Bournemouth, a beautiful coastal town in southern England, is renowned for its stunning beaches that attract visitors throughout the year. From the soft golden sands to the crystal-clear waters, Bournemouth’s coastline offers some of the best of the best beach experiences in the UK. Whether you’re seeking a quiet spot for relaxation or a lively beach with plenty of activities, this destination for beach lovers has it all. With a variety of beaches stretching from Hengistbury Head to Sandbanks, each section of the beach has its own unique charm and appeal.
In this article, we’ll explore some of Bournemouth’s favorite beaches, highlighting what makes each one special and why they continue to draw visitors from far and wide.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Bournemouth 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Captain's Club Hotel
- ✨ 5-Star: The Balincourt
- 🏨 4-Star: Hampton by Hilton Bournemouth
- 🛏️ 3-Star: The Savoy Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: Amarillo Guesthouse
- 🏢 Apartment: Bub Lane Cottage
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: The Riviera Hotel & Holiday Apartments
- 🏩 For Couples: Langtry Manor Hotel
1. 🌞 Top 10 Beaches in Bournemouth
🌟 Bournemouth Beach – Best for Classic Seaside Experience
Bournemouth Beach is the epitome of a classic British seaside experience. Its golden sand stretches for miles, complemented by the iconic Bournemouth Pier. This Blue Flag beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. The promenade is ideal for morning walks or evening strolls. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy panoramic views from the pier, where on clear days, you can see as far as the Isle of Wight. With its vibrant atmosphere and array of nearby attractions, Bournemouth Beach is a must-visit for any beach lover.
Best Hotels Near Bournemouth Beach 🏨
- Balincourt Hotel – This Victorian villa is located just a 10-minute walk from Bournemouth Beach, one of the most popular beaches in the area. It offers elegant rooms and award-winning breakfasts. The hotel’s proximity to both the beach and town center makes it an ideal base for exploring Bournemouth throughout the year.
- Derby Manor – This boutique hotel is situated a short distance from Bournemouth Beach, offering luxurious accommodations and personalized service. It features individually designed rooms and a lounge bar. The hotel’s location provides easy access to the beach and Bournemouth’s vibrant nightlife.
- The Westby – Located close to Bournemouth Beach, this guest house offers comfortable rooms and a hearty breakfast. It’s within walking distance of the beach, which is known for its soft sand and beach huts. The guest house’s central location allows easy access to Bournemouth’s attractions and beaches.
🌊 Alum Chine Beach – Best for Families
Alum Chine Beach is a haven for families seeking a perfect beach day. This Blue Flag beach boasts soft sand and shallow waters, ideal for children. The beach features a pirate-themed playground, tropical gardens perfect for picnics, and beach huts available for hire. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season, ensuring a safe environment for all visitors. The beach’s family-friendly amenities and beautiful setting make it a top choice for those traveling with kids. Enjoy building sandcastles, splashing in the waves, or simply relaxing on this picturesque stretch of the Dorset coast.
Best Hotels Near Alum Chine Beach 🏨
- The Savoy Hotel – This historic hotel is situated near Alum Chine Beach, one of the quieter beaches in Bournemouth. It offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and beautiful gardens. The hotel’s location provides easy access to the beach and the picturesque Alum Chine Tropical Gardens.
- Hampton by Hilton Bournemouth – This modern hotel is located a short drive from Alum Chine Beach, offering contemporary rooms and a fitness center. It’s close to the beach office where guests can arrange beach hut hire. The hotel’s rooftop terrace provides stunning views of Bournemouth and the coast.
- Kingswood Hotel – Situated near Alum Chine Beach, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations and a restaurant serving local cuisine. The beach is known for its Blue Flag status and is patrolled by RNLI beach lifeguards. The hotel’s location allows guests to enjoy a day at the beach or explore Bournemouth’s attractions.
🏄♂️ Boscombe Beach – Best for Water Sports
Boscombe Beach is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, particularly surfers. Known for its excellent waves, this beautiful stretch of coastline attracts both beginners and experienced surfers. The beach features Boscombe Pier, which offers great views and fishing opportunities. Local surf schools provide lessons and equipment rentals for those looking to catch their first wave. Beyond surfing, visitors can enjoy volleyball courts, a children’s play area, and a variety of beachfront cafes. With its vibrant atmosphere and range of activities, Boscombe Beach offers an exciting beach experience for all.
