Preston Beach

The area surrounding Preston Beach features a variety of comfortable accommodations suitable for all types of travelers. Premier Inn Weymouth Seafront hotel is a popular choice, offering contemporary en suite rooms, free parking, and an on-site bar/restaurant. Just a short walk from the beach, this hotel is praised for its comfortable beds, friendly staff, and proximity to local attractions like Lodmoor Country Park and the town center. Nearby options include Best Western Hotel Rembrandt, which offers cozy rooms, an indoor pool, and a restaurant, and The Royal Oak, a casual pub with simple rooms and a terrace. For a more intimate stay, The Redcliff Bed and Breakfast and The Seaham Bed and Breakfast Weymouth both receive high marks for hospitality and breakfast quality. These options ensure a range of experiences, from budget-friendly to boutique, all within easy reach of the beach.

Preston Beach is well-equipped for a day out, featuring public restrooms, outdoor showers, and picnic tables for convenience. Rental equipment, including loungers, umbrellas, and beach mats, is often available during the summer months, enhancing comfort for visitors. The beach’s proximity to the adjacent Lodmoor Country Park means additional amenities such as walking trails, playgrounds, and green spaces are easily accessible. Food and snack vendors can often be found along the promenade, offering refreshments for all preferences.

A wide variety of activities make Preston Beach a dynamic destination for all ages. Swimming is popular thanks to the gentle waves and lifeguard presence during peak seasons. Families enjoy building sandcastles, playing volleyball, and exploring the nearby park trails. Water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing are also available, with rental shops and instructors located nearby. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, beachcombing, birdwatching in Lodmoor Country Park, and leisurely strolls along the promenade are favorite pastimes. The beach’s central location also positions it as a starting point for coastal hikes and cycling adventures along Dorset’s scenic routes.

Accessibility is a priority at Preston Beach, with amenities designed to accommodate all visitors. Accessible parking spaces and ramps provide easy access to the promenade and beach, while public buildings and restrooms are equipped for wheelchair use. Visitors with disabilities can enjoy picnic tables with ample space and considerate placement. User reviews, however, note that while some facilities are accessible, the distance from the car park to the beach—particularly along the boardwalk—may present challenges for those with limited mobility. Beach wheelchairs and mobility aids may be available upon request, ensuring everyone can experience the beauty and recreation Preston Beach has to offer.

Preston Beach benefits from ample parking options, including free and paid parking areas close to the sand. A designated car park adjacent to the beach provides convenient access for visitors, including those with mobility needs, and is complemented by street parking in the surrounding area. Reviewers note that while the main car park is a short walk to the beach, those with disabilities should ensure they have a valid permit to access spaces nearest to the sand. During peak summer months, parking can fill up quickly, so early arrival is recommended. The accessibility of parking, combined with the beach’s layout, helps ensure a stress-free visit for all guests.

Preston Beach is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Jurassic Coast, famed for its dramatic cliffs and fossil-rich beaches. The area’s geological significance means fossil hunting is a popular activity, with beachcombers often uncovering relics from the prehistoric past. The beach has also played a role in local maritime history, once serving as a launching point for small fishing boats. Today, it is cherished for its diverse marine life and as a haven for seabirds, including rare species that frequent the nearby nature reserves. Weymouth’s long-standing tradition as a seaside holiday destination dates back to the Georgian era, adding a layer of cultural heritage to the area’s natural beauty.

Beyond the beach itself, the area boasts a wealth of nearby attractions. Lodmoor Country Park is a short stroll away, offering lush greenery, walking trails, and a nature reserve with abundant wildlife. The historic Weymouth town center, with its Georgian architecture, independent shops, and vibrant harbor, is within easy reach and perfect for a day of exploration. Families enjoy the nearby RSPB Lodmoor Reserve, Sandworld sculpture park, and pirate-themed mini-golf, while history buffs appreciate the proximity to the Jurassic Coast and its world-famous geological sites. Scenic coastal walks, historic lighthouses, and boat tours further enrich the visitor experience.