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We want you to have the best experience when visiting our beautiful beaches on the south coast so we have created an interactive map and mobile application which allows you to see how busy they are before you pick your perfect spot in the sun.
Take a look at our Beach Check page for more information.
We’ve retained the international Blue Flag award status since it was first introduced in 1996 and as of 2022 Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch have secured 12 Blue Flag awards for Sandbanks, Shore Road, Canford Cliffs, Branksome Chine, Alum Chine, Durley Chine, Fisherman’s Walk, Southbourne, Manor Steps, Avon Beach, Friars Cliff and Highcliffe.
We have also secured a total of 14 Seaside Awards for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. Fantastic awards like this recognise the highest standards for water quality, environmental management, safety and services and environmental education.
Naturally beautiful, with its golden sand, Sandbanks Beach is an award winning Blue Flag beach achieving the highest standard of cleanliness. Sandbanks has held the highly coveted international Blue Flag for 35 years, making it one of the best beaches in the world. Slacklining posts have been installed and equipment is available to hire from the beach office. Activities at Sandbanks include crazy golf, children's play area and Sandbanks Beach Cafe. You can find great inspiration on all that Sandbanks has to offer with our 24-Hour in Sandbanks Itinerary.
Fine golden sands, gradual sloping beach and clean, safe water makes Shore Road Beach an ideal place to visit. Watersports hire and tuition is available nearby and there is a dedicated 'launch' zone for kitesurfers and windsurfers.
Advice for adults and children on sunscreen and sun safety in the UK and abroad can be found via the NHS website.
Canford Cliffs is a natural and tranquil area featuring volleyball nets and football posts. Situated between Shore Road and Branksome Chine the beach can be accessed from Cliff Drive, where you can find on-road parking. The steep sandy cliff face provides a haven for wildlife. The picturesque wooden beach huts along the chine date back to 1920.
Which include Branksome Chine and Branksome Dene beaches. There are a range of places to buy food and drink and rock groynes create individual bays to enjoy.
Alternatively, visit one of our harbour beaches at Hamworthy Park or Rockley Park.
Dorset is full of award-winning beaches. Find out more information about Dorset Beaches and Bournemouth Beaches.
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