Best Hotels Near Boscombe Beach 🏨
- Amarillo Guesthouse – This guesthouse is located close to Boscombe Beach, a great Blue Flag beach experience. It offers cozy rooms and a friendly atmosphere. The guesthouse’s proximity to the beach and Boscombe Pier makes it ideal for beach lovers and surfers.
- The Majestic Hotel – Situated near Boscombe Beach, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and sea views. Boscombe Beach is a popular choice for water sports enthusiasts. The hotel’s location allows easy access to the beach and Boscombe’s shops and restaurants.
- Langtry Manor Hotel – This historic hotel, built by Edward VII, is located a short distance from Boscombe Beach. It offers luxurious rooms and a restaurant serving gourmet cuisine. The hotel’s unique history and proximity to the beach provide a memorable stay in Bournemouth.
⛱️ Southbourne Beach – Best for Tranquility
Southbourne Beach is the perfect destination for those seeking a quieter beach experience. This peaceful stretch of golden sand offers a tranquil escape from the busier beaches in Bournemouth. The beach is known for its cleanliness and calm waters, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Beach huts line the promenade, adding a touch of classic British seaside charm. With fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere, Southbourne Beach is perfect for those looking to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Dorset coastline. Pack a picnic and spend a serene day by the sea at this hidden gem.
Best Hotels Near Southbourne Beach 🏨
- The Kings Christchurch – While not in Southbourne, this hotel in nearby Christchurch offers easy access to Southbourne Beach. It features comfortable rooms and a restaurant with river views. The hotel’s location allows guests to explore both Christchurch and the beautiful beaches of Southbourne.
- Grosvenor Lodge Guest House – This guest house is situated near Southbourne Beach, known for its peaceful atmosphere and colorful beach huts. It offers comfortable rooms and a hearty breakfast. The guest house’s location provides easy access to the beach and local amenities.
- Bub Lane Cottage – This charming cottage is located a short distance from Southbourne Beach, offering a home-away-from-home experience. It features a fully equipped kitchen and a garden. The cottage’s proximity to the beach allows guests to enjoy a relaxing seaside holiday.
🌴 Hengistbury Head Beach – Best for Nature and History
Hengistbury Head Beach offers a unique blend of sandy shores, rocky outcrops, and diverse wildlife habitats. This beach is perfect for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a more rugged coastal experience. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the beach, hike up to the headland for panoramic views, or explore the nearby nature reserve. The area is rich in history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. Keep an eye out for various bird species and unique plant life. With its natural beauty and educational value, Hengistbury Head Beach provides an enriching beach experience beyond just sun and sand.
Best Hotels Near Hengistbury Head Beach 🏨
- Avonmouth Hotel – Located in Mudeford, this hotel offers easy access to Hengistbury Head Beach. It features comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving fresh seafood. The hotel’s location allows guests to explore the beautiful Hengistbury Head nature reserve and its pebble beach.
- Captain's Club Hotel – Situated in Christchurch, this luxury hotel offers stunning views of the river and easy access to Hengistbury Head Beach. It features elegant suites and a spa. The hotel’s location provides a perfect base for exploring both Christchurch and the nearby beaches.
- Petite Anchorage – This cozy bed and breakfast is located in Mudeford, close to Hengistbury Head Beach. It offers comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast. The B&B’s location allows guests to enjoy the natural beauty of Hengistbury Head and its beach, which is popular for its stunning views and wildlife.
🏝️ Durley Chine Beach – Best for Scenic Beauty
Durley Chine Beach offers a picturesque setting with its golden sands and clear waters. Located west of Bournemouth Pier, this beach provides a slightly quieter alternative to the main beach while still being close to amenities. The gently sloping beach makes it safe for swimming and ideal for families. Beach huts add a splash of color to the landscape, creating perfect photo opportunities. Visitors can enjoy ice creams from nearby kiosks or take a stroll along the promenade. With its beautiful scenery and relaxed atmosphere, Durley Chine Beach is a delightful spot for a day by the sea.
Best Hotels Near Durley Chine Beach 🏨
- Park Central Hotel – This 4-star hotel offers stunning views of Bournemouth’s coastline and is just a short walk from Durley Chine Beach. It features elegant rooms, a restaurant with panoramic sea views, and a cocktail bar. The hotel’s central location makes it perfect for exploring Bournemouth’s attractions and enjoying the beautiful beach.
- Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott Hotel – Perched on the cliff top, this hotel offers breathtaking views of Bournemouth Bay and is a short stroll from Durley Chine Beach. It features an indoor and outdoor pool, a spa, and a fitness center. The hotel’s cliff-top location provides easy access to the beach and the town center.
