The UK is known for its many beaches, from those in popular tourist attractions to forgotten coastal villages. Sandbanks Beach is one of the most popular of them, and for good reason! It is, in fact, one of the best beaches in England that should be on everyone’s must-visit list.
Sandbanks Beach is located in Poole, the second-largest town in Dorset, on the south coast of England. It boasts a beautiful coastline, and stunning sunsets and offers hundreds of activities to keep the whole family busy.
Also known as the British Palm Beach, Sandbanks Beach has a reputation for being a ‘millionaires playground.’
Local guide, Rob Barron had this to say, “Being part of the famous luxury playground of the Sandbanks peninsular that forms part of the entrance to Poole Harbour, this is a very special place to come when on holiday and despite being a ‘millionaires playground’ prices in the local shops and eateries are not excessively high.”
The Award-Winning Beach in Poole, Dorset
Sandbanks Beach is a recipient of the Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice Award for Most Sustainable Beach in the World. It also first received Blue Flag status in 1987 for meeting the strict environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria set for beaches, marinas, and sustainable tourism boats, and it has retained the award for 31 years in a row.
This is despite the many visitors that the beach welcomes every year. The rankings page shared that “It’s a popular beach, but even during peak season, there’s plenty of space.”
It also offers all the best amenities: Free entry, free access to toilets, lifeguards on the beach, shower facilities, and charming seaview cafes selling drinks, food, snacks and ice creams. It also has beach wheelchairs available and is stroller-accessible so everyone can enjoy the clean beach with its soft, golden sand and crystal-clear water.
Things to do in Sandbanks Beach
Sandbanks Beach features miles of sandy beach stretching from Sandbanks through to Bournemouth and beyond. And the water? The local guide tells us that “The water quality is excellent as the seabed shelves slowly away, it is a safe beach and has water that warms up more quickly than in neighbouring Bournemouth.”
With these excellent conditions, it is no surprise that Sandbanks is so well-loved. Visitors to the beach can let down their hair with perhaps the widest variety of activities, from group watersports to solo hikes around the area.
Pet-friendly Fun
You can go horseback riding on the beach or enjoy the volleyball net and other facilities. The best part? You can bring your dog! There are some seasonal restrictions on visiting with dogs (not allowed from 1 May to 30 September). But, there is a designated all-year-round dog-friendly beach area at the western end of Sandbanks promenade. Plus, pet-friendly eateries such as the Sandbanks Beach Cafe welcome dogs on their sea view terrace.
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Water sports
Sandbank Beach is a paradise for watersports enthusiasts. The harbour features calm, shallow water close to the shore which is ideal for a variety of water sports for every taste and skill level. Beginners can take advantage of lessons offered by local instructors, in everything from windsurfing and kitesurfing to paddleboarding and kayaking. But if you’d prefer a peaceful swim, that’s fine too. The water at Sandbanks Beach is the best for an invigorating morning swim in the summer.
Walks and hikes
A morning hike while visiting Sandbanks Beach is a fantastic way to explore the coastline. You can enjoy a leisurely walk while enjoying a beautiful view of Brownsea Island on the other side of the Harbour. You can also take a walk from Sandbanks along the promenade towards Bournemouth or to the beautiful Isle of Purbeck. Take a seat at the cliff-top walk of Branksome Chine to enjoy the views along the sweeping coastline.
Sailing
Sandbank is also a hub for sailing. Boat rentals and lessons are often available, making it easy for visitors to try out a new experience. You can hire a boat to explore the islands surrounding Poole, even ones you can self-drive. Or, take a cruise around the eastern edge of the Jurassic Coast, ending at the Victorian seaside town of Swanage.
You can then take a break for some shopping and a meal before boarding the steam train bound for Corfe or Norden, both stations boasting complimentary museums.
Other Activities for Kids and Families
One thing that can’t be overlooked is that Sandbanks Beach is incredibly kid-friendly, offering plenty of activities for children. Kids can let loose in the dedicated play area, perfect for burning off energy after a day in the water. Parents can relax, knowing there’s ample space for little ones to run, climb, and explore safely.
Another great option for fun is the Sandbanks Mini Golf which is available at just £7.50 per ticket or £21.00 for family groups.
Best Times to visit Sandbanks Beach, Poole (Dorset)
Sandbanks Beach is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what kind of experience you’re after. For sunny beach days and watersports, visit during the summer months. The warm weather is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beach’s many watersports.
If you’re after a quieter experience, a visit in Spring allows you to enjoy walks along the shoreline, sailing, or a quiet paddleboarding session. While we would advise you to avoid the water in the cold winter weather, it is still a perfect time to stroll and enjoy the raw beauty of the beach without the distraction of the usual large crowds.
