Water Sports in Lyme Regis: Kayaking, Paddleboarding & More
Lyme Regis, with its stunning Jurassic Coast backdrop, crystal-clear waters, and sheltered bays, is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Whether you're an experienced paddler or a complete beginner, the town offers an array of exciting activities, from serene paddleboarding sessions to exhilarating kayaking adventures. In this guide, we’ll explore the best water sports Lyme Regis has to offer, where to go, and how to get started.
Why Lyme Regis is Perfect for Water Sports
Located on Dorset’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Jurassic Coast, Lyme Regis benefits from calm, shallow waters, making it ideal for beginner-friendly activities. The town’s proximity to hidden coves, fascinating geology, and diverse marine life adds to its charm, offering both relaxation and adventure.
Top Water Sports to Try in Lyme Regis
1. Kayaking
Kayaking is one of the most popular ways to explore Lyme Regis’s breathtaking coastline. Glide through calm waters and get up close to fascinating rock formations while enjoying views of the famous Cobb Harbour.
Best Spots for Kayaking:
Monmouth Beach to Pinhay Bay: A scenic route offering dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches.
Lyme Regis to Charmouth: Perfect for spotting fossils and enjoying the stunning coastline.
Cobb Harbour: A great sheltered area for beginners to practice before heading out further.
Where to Hire Kayaks:
Lyme Kayak Hire – Offers single and tandem kayak rentals, with safety briefings included.
Jurassic Watersports – Provides guided tours and rental services for those keen to explore with expert supervision.
2. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Stand-up paddleboarding has become a favourite among visitors to Lyme Regis, thanks to the town’s calm, sheltered bay, making it an ideal place to try this relaxing yet engaging sport.
Best Spots for Paddleboarding:
Front Beach: Sheltered waters and gentle waves make it a perfect learning spot.
Church Cliff Beach: For those with a bit more experience, this area offers stunning views and occasional wildlife sightings.
Charmouth Bay: A great route for exploring at a slower pace, with plenty of marine life beneath the surface.
Where to Hire Paddleboards:
SUP Lyme Regis – Offers hourly and full-day rentals, as well as beginner lessons.
Jurassic SUP & Fitness – Specialises in SUP fitness sessions and guided paddleboard tours.
3. Wild Swimming
For those who love the freedom of open water, wild swimming in Lyme Regis is an unforgettable experience. The clear, relatively warm waters in summer make it an inviting spot for a dip.
Best Wild Swimming Locations:
The Cobb to Monmouth Beach: A favourite for strong swimmers looking for a coastal challenge.
Church Cliff Beach: A quieter, scenic swimming spot away from the crowds.
Charmouth Beach: A fantastic place for a longer, more adventurous swim.
Top Tips for Wild Swimming:
Always check tide times and conditions before swimming.
Wear a brightly coloured swim cap for visibility.
Swim with a buddy for safety.
4. Coasteering
If you're looking for an adrenaline rush, coasteering is the ultimate adventure sport. This exhilarating activity involves scrambling over rocks, cliff jumping, and swimming through sea caves along the rugged coastline.
Best Coasteering Providers:
Jurassic Watersports – Provides guided coasteering experiences tailored to different skill levels.
Adventure South – Runs coasteering sessions with experienced instructors along the Jurassic Coast.
5. Snorkelling & Scuba Diving
The waters around Lyme Regis are teeming with marine life, making snorkelling and scuba diving fantastic options for those eager to explore beneath the surface.
Best Spots for Snorkelling & Diving:
Black Ven: Home to fascinating underwater rock formations and sea creatures.
West Bay: A great spot for seeing colourful marine life up close.
Local Diving Schools & Equipment Hire:
Lyme Bay Diving – Offers guided dives and PADI courses for all experience levels.
Essential Tips for Water Sports in Lyme Regis
Check the Weather & Tide Times: Conditions can change rapidly, so always check forecasts before heading out.
Wear the Right Gear: A wetsuit is recommended for cooler months, and a buoyancy aid is essential for safety.
Book in Advance: During peak season, kayak and paddleboard rentals fill up quickly.
Respect the Environment: Lyme Regis is a protected coastal area, so avoid disturbing marine life and take all rubbish with you.
Where to Stay After Your Adventure
After an exciting day on the water, there’s no better place to unwind than Stay at No. 12. Our boutique holiday cottage in Lyme Regis offers a cozy retreat just moments from the beach, allowing you to relax in comfort after your water sports adventure. With a stylish interior, private courtyard, and all the amenities needed for a rejuvenating stay, it’s the perfect base for exploring the Jurassic Coast.
Further Reading
For more inspiration on making the most of your visit to Lyme Regis, check out these related articles:
"Best Coastal Walks Near Lyme Regis this Spring" – Explore scenic trails to complement your water sports experience.
"Wildlife Spotting in Dorset: What to Look for in Spring" – Discover the incredible marine and coastal wildlife in the area.
"Why Lyme Regis is Perfect for a Spring Break Getaway" – Plan the ultimate seasonal escape.
"How to Plan a Fossil Hunting Trip in Lyme Regis" – Pair your water adventure with a fossil hunting expedition.
"Fresh, Seasonal Flavours: Where to Eat in Lyme Regis this Spring" – The best places to dine after a day on the water.
Final Thoughts
Lyme Regis offers some of the best water sports experiences on the Jurassic Coast, from relaxing paddleboarding sessions to thrilling coasteering adventures. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-timer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in these beautiful coastal waters. Ready to start your adventure? Book your stay at Stay at No. 12 and make Lyme Regis your base for an unforgettable water sports getaway.
