Beaches & Coves in Dorset

Discover the plethora of things to see and do at Boscombe Beach, whether that's a walk along its iconic pier, or enjoying its wide range of amenities. With there always being something to do, it's perfect for a day out.

Discover Southbourne Beach with our practical guide to parking, beach access, toilets, seasonal dog restrictions and lifeguard patrols. Whether we’re planning a family afternoon beside the sea, a promenade walk or a visit combined with Southbourne’s independent shops, a little preparation makes the day easier. Find named car parks, useful access information and official links to check current facilities, swimming guidance and cycling restrictions before setting off.

Explore Hengistbury Head with our practical guide to coastal walks, wildlife, beaches and visiting information. Discover where to park, what to expect at the visitor centre, where to find toilets and how the seasonal land train connects with Mudeford Sandbank. With different walking options, dog guidance and a clear explanation of the difference between Mudeford Sandbank and Mudeford Quay, we can plan anything from a short visit to a leisurely half-day outdoors.

Discover more about Hengistbury Head Beach, a natural, preserved pebble and sand beach perfect for getting away from the crowds.

Discover the many beautiful beaches that Southbourne offers along the coastline of Dorset, England. Whether you prefer sunbathing, watersports, or just a walk along the promenade, there's something on these beaches for you.

Find details of the many beautiful beaches and coves that Christchurch has to offer along the coastline of Dorset, England. From the ancient headland of Hengistbury Head to the picturesque sandbanks at Mudeford Beach, the coastline offers many stunning views at each of the beaches in Christchurch.

Find out more about the popular Mudeford Beach, well-known for its quaint, vibrant beach huts and nearby harbour. Complete with a ferry to the harbour and a lovely café, this white, sandy beach is bursting with character and is definitely worth exploring.

Highcliffe Beach is a wonderful stretch of shingle and sand, boardered by grassy dunes, cliffs, and greenery. A favourite of swimmers, surfers and body boarders, it offers spectacular, panoramic views of the ocean and distant Isle of Wight. Paired with cafes and refreshments dotted along it, and its proximity to Highcliffe Castle, it's a lovely spot for a day out.

Durley Chine Beach in Bournemouth offers a perfect escape on the stunning Westbourne coastline. Its golden sands and crystal-clear waters have earned it the Blue Flag-award, whilst its beachfront cafes, water sports, and scenic coastal walks are sure to add flavour to any seaside visit.

Nestled at the most western point of Westbourne's picturesque coast, Branksome Dene Beach offers a charming escape from the everyday hustle and bustle. With its pretty sands, blissful calm waters and lush, surrounding greenery, it makes for the perfect coastal backdrop to any day out.

Alum Chine Beach showcases all the qualities that make Dorset's coastline so beautiful: pristine sands, lapping turquoise waves and charming beach huts. Its Blue Flag status speaks to its safe and clean shores, whilst its vibrant promenade and lush, subtropical gardens ensure there is something for everyone.

Discover Avon Beach, a beautiful sandy beach in Mudeford, Christchurch, just a short journey from Southbourne. Overlooking Christchurch Bay, this popular family-friendly destination offers swimming, watersports, colourful beach huts and convenient seaside refreshments. With accessible beach-level parking, public toilets, seasonal RNLI lifeguards and scenic walks towards Mudeford Quay and Friars Cliff, Avon Beach is an excellent choice for a relaxing day beside the sea.