You can tell that West Sussex locals are proud of the white sand beaches, safe swimming areas and rich wildlife that surround the two little villages of East and West Wittering, which they refer to as ‘God’s Pocket.’ But they’re not the only ones.

Located between Brighton and Portsmouth, this sunny peninsula – which has its own micro climate – has seen increasing numbers of city slickers come here for a break from urban life, known affectionately as the ‘Wittering Classes’. This area has everything we love about the English seaside: that wonderful carnival atmosphere, the pretty rose and honeysuckle-festooned cottages, sweeping seascapes peppered with multi-coloured sailing boats, fudge shops, tea rooms and atmospheric pubs. And, thanks largely to the abundance of bird and animal life in the Witterings, much of it is now a protected Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Offering wonderful views of Chichester Harbour and the South Downs beyond, the natural and unspoilt sandy beach of West Wittering has been a favourite destination for a family day out for generations. The highest water quality and excellent facilities have made it one of the premier Blue Flag beaches in the country.

The extensive acres of neatly mown grass close to the beach are perfect for parking, and picnics. The sea is popular with wind and kite surfers, while shallow lagoons are left on extensive sandy flats at low tide. The whole area is internationally recognised for its wildlife, birds and unique beauty.

Easy walking or cycling distance from Sea Campion!

The village of East Wittering and the whole stretch of Bracklesham Bay is popular with many surfers.With a low beach gradient and the lack of any obvious dangers such as rips or obstacles it is a great beach for learners and with one of the UK's longest running surf clubs, Shore Surf Club. There's also a big surf school 2XS at West Wittering.

Billy’s on the Beach is a fun bustling seaside cafe serving all those beachsidey goodies including a great selection of breakfasts & brunches. If you are after fish & chips & a pot of tea, calamari with a glass of wine, a slab of carrot cake & a good cappuccino, ice cream sundaes & milk shakes, toasties with a local Arundel ale, moules frites & local cider, seafood platters & Prosecco, they have it all at reasonable prices.

Right on the beach, a 10 minute stroll from Sea Campion (or a leisurely cycle), the cafe has great views of the Isle of Wight, and the kids can forage on the beach while you relax and watch the sunset with a Billy’s on the Beach cocktail.

National Trust East Head

Shifting sand dunes, salt marsh and flowing tides.

One of the last surviving pieces of natural coastline in West Sussex, East Head is an example of the nationally rare and fragile, yet dynamic, sand-dune habitat.

Walk, play and sunbathe on the beach, which is considered one of the best in Sussex. Or just admire the yachts that anchor off the northern end, where you may spot the occasional seal.

Explore East Head's distinct habitats - shingle, sandy beach and dunes that graduate into salt-marsh. Maritime plants, such as the tough-leaved sea holly and sea bindweed, grow through the sand. In summer, they’re at their vibrant, colourful best. Look too for the distinctive marram grass, which needs the cover of the shifting sands to be able to grow.