UK beach home to dolphins is minutes from one of the 'most beautiful' towns

Dorset remains a favourite destination for staycations, with this summer witnessing a 60% surge in Google searches for 'best beaches in Dorset.' This section of the Jurassic Coast boasts countless stunning beaches, yet one concealed treasure you might not know about is Monmouth Beach.

Located just a five to 10-minute stroll from Lyme Regis, this magnificent beach tends to be more peaceful than those closer to the town centre. Praising the beach's qualities, Gemma Matthews, owner ofDorset & Devon Holiday Cottages, says: "It's easy for people to overlook Monmouth Beach and head straight to the busier Lyme Regis beaches slightly further along the coast, especially as it is a pebble beach.

"However, holidaymakers shouldn't judge it based on its pebbles alone-the beach has so much to offer."

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Whilst Monmouth Beach might be less famous than its sandy counterparts, this also ensures it remains more tranquil, offering guests respite from the masses at alternative locations.

It's also an excellent option, regardless of your pastimes, with Gemma continuing: "If you're into history and adventure, a fossil hunt is a great way to spend the day at the beach. Monmouth is the perfect place to find small ammonites and plant fossils; some have even found evidence of other prehistoric creatures!"

"If you're lucky, you may even spot some impressive live creatures on your visit. Chippel Bay, the stretch of water just off its shore, is frequently visited by seals and dolphins, which are always a special sight.

"If you're looking for a more relaxing time, the beach is dog-friendly all year-round, perfect for walking your four-legged friend whilst taking in the stunning views of the Jurassic Coast, especially at sunset."

A mere 10 minutes' stroll from Monmouth Beach leads you to the vibrant town of Lyme Regis. The charming town earned recognition as one of Britain's 'most stunning' coastal destinations last year, according to international travel website Big 7 Travel.

The travel company teamed up with Holidaycars.com to discover the nation's most beloved seaside destination through their social media community of 371,000 followers.

Lyme Regis secured sixth position on the rankings, whilst New Quay in Ceredigion, Wales, claimed the coveted top spot.

Gemma certainly isn't alone in her admiration for Monmouth Beach, as holidaymakers have flocked to TripAdvisor to express their own opinions about the coastline.

One visitor penned: "I loved this beach-just a little bit of sand-enough for a paddle and fantastic for fossil hunting. It's not difficult to find them if you look carefully."

A second person commented: "A great beach for rock pooling and fossil hunting. There were lots of different types of crabs and small fish to see, as well as jellyfish in the shallow water (it was a very hot day, though).

"It's just a 10-minute walk to the sandy Lyme Regis beach, where all the fish and chip and ice cream shops are too, so a great place to visit as a family."

Another shared: "We had a fantastic morning exploring the beach and the ammonite pavement. Make sure you wear some good footwear and take a little care as it's very rocky but that's just nature!".

"We enjoyed a very good value cup of tea at the bowls club, The host there was very friendly and chatty proper old customer service. We then explored the town which is full of great shops and so many places to eat good food. Our only minor gripe is at the parking was a little bit expensive."