village itself has plenty of local amenities, including shops, cafes and restaurants, making it a great place to settle.

Its proximity to Lyme Regis offers residents even more opportunities for dining, shopping, and cultural activities, ensuring you won’t be missing out!

12.) Lulworth Cove: Coastal Living in an Exclusive Area

Lulworth Cove is one of the most picturesque seaside towns in Dorset, famous for its iconic horseshoe-shaped cove and stunning natural scenery.

Living in Lulworth Cove is perfect for those who appreciate a peaceful environment, natural beauty, and a sense of exclusivity within a welcoming community.

The property market in Lulworth Cove is unique, with a range of homes available, from classic cottages to modern developments and even historic buildings.

Due to its breathtaking setting and the limited number of available properties, homes in Lulworth Cove tend to attract high prices.

Despite its remote feel, Lulworth Cove is very accessible and can get very busy during the summer months.

The nearest train stations are located in Wool and Wareham, providing easy access to larger cities both within Dorset and beyond.

The A352 road also connects the village with Dorchester and Wareham, making commuting straightforward for those who work outside of the area.

Moving to One of these Seaside Towns in Dorset?

We hope that this guide to 13 of the best seaside towns to live in Dorset has been helpful!

If you have decided to move to one of these top locations, R.H Pardy Moving and Storage Limited are here to help.

As a professional moving company with years of experience, we know that house moves require lots of planning.

Securing the assistance of a trustworthy and knowledgeable removals company when moving home is essential.

R.H Pardy Moving & Storage Limited can assist you with every aspect of your move to Dorset!

Our team of highly trained professionals will guide you through every step of your move.

For extra confidence, you will have the knowledge that your move is being managed by a member of the British Association of Removers.

For more information about our removals to Wimborne services, be sure to give us a call today at 01202499390, or fill out our quick and easy contact form here.

A member of the team will be happy to assist you and get your move to Dorset started in no time!