- Boho Beach House – This stylish guesthouse is located just minutes from Durley Chine Beach, offering a unique bohemian experience. It features individually designed rooms, a garden, and a terrace. The guesthouse’s proximity to the beach and Bournemouth’s vibrant nightlife makes it ideal for those seeking a trendy coastal getaway.
🌺 Fisherman’s Walk Beach – Best for Local Charm
Fisherman’s Walk Beach is a cherished spot among locals, known for its pristine sands and peaceful ambiance. This Blue Flag beach offers excellent water quality and clean shores. The beach is accessible via a cliff lift, providing a unique and scenic way to reach the sand. A zigzag path also offers a pleasant walk down to the beach. The area features a putting green and tennis courts for those seeking additional activities. With its local charm and well-maintained facilities, Fisherman’s Walk Beach provides a quintessential British seaside experience away from the main tourist hubs.
Best Hotels Near Fisherman’s Walk Beach 🏨
- Hotel Riviera by the Sea – This charming hotel is situated near Fisherman’s Walk Beach, offering comfortable rooms with sea views. It features a restaurant serving locally sourced seafood and a terrace overlooking the bay. The hotel’s location provides easy access to the beach and the scenic cliff-top walks.
- Beach Lodge – This bed and breakfast is just a short walk from Fisherman’s Walk Beach, offering cozy rooms and a homely atmosphere. It features free WiFi and serves a delicious breakfast with homemade cakes. The B&B’s proximity to the beach and local amenities makes it perfect for a relaxing seaside break.
- Shoreline B&B – Located near Fisherman’s Walk Beach, this B&B offers comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere. It features a garden and serves a hearty breakfast to start your day. The B&B’s location allows easy access to the beach and the charming Southbourne Grove with its shops and cafes.
🌄 Branksome Chine Beach – Best for Sunset Views
Branksome Chine Beach is renowned for its stunning sunsets and expansive views of the coastline. This sandy beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. Visitors can enjoy a range of water sports, including kayaking and paddleboarding. The beach is backed by beautiful chines (wooded ravines), providing a unique landscape. Beach huts line the promenade, adding a touch of nostalgia. With its Blue Flag status, clean waters, and excellent facilities, Branksome Chine Beach is ideal for those seeking a well-rounded beach experience with a spectacular end-of-day show.
Best Hotels Near Branksome Chine Beach 🏨
- The Canford – This elegant hotel is set in beautiful grounds near Branksome Chine Beach. It features stylish rooms, a restaurant serving modern British cuisine, and a bar with a terrace. The hotel’s location offers easy access to both the beach and the attractions of Poole and Bournemouth.
- Inn in the Park – This charming inn is located near Branksome Chine Beach, offering comfortable rooms and a relaxed atmosphere. It features a restaurant serving pub classics and a beer garden. The inn’s proximity to the beach and Branksome Chine makes it perfect for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.
- Mount Lodge – This guesthouse is situated a short distance from Branksome Chine Beach, offering cozy rooms and a peaceful atmosphere. It features a garden and serves a continental breakfast. The guesthouse’s location provides easy access to the beach and the beautiful Branksome Chine woodland walk.
⭐ Sandbanks Beach – Best for Luxury Experience
Sandbanks Beach is often referred to as one of the best beaches in the UK, known for its golden sands and clear waters. This Blue Flag beach is situated on the exclusive Sandbanks peninsula, often called the “Palm Beach of the UK” due to its high property values. The beach offers excellent facilities, including volleyball courts, barbecue areas, and water sports equipment rentals. With its upscale surroundings and pristine shoreline, Sandbanks Beach provides a touch of luxury to your beach day. It’s perfect for those seeking a more refined coastal experience.
Best Hotels Near Sandbanks Beach 🏨
- Harbour Heights Hotel – This 4-star hotel offers stunning views of Poole Harbour and is just a short walk from Sandbanks Beach. It features stylish rooms, a restaurant with panoramic views, and a spa. The hotel’s location on the Sandbanks peninsula provides easy access to one of Britain’s best beaches.
- Grovefield Manor – This luxurious B&B is located near Sandbanks Beach, offering elegant rooms in a peaceful setting. It features beautifully landscaped gardens and serves a delicious breakfast. The B&B’s proximity to Sandbanks Beach and Poole Harbour makes it perfect for a relaxing coastal retreat.
