Frequently Asked Questions
When is the beach car park open?
The beach is open all year round, opening times in summer (BST) are 06.30 - 20.30 and in winter (GMT) the hours are 07.00 - 18.00. In summer, drivers may normally choose their parking place from 20 acres of mown grass, this area is closed in winter. Please park considerately by not parking in the fire breaks and by not blocking any other vehicles. Remember not to leave your valuables in your vehicle and please do not leave dogs unattended in your vehicle.
How much is parking?
Parking charges vary depending on the season. West Wittering Beach offers two parking sessions; all day and evening. We do not offer an hourly rate.
Please note, as of the end of March 2024, parking charges will be changing - click here to learn more
Do I need to book?
To avoid disappointment, we recommend pre-booking as spaces are limited. On SOLD OUT days, parking must be pre-booked, you will not be able to pay for parking at the entrance.
Do you offer a season ticket?
Due to high demand, we do not currently offer season tickets.
What is East Head?
East Head is the sand dune spit situated at the eastern side of the entrance to Chichester Harbour and is owned and managed by the National Trust.
Visit the East Head information page for further information.
Where are the toilets and showers?
There are three blocks of toilets, each of which has an accessible toilet (RADAR keys available from the cafe, lifeguard base, office and kiosks during opening hours). There are also two cold outdoor beach showers. Several taps providing drinking water are located along the side of the road.
When is the Estate Office open?
The estate office is open daily 09:00 - 16:00. If you have any questions, please come by the office and we will try our best to provide an answer. Information leaflets about the beach and the surrounding area are available.
Do you have lifeguards?
Lifeguards are on duty in the bathing season (mid May to mid September) from 10am to 5pm daily. If there is an emergency or if you require first aid during those times, report to the lifeguard base or alert a member of staff who will contact them for you. Our staff are specially trained to deal with various situations. We recommend you swim between the red and yellow flags as this marks the area that the lifeguards patrol. Dangerous currents and sand bars occur at “The Hinge” so swimming is prevented here.
Visit our Beach Safety page for more information.
Are dogs allowed on the beach?
From the 1st May to mid-September dogs are excluded from the Blue Flag bathing zone between groynes numbered 14a to 18, which corresponds to the area in front of the beach huts (if in doubt, look for signs at the entrances to the beach) - they are welcome elsewhere. From mid-September to April dogs are welcome everywhere.
Am I allowed to barbecue?
Due to health & safety and environmental reasons, disposable BBQs are NOT PERMITTED anywhere on site. This includes the beach, car park, fields, and on East Head.
If you wish to cook - please use a portable, reusable domestic BBQ or stove. Please be considerate to others and dispose of any waste responsibly.
Can I camp overnight?
Camping and overnight stops are not permitted on the beach, the car park or East Head. There are many campsites located within the village for your use.
Can I play music?
Whilst the playing of music is permitted, we politely ask that you consider other beach users around you, and keep the volume at an appropriate, low level.