The south coast region of the UK coastline must rank equally with the southwest as the top destination for coastal visits in the Country. The key to the areas popularity is the great variety of coastline, seaside resorts and habitats that the region has to offer. From the rural tranquillity of the Purbeck hills to the hustle and bustle of the great ports of Southampton and Portsmouth and the cool sophistication of Brighton. The region has a great deal to offer the visitor. The pages below will enable you to explore this wonderful area and find a ideal location for a holiday or a great day out. 

For the purposes of this guide we regard the Southern Region as consisting of the counties of Dorset, Hampshire and West Sussex plus Jersey and Guernsey. The Guide starts in the west at Weymouth and travels eastwards along the coast past Southampton and the Isle of Wight to finish at the twin towns of Brighton and Hove. The south coast region offers the visitor a wide selection of seaside resorts with excellent facilities, accommodation and entertainments. Most of the resorts are easily accessible and offer a warm welcome to visitors. To look for south coast seaside resorts, hotels, guest houses and cottages - see the resort pages.

Transport

The roads into the region are generally good with good road links within and to the area. From the north and east the M3 is the easiest route. While from the west the A35 via Dorchester provides the best access. The routes from the north are not so obvious but the best bet is probably The A350 via Blandford Forum. There are numerous ferries that run within the region from Poole, Southampton and Portsmouth. These offer services to the Isle of Wight, France and Spain. There are international airports at Bournemouth and Southampton.

Details of south coast guest houses, hotels and cottages maybe found in the resort section.