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Britain's best beach - Sandbanks, more blue flags than any other UK beach. 3 miles of golden sands, clean clear waters, waterside restaurants and bars and fun for all the family.
"It was hard to believe such a paradise existed in England" Mail on Sunday
"All of a sudden Poole is being tagged the new cool... the Florida Keys of British beach resorts" The Guardian
Record breaking beaches - Poole has held highly coveted International Blue Flags for the past 21 years. This indicates the beaches have consistently met high standards of management and cleanliness.
Clean and clear - Crystal waters lap the shores of six golden sandy beaches
Safe for all - zones for swimmers and boarders with lifeguard patrols and 'baywatch' towers to ensure a safe, fun, relaxing time.
Chill out - fabulous beachside restaurants and cafes with stunning views. The perfect place to sit back and watch the world go by.
Home of the British Beach Polo Championships - Sandbanks will again host this exhilarating event from 10th - 11th July 2009.
In peak season it is ensured that sands are sifted, cleaned and raked on a regular basis, in addition litter is cleared throughout the day. Specific dog-free zones and activity areas for boarders and swimmers are part of our commitment to you, to provide a relaxing, fun and safe time for all ages.
Sandbanks Beach 
has held the additional distinction of having been awarded a 100% rating by ENCAMS. Naturally beautiful, with more than three miles of golden sand, the Sandbanks Beach area is designated by the EC as one of the few areas in the country, which has achieved the highest standard of cleanliness.
Canford Cliffs Beach is a natural and tranquil area of our beaches situated between Shore Road and Branksome Chine. The steep sandy cliff face provides a haven for wildlife. Facilities consist of First Aid, Toilets, Refreshment Kiosk and public telephone. Canford Cliffs Village offers some local shops and can be accessed via the Chine (approx 800 yds).
Branksome Chine Beach has fine, golden sand and a gradual sloping clean beach. Safe waters make Branksome Chine an ideal beach to visit with or without children.
Hamworthy Park Beach is located on the northern shore of Poole Harbour and offers an oasis of peace and tranquillity from the busy town centre. It provides the setting for outstanding panoramic views over the middle and upper reaches of the harbour towards the Purbeck Hills in the distance.
Lake Drive Beach is a sand and shingle inner harbour beach and the area also includes Hamworthy Common now a local nature reserve and Special Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Shore Road Beach offers fine, golden sand with great views from Sands Brasserie at the Sandbanks Hotel.
RNLI Beach Lifeguards are in operation on the beaches from 1st May to 30th September.
- Dogs are banned from the main beaches during this time. Deckchair, windbreak and parasol hire is available at Sandbanks and Branksome Chine only, click here for more information on Beach Services.
- A weekly parking permit is available for £30 which allows parking in the Beach Car Parks. A weekly beach car park permit can be applied for by downloading an application form from the Borough of Poole's website.
- Cycling along the beach promenade from Shore Road to Branksome Dene Chine (to the Bournemouth border) is unrestricted from September until June. In July and August cycling is only permitted before 10am and after 6.00pm. We ask that all cyclists act responsibly, not exceeding 10mph and remember that pedestrians have the right of way along the promenade. Cyclist will be prosecuted if they do not adhere to these byelaws.
- Beach Huts - Short term beach hut hire on Poole's beaches are the perfect way to enjoy some of the UK's best beaches. Daily, weekly and winter hire's are available. How to book a hut and many other beach services available online can be found at Borough of Poole's beach hut information page.
- Barbecues - An allocated barbecue area is available at Sandbanks. Permission is required for barbecues with 12 or more people. Further information.
The RNLI's Top Ten Tips for a safe summer at the seaside
- Always swim at a lifeguarded beach
- Swim between the red and yellow flags
- Never swim alone
- Know your beach safety flags (download the PDF on this page)
- Never use inflatables in strong winds or rough seas
- If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help
- If you see someone else in trouble, tell a lifeguard. If you cant see a lifeguard dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard
- Find out about the beach you are going to before you visit
- Check tide times before you go
- Read and obey local hazard signs
Summer Breeze on the Beach - The South's Biggest Beach Party
Every Thursday in August from 7pm at Shore Road Beach
- Lively continental atmosphere
- Beach sports and family fun
- Live music and BBQ's
- Spectacular fireworks finale
