Due to recent multiple cliff falls, it is currently inadvisable to walk beneath the cliffs, even at low tide. East Cliff Beach consists of a very fine shingle ridged beach with sand at the water's edge. East Beach has RNLI Lifeguard cover from July to September, during the school summer holidays, but the cover is not considered to extend to East Cliff Beach. Keep away from the cliff base to avoid being hit by falling stones and rocks.

The main Long Stay car park for West Bay exists to the left of the mini roundabout as you enter the village. Further Long Stay car parks are located behind East Beach at the next left turn and also Station Yard. Two small Short Stay car parks exist just before entering the harbour area, in front of the Bridport Arms Hotel and Quayside. Motorhome vehicles are only permitted to use the Station Yard Car Park.

Public toilets are located at the main West Bay Road car park to the left of the mini roundabout when entering the town. Public toilets are also available behind the shingle ridge of east beach by the old methadist chapel, next to the Bridport Arms. Baby changing facilities are provided. There are also disabled toilets.

Dogs are permitted on East Cliff Beach at all times, but must be kept under reasonable control and not become a nuisance to other beach users. Access for owners is at the pathway next to the foot of East Cliff only. Owners must remove any faeces from the beach caused by their dogs. The beaches and whole of West Bay operates a clean zone, regularly patrolled by wardens. Dog owners who do not clean up can face fines of up to £1,000. Bins are provided. Note that the main East and West Beaches operate access restrictions for dog owners.