Sand Bay

A dune-backed bay north of Weston

Sand Bay lies about two miles north of Weston-super-Mare, beside the village of Kewstoke. Worlebury Hill closes it at the south end, and Sand Point and Middle Hope close it at the north. The upper beach was raised in the 1980s with sand pumped from the Bristol Channel to guard against flooding, and dunes stand above it. It is quieter than the main seafront, which is described on the Weston-super-Mare Beach page.

Dogs and horses

North Somerset Council lists Sand Bay as a beach where dogs are allowed at any time, unlike central Weston, where there is a summer ban on one stretch. Horses are allowed on the beach at any time but not on the dunes. Rules are set by council orders and can change, so read the council’s animals on the beach page before you travel.

Mud, tides and swimming

North Somerset Council says the area has the second highest tidal range in the world, and the tide can come in very fast. Its water safety page warns of soft sand and sinking mud, and says not to walk out towards the sea when the tide is out. It also states there is no lifeguard service on any beach in North Somerset. If someone gets stuck, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Parking and facilities

The council’s Beach Road car park has 34 spaces, 3 of them disabled bays, and a 2.1m height barrier, which rules out taller vans and motorhomes. Charges apply from 8am to 6pm every day. The council lists public toilets at the bus terminus on Beach Road. First West of England runs its open-top Explore Weston and Sand Bay buses between the Grand Pier and the bay, with a reduced service in autumn and winter, so check First’s page for the current pattern. Check locally for cafes and food before you rely on them.

Beyond the north end

Sand Point and Middle Hope are National Trust land at the northern end of the bay, with coastal walking. For shops and the Grand Pier after your walk, head back into Weston-super-Mare.