West Wittering is a picturesque seaside village on the West Sussex coast, best known for its award-winning sandy beach, unspoilt landscapes, and relaxed coastal charm. Located at the entrance to the Chichester Harbour Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and sheltered by the Isle of Wight and the South Downs, it enjoys a mild microclimate and calm waters, making it one of the most popular beach destinations in West Sussex.
The highlight of the area is West Wittering Beach, widely regarded as one of the finest beaches on the South Coast. With gently sloping, sugar-white sands, rolling dunes, and clear, shallow waters, it is ideal for families, sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The stretch of beach near the colourful beach huts and main car park is especially popular, though visitors can find quieter spots by walking east towards East Wittering, particularly at low tide.
West Wittering is a true watersports haven, attracting surfers, kitesurfers, windsurfers, and paddleboarders from across the UK. Whether you’re trying surfing for the first time or looking to build confidence in the water, The Beach Bracklesham Surf Club offers relaxed, high-quality surf experiences on the beautiful Sussex coast. They run small-group surf lessons, private coaching, and social surf sessions for adults and children — all focused on confidence, connection, and enjoying the ocean in a friendly, supportive environment. Their experienced coaches tailor each session to the conditions and the group, making it a brilliant option for complete beginners and returning surfers alike. Surf lessons and coaching include all equipment, so you can simply turn up, get suited up, and enjoy your time in the water. For those who already surf, they also offer social surf sessions — a great way to meet like-minded people and share waves.
Private Concierge Surf Experience
Exclusively for guests staying at Wellies & Windbreaks properties in Bracklesham Bay and the Witterings.
Enjoy a relaxed, private surf experience with The Beach Watersports, delivered directly to your stay. Their experienced instructors meet you at your nearest beach access point and bring all the equipment with them. Sessions are carefully timed around the best tide conditions to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for all abilities. For more information and details on how to take advantage of this experience, take a look at our blog or view Surf Sessions.
DISCOUNT FOR WELLIES & WINDBREAKS GUESTS
Enjoy 10% off all surf sessions and services when you quote WELLIES10 and let the team know which property you’re staying at.
At the western end of the beach lies East Head, a stunning National Trust nature reserve and one of the last remaining natural coastlines in the county. This protected area of sand dunes, salt marshes, and bird habitats is ideal for coastal walks, wildlife spotting, dog walking, and watching boats enter Chichester Harbour. It is also a favourite spot for families, offering plenty of space for exploration and play.
West Wittering Beach is well equipped for visitors, with seasonal lifeguard cover, a beachfront café serving hot and cold refreshments, and excellent facilities. The large beach car park operates on a pay-and-display system, with advance booking recommended during busy holiday periods via the West Wittering Estate website.
The beach is popular with dog walkers throughout the year, although seasonal restrictions apply between 1st May and 30th September, particularly in front of the beach huts. East Head remains dog friendly year-round and is easily accessed via the car park.
The village of West Wittering itself is set back from the shoreline and offers a charming selection of local amenities, including cafés, independent shops, and traditional pubs. Visitors can enjoy relaxed dining at The Lamb Inn and The Wittering, unwind at The Landing Café, or browse local favourites such as New Waves Box gift shop.
Whether you’re planning a family beach day, a watersports adventure, a scenic coastal walk, or a peaceful seaside escape, West Wittering in West Sussex offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activity, and traditional seaside charm.
