Paddle through time at Lulworth Cove

“Enjoy views of the historic Jurassic coast on a paddle board”

The rugged cliffs along the Jurassic Coast in Dorset are a spectacular sight, and I soon discovered that taking to the sea on a paddle board is a fantastic way to view it at your own pace.

I knew about this ancient stretch of coastline for a while, brochure worthy shots of Durdle Door on Instagram sold it to me.

Water Sports at Lulworth Cove

Stopping in Portland on a cruise this summer was an ideal opportunity to visit Lulworth Cove, just over half an hour from Weymouth. I contacted Lulworth Activities and spoke to Ryan, who was very friendly and accommodating for my last-minute plan. Ryan was able to provide me with a paddle board that very afternoon - the kayaks, my first choice, weren’t available for a couple of hours, no surprise as it was a beautiful summer's day and sea conditions were perfect.

I’ve experienced kayaking in the past so Ryan suggested taking a shorter kayak paddle and sitting on the board which I thought was a desirable alternative.

Taking to the waters

As I stepped into the cool clear waters, I noticed the abundance of plant life on the seabed. I pushed the board away from the pebble beach, sat in the middle and began to paddle towards the middle of the cove near a bunch of sail boats.

I initially thought - this is easier than I anticipated, and the board felt very stable, helped of course by the calm conditions. Even though I sat down for the duration, I think I could stand up and paddle confidently next time.

Sea views of The Jurassic Coast

The coastal landscape is dramatic, and seeing it from the water provides you with the opportunity to get some distance to take it all in. Some people climbed or walked across the cliffs which are quite precarious in some parts with exposed edges.

I paddled to the exit of the cove where the sea opened to reveal miles of coastline and the distant horizon straight ahead. I turned right towards Durdle Door but didn’t stray too far from the cove, paddling west along the coast looking at the cliffs rise and fall. If you’ve got more experience, you can ask about doing the whole round trip to Durdle Door.

I’m glad I pushed myself to do it, Lulworth Cove and the Jurassic Coast proved to be an excellent spot for water sports - snorkeling and a 20-minute boat trip around to Durdle Door are other things I noticed people doing here, plus there’s a couple of places to eat and drink by the beach too.

Walking The Jurassic Coast

I noticed several coastal paths near Lulworth Cove, some parts require an abundance of caution as I mentioned earlier with incredibly steep edges and no fence or barrier, but they do provide you with another perspective of the interesting geology and coves that have been carved into the landscape by the sea.

If you haven’t experienced paddle boarding or kayaking before then I’d suggest booking a guided tour or lesson, there’s a few options in Weymouth which you can book in advance.

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