Elmer Sands Beach

Elmer Sands is a quieter, scenic stretch of the West Sussex coast, popular with locals and those wanting a more relaxed beach experience. At high tide, the steep pebble bank and wooden groynes are prominent. When the tide falls, broad expanses of compact sand appear, great for paddling, beach games, or rock pooling.

You have some fascinating rock islands that form part of the local sea defence. At low tide, you can explore these islands: you may find shells, shrimps, and small crabs. However, be cautious, as the rocks can be slippery and watch the tide.

Elmer, along with its immediate neighbour Middleton-on-Sea, is an excellent family beach for all ages, great for beach games and rock pools. When the water is very shallow at low tide, it creates ideal conditions for swimming and beginner water sports, as you can stand up.

Elmer Sands Beach is a dog-friendly beach all year round. If you get bored of just sitting on the beach at mid to low tide, you have a nice easterly walk away from the built-up area towards Climping Beach or westerly towards Felpham, where you have the excellent Lobster Pot for a food stop.

Because of private gated estates along parts of the beachfront, access is more limited. While this can make getting to the beach a little more challenging in busy periods, it also means fewer crowds and a more peaceful atmosphere even on warm summer days.

The beach has no facilities, with the closest amenities being some shops and pubs located on the main road just behind the beach. There is a free car park in Middleton-on-Sea village – the postcode for this is PO22 7SR.

Behind the beach, you have the Elmer Sands Estate, which has a Boating and Angling Club with an outside shower, and the estate has a grass playing field with a basketball hoop and a small children’s play area. These are all solely for the use of Elmer Sands residents and guests.