The stretch of beach between Littlehampton and Ancton is one of the few places left on the Sussex coast where pretty much everything is "unspoiled". Perhaps because of this, the seclusion offered by the protected area of sand dunes at the Littlehampton end has led that section to be popular amongst naturists and other persuasions - something to be borne in mind if you have young children, maybe? The sudden vertical appearance of such enthusiasts in the dunes has led to various local references to "human meerkats". There has been handy "seasonal" cafe at the large car-park at what used to be the coastal village of Atherington. The mixed fortunes of weather over the past years has led to several transient encumbents of this facility ... whether it will be open in 2014 remains to be seen. The area is also popular with dog-owners - to the point where there are two large, grass car parks. One is dog-free - good if you want a worry-free picnic. Just a little way inland is the luxurious hotel and spa at Bailiffscourt. Sadly, the nearby ancient country pub - "The Black Horse" is presently closed - the next nearest pub is the Oyster Catcher at Climping - normally good, but part of a chain, with all the anonymity that this brings. The beach and car parks can become very crowded in summer, which rather detracts from the wildness of the place - but it offers a few miles of seaside walking - shingle at high tide, but sand at low tide.

On first sight Climping Beach is just a long stretch of pebbles that are difficult to walk on. But wait till the tide is halfway out and it becomes walkers paradise and great for Dogs as well. The view of the bay is really quite special, nothing happening, but that is a virtue. Sometimes too many people at weekends but still worth it. If you get your timing right, park up at Climping Beach, remember you have to pay in season and walk to the left on the sea front near the receding water. Wellies or waterproof boots area good idea. When you get to the end you will be at Littlehampton West Beach. If the Cafe is open you can get good food or drinks including Alcohol, even a bag of chips!. Then you will be fit enough to walk back to Climping, but watch the tides as walking on the pebbles is a pain in the bum and also kills the calf muscles. There is enough time between tides to do this walk on the packed sand next to the water. Happy walking and if you wrap up well it is great in bad conditions the sea is phenominal.