Selsey is a unique seaside town, sitting proudly at the southernmost tip of West Sussex, just eight miles south of Chichester and stretching out into the Solent. Surrounded by sea on almost every side, it enjoys more sunshine than anywhere else in the UK. Selsey is a little seaside town with a big personality.
With its rich fishing heritage, beautiful wildlife, and laid-back coastal charm, Selsey is the perfect place for a relaxed day out, a weekend escape, or even a longer stay by the sea.
Selsey is famous far and wide for its seafood – especially its legendary Selsey crab. Fishing is still very much part of everyday life here, and it’s one of the last places on the South Coast where you can watch boats bringing in the day’s catch. There’s something really special about seeing the boats bobbing in the water while knowing tonight’s dinner may have been caught just hours earlier.
A visit isn’t complete without stopping by Julie’s Hut or Potter’s Fish on the beach. Here, you can buy fresh crab, lobster, prawns, and more – often straight from the boat. It doesn’t get much fresher than that! If you’re after something specific, it’s worth giving them a quick call – the teams are always happy to help.
Selsey is surrounded by miles of beautiful coastline, with beaches to suit every mood. Whether you want to roll out a towel and soak up the sunshine, explore wild shores in winter, or go beachcombing at low tide, there’s always something to enjoy.
From the beach, you can see across to Bognor Regis and the distinctive crest of the South Downs stretching into the distance. Along the coastal path, you’ll find benches built into the sea wall – perfect for pausing to admire the view. Apart from the occasional fisherman or dog walker, the beaches are wonderfully quiet and unspoilt, with interesting wildflowers and coastal plants.
Keep your eyes open and you might spot seals, seabirds, or even dolphins offshore. The nearby RSPB reserves at Pagham Harbour and Medmerry offer stunning walking and cycling routes through wide-open landscapes filled with wildlife and spectacular views – especially at sunset. They’re a dream for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Selsey’s Seal Art Trail is a fun and creative way to explore the town. Each decorated seal features a QR code so you can learn more about its theme and Selsey’s history.
The trail was launched in 2021 by Dr Brian May (yes – the guitarist from Queen!), who unveiled the Sir Patrick Moore & Dark Skies Seal, complete with its working telescope. Sir Patrick made Selsey’s dark skies famous through the BBC’s Sky at Night, filmed at his home here.
Selsey has a proud maritime history, and the RNLI Lifeboat Station on Kingsway has been serving the community since 1861. Many local fishermen volunteer here, and visitors are welcome to learn more about the vital work they do.
Selsey High Street is always buzzing with independent shops, pubs, and eateries. You’ll find great places for breakfast, coffee, and relaxed meals, as well as traditional butchers and bakers offering fantastic local produce.
From artisan coffee spots to welcoming pubs and seaside restaurants, Selsey is a brilliant place to slow down, eat well, and enjoy the moment.
One date to mark in your diary is Selsey’s annual Lifeboat Week, usually held in the first week of August. This fun-packed week includes activities, entertainment, and fireworks, all in aid of the RNLI.
The final Sunday, Lifeboat Launch Day, is especially popular with families. Expect paddleboard races, fancy dress raft races, performances by the Selsey Shantymen, and exciting rescue demonstrations by Selsey Lifeboats, the Coast Guard, and visiting crews.
It’s a brilliant way to experience Selsey’s strong community spirit.
Whether you’re:
• Sampling world-famous seafood
• Walking quiet, unspoilt beaches
• Exploring nature reserves
• Watching fishing boats return to shore
• Spotting seals and seabirds
• Stargazing under dark skies
• Or enjoying great food and friendly pubs
…Selsey offers a genuine, welcoming seaside experience that’s hard to beat. It’s a place where traditions are still alive, nature is never far away, and visitors quickly feel at home.
So why not come and see for yourself? Pack your walking shoes, bring your appetite, and discover why Selsey is one of West Sussex’s best-kept coastal secrets. 🌊
Looking for a short break or staycation with family, friends, your partner, or even your four-legged friend? Why not take a look at our lovely holiday homes in and around Selsey?
At Wellies & Windbreaks, we offer a fantastic range of cosy cottages and beachfront homes in Selsey, as well as beautiful properties nearby in Bracklesham, Wittering, and Itchenor. Whether you’re dreaming of sea views, countryside walks, or a peaceful coastal escape, we have something to suit everyone.
Take a look below at some of our most popular places to stay in the area and start planning your perfect getaway…
Iveshead is a unique, magical railway carriage holiday home right on the Selsey seafront. Sleeping seven in five train compartment bedrooms, it is a wonderful place to step back in time while enjoying all the comforts of modern living.
Seacote is a fabulous sea-fronted holiday home in Selsey, ideal for a family coastal holiday. Sleeping up to seven guests in three bedrooms it is perfectly suited to two families with young children or one larger family.
Seaspray is something really special. Completely refurbished to an exceptionally high standard Seaspray is located literally on the beach front in the heart of the small fishing village of Selsey, It is a place to truly relax and unwind whilst enjoying a coastal break.