24 Hours in Sandbanks

The spectacular Sandbanks Peninsula forms part of Poole Harbour, Europe’s largest natural harbour. Second only in the world to Sydney, Poole’s harbour and bay are the coast with the most and home to more watersports than any other UK resort.

Three miles of golden sand including Britain’s best beach Sandbanks, winner of more Blue Flags than any other UK resort. Sandbanks beach plays host to events throughout the year.

Must stay:

4* FJB Harbour Heights Hotel has the best views of Sandbanks peninsula and  Europe’s largest natural harbour. Drink it all in with dinner on the terrace at the 2* Harbar Restaurant. With 38 bedrooms the boutique hotel is one of three dotted along this stunning piece of coast. Guests also have access to the Harmony Spa at the art deco Haven Hotel positioned on the tip of the peninsula or a drink on the terrace of the Sandbanks Hotel, the only UK hotel positioned on a Blue Flag beach and its own watersports academy.

Must eat:

Rick Stein Sandbanks offers superb dining with uninterrupted views of Poole Harbour. Located a stones throw from the beach, combine a shoreline walk with the perfect spot to unwind over the freshest seafood.

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Must sea/get wet:

Home to more watersports than any other UK resort, the safe shallow waters of Poole Harbour make it the perfect place to learn.  From stand up paddle boarding or canoeing to the thrill of power boating. Alternatively watch over 100 water based events events that take place in Poole Harbour and Bay each year.

Must chill:

Sit back and relax whilst enjoying the view from The Saltwater Sauna across Sandbanks beach. Wellness is at the forefront of our minds now more than ever and the serene sea view sauna provides the perfect zen environment to focus on this. They recommend taking a break and going for a sea dip or shower halfway through to enjoy the benefits of the hot/cold exposure.

Must visit:

Take a harbour cruise from Sandbanks or Poole Quay to the National Trust’s Brownsea Island for idyllic wooded walks to spot red squirrels and Sika deer.  A bird spotters paradise it’s also the home of the Scouting movement and where Lord Baden Powell held his first Scout camp in 1907.

Visit our Explore Sandbanks page for further ideas and inspiration and find out more about the stunning, world-class beach here.

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