- The Riviera Hotel & Holiday Apartments – This hotel offers a range of accommodations near Sandbanks Beach, from hotel rooms to self-catering apartments. It features an indoor pool, spa facilities, and a restaurant. The hotel’s location provides easy access to the beach and the attractions of both Bournemouth and Poole.
🌿 Mudeford Sandbank Beach – Best for Seclusion
Mudeford Sandbank Beach offers a unique and secluded beach experience. Accessible by ferry or a scenic walk, this beach feels like a hidden paradise. The long stretch of sand is lined with colorful beach huts, some of the most expensive in the UK. The beach provides excellent views of Christchurch Harbour on one side and the open sea on the other. It’s a great spot for swimming, windsurfing, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. With its remote feel and stunning natural beauty, Mudeford Sandbank Beach is perfect for those seeking an escape from the busier beaches in Bournemouth.
Best Hotels Near Mudeford Sandbank Beach 🏨
- Avonmouth Hotel – This family-run hotel is located in Mudeford, a short ferry ride from Mudeford Sandbank Beach. It offers comfortable rooms, some with sea views, and a restaurant serving fresh seafood. The hotel’s location provides easy access to the beach and Christchurch Harbour.
- Petite Anchorage – This charming B&B is situated in Mudeford, close to the ferry that takes you to Mudeford Sandbank Beach. It offers cozy rooms and a delicious breakfast. The B&B’s location allows guests to easily explore the beautiful Mudeford Quay and its surrounding beaches.
- Sandhills Guest House – This guesthouse is located in Mudeford, offering comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere. It’s a short walk from Avon Beach and a ferry ride away from Mudeford Sandbank Beach. The guesthouse’s location provides easy access to the beautiful beaches and nature reserves of the area.
2. 🏄♂️ Beach Activities and Water Sports
🏄♂️ Surfing and Paddleboarding: Bournemouth’s beaches are a playground for water sports enthusiasts. Boscombe Beach, a short drive east of downtown Bournemouth, offers perfect waves for both beginners and experienced surfers. Local surf schools provide lessons to get you riding waves quickly.
🏐 Beach Games and Fitness: Bournemouth’s beaches offer plenty of activities for those preferring dry land. Start your morning with a yoga session on the soft sand of Bournemouth Beach, accompanied by the soothing sound of waves. Beach volleyball courts at Boscombe Beach are perfect for group fun. Other popular activities include beach soccer, frisbee, and kite flying at Hengistbury Head Beach.
🚣♀️ Exploring the Coast: Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding offer relaxed ways to explore Bournemouth’s coastline. Paddle from Bournemouth Beach to Boscombe Pier for an unforgettable experience, gliding over clear waters with views of the seabed below. These activities allow you to discover secluded coves inaccessible by land.
🎣 Fishing and Pier Activities: Bournemouth Pier is not just a landmark but a hub of activity. Take a stroll to the pier’s end for panoramic coastal views. For thrill-seekers, try the PierZip, the world’s first pier-to-shore zipline. Fishing from the pier offers a peaceful afternoon activity with the chance to catch your dinner.
🏖️ Family-Friendly Beach Fun: Bournemouth’s beaches are ideal for family-friendly activities. Build sandcastles on the miles of golden sand, or explore rock pools at low tide. Many beaches, like Alum Chine, offer shallow waters perfect for young children to paddle safely. Look out for the colorful beach huts that line many of Bournemouth’s beaches – they’re great for family photoshoots.
3. ⏳ Best Times to Visit Bournemouth’s Beaches
🌞 Summer Sizzle Peak Season
From June to August, Bournemouth’s seven miles of award-winning beaches come alive. The promenade from Bournemouth Pier buzzes with activity, filled with the scent of sunscreen and seaside treats. Temperatures in the UK are at their peak, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Early mornings offer serene beauty before crowds arrive. It’s the ideal time to experience Bournemouth’s vibrant beach culture and enjoy water activities.
🍂 Autumn Charm (September to October)
Early autumn is arguably the best time to discover Bournemouth’s beautiful beaches. The weather remains mild, ideal for beach days without summer crowds. It’s perfect for exploring family-friendly beaches and enjoying the promenade peacefully. Autumn offers comfortable temperatures for beach walks and water activities, with better deals on beach hut hire. Surfing conditions are excellent, especially at Boscombe Beach.
🌷 Spring Awakening (April to May)
Spring in Bournemouth reveals the beaches in a new light. While too cool for sunbathing, it’s perfect for coastal exploration. Beaches from East Cliff to Hengistbury Head bloom with wildflowers, and migratory birds return. It’s an ideal time to visit popular spots like Bournemouth Beach and Pier without summer crowds. The Blue Flag beaches offer a tranquil experience, great for nature lovers and photographers.
