From Saunas to Seafood: the West Sussex Beach Scene you need to join

Summer on the South Coast is something to behold but a little advance planning is required, especially when the day trippers descend!

White & Brooks is a fan of the local beach scene, so we’ve listed out favourite ice cream stops, promenade cafés, beachside activities and chilled bars where you can watch the sun go down.

Save our list for the next time the sun shines in and around Bognor Regis!

Saunas on the beach

The wellbeing movement has taken a coastal twist, with wood-fired saunas popping up on the pebbles. Our personal favourites include Rewild Sauna at Bracklesham Bay, East Wittering, and Luna Hut on The Promenade in Bognor Regis. The heat will relax your body as you look out across the beach, with the sea a few steps away if you need an instant refresh.

Sea swimming

If you want to go full Wim Hof and take the cold water plunge, book in with Sandy Toed Sea Swimmers. It offers sea swimming lessons along the West Sussex Coast so you can enjoy the cold, open water with confidence. Sessions run at Pagham, West Bognor, Bognor East, Felpham and Elmer.

Beachside yoga

Less chilly but just as restorative is beach yoga at Bracklesham Bay, offered by Stay Zen Yoga. Early birds can head to Bognor Regis in front of the bandstand, where Sound Waves & Wellbeing runs regular yin yoga sessions starting at 6am. Both venues provide an inspiring backdrop for those gently moving from downward dog to warrior two.

Cafés with sea views

Dog friendly and right on the sand, The Beach Café at West Wittering is a must visit and is open all year round. Just around the coastline is Pagham Beach Café, where the fresh cod and chips is a winner.

The Beach Company has cornered the market when it comes to casual-luxe shoreline dining. Its beachside shack in Bognor Regis is the perfect pit stop on a dog walk or you can order a gourmet burger to go. The Beach Company’s Bracklesham branch is a more ‘stay and relax’ affair, described as an après seafront kitchen, bar and restaurant. There’s live music and even a watersports centre where you can try your hand at surfing or paddleboarding.

Sundowner cocktails

Blakes Bar & Beach Terrace in Felpham, Bognor Regis, is where you can sip something cool while the sun sets over the water. The terrace is right by the promenade and if you book ahead, you can request to sit in one of the private domes. Felpham is something of a social hub as The Lobster Pot also draws the crowds. Whether you choose a coffee or a craft beer, everything will taste better sitting at a beachside table.

The Waverley in Bognor Regis also delivers beachside vibes and as an added bonus, much of the outside area is covered, so you won’t get wet if the British weather takes a turn.

Catch of the day

Shellfish lovers should head to Selsey where you’ll likely see a queue for Potters Fish. This small catering trailer on the beach has a big reputation for crab, lobster and prawns. Buy a sample box and settle on the shingle to devour.

If you’re looking for a dine-in option, we’re going to sneak in 47 Mussel Row in nearby Littlehampton. Reserve a window table and you’ll get a waterside view to go with classics, such as skate wing and mackerel pâté. There’s also more modern shellfish options like tempura prawns and Singapore crab.

Ice cream

No visit to a British beach is complete without an ice cream. Pinks Parlour in Bognor Regis is highly recommended (and you may even spot one of the White & Brooks estate agents in there between viewings!). Classic flavours mingle with unusual combinations (coconut and white choc ripple anyone?), with dairy-free options and even gelato-making workshops in store.

If a move to the West Sussex coast is on the cards for you, get in touch. Our estate agents in our Bognor Regis and Chichester branches are marketing waterside homes across the county.