Things to do in South Coast

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A beach with white cliffs and a sunset.
A historic stone castle with a wooden bridge leading to its entrance.
A historical castle with ruins on a grassy hill, a pathway leading up to it, and a clear sky.
A street with white and beige buildings, a black iron fence, and hanging flower baskets.
A coastal landscape with cliffs, turquoise waters, and a small building on a hill.

South Coast Attractions

Explore the best sights in South Coast with some unique tours & day trips, or get through our list of {13 fun activities in South Coast fun activities in South Coast}. We have no booking fees and free cancellation, so you can rest easy and put your energy into planning the perfect vacation.

Things to do

SEA LIFE Weymouth

SEA LIFE Weymouth

$23
per adult
SEA LIFE Weymouth
Half-Day Guided E-Bike Tour Portland with Brunch

Guided E-Bike Tour of the Isle of Portland, Dorset

$176
per adult
Guided E-Bike Tour of the Isle of Portland, Dorset
Pauls Walking Tour - Sundays at 10:00am - or Group

Pauls Walking Tours - Sundays at 10:00am

$13
per adult
Pauls Walking Tours - Sundays at 10:00am
Portland Jurassic Coast Guided Mini Bus Excursions

JURASSIC COAST ADVENTURE - Guided Mini Bus Excursion-Small Groups

$158
per adult
JURASSIC COAST ADVENTURE - Guided Mini Bus Excursion-Small Groups
Nordic Walking Tour of Weymouths Iconic Landmarks

Nordic Walking Tour of Weymouth’s Iconic Landmarks

$14
per adult
Nordic Walking Tour of Weymouth’s Iconic Landmarks
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South Coast must see attractions

1. New Forest National Park

Discover New Forest National Park, a green oasis on the shores of southern England featuring natural wonders, centuries of history and abundant wildlife. Spanning 220 square miles (570 square kilometers) across Hampshire and Wiltshire counties, it beckons nature lovers, history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
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A serene forest with a calm river reflecting the trees.

2. Poole Harbour

Poole Harbour is a large natural bay with several small islands in the southern part of the city. It has an intriguing history, with its shores having been inhabited for thousands of years. A boat from the Iron Age was discovered here. Watch the lifting of Poole Bridge, built in 1927 and spanning the waterway between the harbor and Holes Bay.
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A ferry docked at a pier with other boats.

3. Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach is a popular seaside escape that buzzes with activity during the summer. Go for a stroll along the promenade, ride fairground attractions on a Victorian pier and revel in the lively atmosphere of the beach’s busy cafés, restaurants and clubs.
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A gazebo with ornate green and white railings, a domed roof, and a sign reading "BAYVIEW".

4. Bournemouth Beach

Bournemouth Beach is one of England’s most popular and attractive sandy areas. For decades, locals and travelers have been relaxing under umbrellas against the roar of the English Channel’s waves. Discover the varying parts of the beach during your vacation, from the more active central bays to the spacious havens a little farther out from the city.
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A row of beach huts along a seaside promenade with a cyclist in the distance.

5. Durdle Door

Durdle Door is a natural arch carved into the limestone cliffs on the Jurassic Coast of England. The geological feature is the unquestionable highlight of the Lulworth Estate, which is open to the public and consists of 12,000 acres (4,856 hectares) of picturesque terrain. Go for a romantic stroll along the stony beach and take photographs of this stunning geological feature.
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A coastal landscape with a natural rock arch formation, a sandy beach, and a clear view of the sea.

6. Portsmouth International Port

Portsmouth International Port is a gateway to the rest of Europe, as well as the nearby Channel Islands. Considered Britain’s best-connected port, it operates ferries, cruises and cargo ships. Access it easily just north of Portsmouth’s center. Start here for a great opportunity to visit the historical seaside town of Portsmouth.
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A modern building with a sign reading "Portsmouth International Port".

7. White Cliffs of Dover

The dramatic and distinctive White Cliffs of Dover are a symbol of national pride for the English. Wander atop the immense white chalk cliffs to experience this historic and beautiful area at your own pace.
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A coastal area with a pebbly beach, green algae-covered rocks, and cliffs with houses in the background.

What to do in South Coast

Free Things to Do in South Coast

Traveling to South Coast on a budget? The following can be experienced for nada.

Bishop's Palace Gardens - Loads of fun awaits at this fantastic place.

Chichester Market Cross - Feel like you've gone back in time while ambling around this historic site.

Sparkes Marina - Find out why both visitors and locals are in love with the unique vibe of this place.

Bosham Church - Take a moment for some meditation or prayer at this sacred site.

West Wittering Beach - Skim rocks across the water, catch a sunset or just revel in the views from the shore.

Bishop's Palace Gardens - No matter if you can tell your lilies from lilacs, you're sure to find beauty in this stunning display.

Things to Do in South Coast with Kids

South Coast is a wonderful place for a family getaway. Take the little ones along and enjoy these family friendly experiences together:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in South Coast? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular South Coast attractions

A ferry docked at a pier with other boats.

Poole Harbour

8.8/10 (772 reviews)
Visit a forested part of this harbor’s archipelago after strolling along the charming promenade full of restaurants, pubs and boutiques.
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Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from South Coast

A historical castle with ruins on a grassy hill, a pathway leading up to it, and a clear sky.

Bournemouth

A large stone castle with multiple towers and battlements.

Southampton

A church with a tall steeple and a stone wall surrounding the graveyard.

Alfriston

A coastal beach with a pier extending into the sea, a lighthouse, and a clear blue sky.

Ferndown

A large castle with multiple towers and a moat.

Herstmonceux

A forested path with dense trees and ferns.
Photo by Rob Young (Creative Commons Attribution 2.0)

Lyndhurst

An aerial view of a coastal area with a marina, beach, and row of houses along the shore.

Mudeford

A coastal beach with a row of blue beach huts along the shore, a rocky breakwater, and a clear blue sky.

New Milton

Frequently asked questions

What to do in South Coast on a sunny day?
What to do in South Coast on a rainy day?
There's no need to splish, splosh and splash your way through a damp day when there are loads of fantastic indoor activities to try:


What should I not miss in South Coast?
If you're eager to discover the best of this destination, add these sights to your itinerary:

  • Brighton Beach
  • Gunwharf Quays
  • Dover Castle
  • Brighton Pier

Are there cheap things to do in South Coast?
Keep more of your hard-earned dollars in your pocket with these thrifty and fun experiences:


What can you do in South Coast for free?
Your time away in South Coast doesn't have to cost a fortune with free attractions like these to keep you busy:

  • Brighton Beach
  • Gunwharf Quays
  • Brighton Pier
  • Eastbourne Pier

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