Littlehampton West Beach to Elmer

The Walk: Starting from the car park at Littlehampton West Beach, the walk goes along the shore to Elmer and back.

Map

NB The map shows my GPS track, with various diversions and excursions which you may not wish to follow precisely.

Why do it: Comings and goings at Littlehampton Harbour Entrance (aka mouth of the River Arun). Dune-backed West Beach. Hamlet of Climping. Striking coastal erosion. 'Rock Islands' sea defences at Elmer.

River Arun

Distance: 3 miles out and 3 miles back = 6 miles total

Logistics: Park in the West Beach car park at the mouth of the River Arun (charge). Do the walk as a round trip. Alternatively, you could combine it with the Pagham to Elmer walk to do a one-way from Pagham or Bognor to West Beach, and come back by bus(es).

Challenges:

It's nice to vary the route by using the beach where possible. The beach is pebbles, and the walk will be best at low tide to make the most of the firmer sand exposed below the high water mark. It's generally possible to revert to the official path, but note there is severe coastal erosion around Climping, so expect diversions or closures of the official path hereabouts, and be prepared to scramble over broken concrete defences.

Refreshments: Seasonal cafe in the West Beach car park. Cafe in Climping beach car park (check web, opening times weather dependent). Pub at Elmer.

Nearby Walks

To the West: Pagham to Elmer

To The East: Littlehampton East Beach to Worthing

Photos

December, Cloudy out to Elmer with high tide, brightening on the way back with falling tide.