❄️ Winter Wonders (November to March)
Winter transforms Bournemouth’s beaches into serene landscapes. Long walks on sand-and-shingle beaches offer dramatic views of winter waves. It’s perfect for exploring quieter beaches near Bournemouth without crowds. Enjoy warming fish and chips on the promenade or photograph colorful beach huts against moody skies. Winter reveals a different, equally captivating side of Bournemouth’s beach destination.
4. 🚉 How to Get to Bournemouth’s Beaches
🚗 Road Tripping to the South Coast of England: Driving to Bournemouth offers the freedom to discover hidden coves and secluded beaches. It’s an excellent way to explore the best beaches in Dorset at your own pace. Bournemouth is easily accessible by car from London and other major cities. Remember to arrive early during peak season to secure parking.
🚂 Train Travel to Bournemouth: Taking the train to Bournemouth Central is a convenient option, offering beautiful views of the English countryside. The station is a short walk from the beach, making it easy to start your beach day quickly. From the station, you can walk along the promenade to reach popular spots like Bournemouth Beach and Boscombe Beach, or take local buses to more distant beaches.
🚌 Local Buses: Local buses provide an affordable way to reach many of Bournemouth’s top beaches. The network connects most coastal areas, allowing you to travel like a local. It’s perfect for reaching gems like Middle Chine Beach and quieter beaches near Bournemouth. Day passes offer great value if you plan to visit multiple beaches.
👣 Beach Hopping on Foot: Exploring Bournemouth’s beaches on foot is a delightful experience. The promenade stretches for miles, connecting many of the area’s best beaches. Start at Bournemouth Pier and walk east along the promenade, passing East Cliff beaches, continuing to Boscombe Beach, and ending at Hengistbury Head for stunning views.
🚩 Beach Safety and Information: Before visiting any of Bournemouth’s beaches, check the RNLI beach lifeguards’ information for safety updates. The South Coast of England offers a variety of beach experiences, from sandy beaches with shallow waters perfect for families to shingle beaches ideal for a quiet day out. Bournemouth’s beaches are known for their cleanliness and many hold Blue Flag status.
5. 🚾 Beach Facilities and Amenities
🚽 Comfort and Convenience: Bournemouth’s beaches are well-equipped with facilities for a comfortable day out. Visitors can expect clean toilets, showers, changing rooms, first aid points, and lost child wristbands from RNLI lifeguards. Many beaches have apps or websites for real-time information on facilities and crowd levels, helping you plan your beach day efficiently.
👮 Safety First: Safety is a top priority at Bournemouth’s beaches, with professional RNLI beach lifeguards on duty at popular spots during summer months. These trained professionals ensure visitor safety and offer valuable information about local conditions. Locating the lifeguard station upon arrival is recommended for both safety and advice on the best swimming or surfing spots.
🏠 Beach Huts A Quintessential British Experience: Colorful beach huts lining the promenade are a charming feature of Bournemouth’s beaches. These iconic structures offer a unique way to experience beach life like a local. Hiring a beach hut provides a perfect base for your day, offering shelter and storage. While daily rates can be pricey, weekly rentals often offer better value for longer stays.
🌞 Year-Round Beach Destination: Bournemouth offers a variety of beach experiences suitable for visits throughout the year. From quiet, secluded spots to lively popular beaches like Boscombe, there’s something for every preference. The combination of excellent facilities, safety measures, and charming beach huts makes Bournemouth a favorite among beach lovers in all seasons.
FAQs about Trip to Best Beaches in Bournemouth ❔
Why is Bournemouth so popular?
Bournemouth is popular due to its award-winning beaches, 7 miles of sandy coastline, diverse entertainment options, outdoor activities, and cultural events like the Arts by the Sea festival.
Can you swim in Bournemouth beaches?
Yes, you can swim at Bournemouth beaches. Many beaches have designated safe swimming zones marked by red and yellow flags, and are patrolled by RNLI lifeguards during peak seasons.
Is the water clear in Bournemouth?
The water in Bournemouth is described as nice and clear, though not completely transparent. It’s considered one of the nicer UK beaches in terms of water clarity, especially after periods of fair weather.
Is Bournemouth water safe?
Yes, Bournemouth’s water is safe. The beaches have won awards for water quality and sustainability. The drinking water is treated and checked at every stage to ensure it’s clean, clear, safe, and great tasting.
