There are so many beaches in Bournemouth to choose from, but like any destination, some are definitely better than others especially when you’ve got a bunch of kids in tow.
I’ve lived in Bournemouth for over 20 years and have visited pretty much every beach along this stretch of coastline. Some have fantastic facilities for families, while others are a bit more wild and natural. If you’re planning a family beach day in Bournemouth, here are my top 5 favourite beaches and why they’re great for kids.
Hengistbury Head – The Adventure Beach
I absolutely love Hengistbury Head it’s probably my favourite beach in the Bournemouth area.
It’s a little harder to get to than the others, but that’s part of the adventure. You can park at the Hengistbury Head car park and walk, scoot, or cycle along the coastal path, or head up to the top of the hill where you’ll get fantastic views over Christchurch Harbour and the coastline.
In the summer months, kids love riding the Hengistbury Head Land Train, which runs regularly and makes the journey even more fun.
Another great way to reach the beach is by boat from Mudeford Quay, which is also a fantastic little spot for crabbing and a quick drink by the water. Alternatively, you can take a more leisurely cruise from Christchurch Quay.
Once you arrive, you’ve got Christchurch Harbour on one side and the open sea on the other, with views stretching all the way to the Isle of Wight.
If you visit later in the day it can actually be quite peaceful, as many families head home by around 4pm. Bring a picnic, let the kids roam free, and watch one of the best sunsets on the south coast.
Boscombe Beach – The Easy Family Beach
Boscombe Beach is one of the easiest Bournemouth beaches to visit with kids.
Boscombe itself isn’t the prettiest area, but the beach is fantastic and very family-friendly. One of the biggest advantages is how easy it is to park. You can drive and park within around 200 metres of the sand, or park along the promenade for the day. That makes life much easier if you’re carrying half the house with you beach toys, towels, snacks and everything else kids require!
It can get busy during the summer, but there’s loads to do:
• A volleyball net on the beach
• Rocks kids love climbing on
• The Boscombe Pier
• The land train running along the promenade
• Free yellow beach toy boxes where kids can borrow toys if you forgot yours
For food, you’ve got options like Urban Reef, which does great food and cocktails with a sea view.
Grab an ice cream, sit back, and enjoy the classic Bournemouth beach day.
Sandbanks Beach – One of the UK’s Best Beaches
Sandbanks Beach is often ranked among the best beaches in the UK, and it’s brilliant for families.
If you park in the main car park you’ll find a fantastic playground nearby, plus the stylish Rockwater Sandbanks café in a beautiful Art Deco pavilion.
The beach itself is stunning soft golden sand, clear water, and loads of space for kids to run around.
From here you can also wander along the famous Sandbanks peninsula, spotting some of the UK’s most expensive houses (and occasionally the odd celebrity).
If your kids are adventurous, cross the road and head to Watersports Academy, where they can try sailing, windsurfing or paddleboarding.
You can even take the ferry across to Brownsea Island, which is famous for its wildlife and rare red squirrels a brilliant nature adventure for kids.
Bournemouth Beach – The Classic Seaside Day Out
You can’t write a Bournemouth beaches guide without mentioning Bournemouth Beach.
Yes, it gets busy in the summer, but there is so much to do with kids here.
Start by walking through the beautiful Lower Gardens, then head down to the seafront where you’ll find the Bournemouth Pier.
Nearby you’ll also find:
• The Oceanarium Bournemouth
• The RockReef climbing centre
• The famous PierZip
When it’s time to eat, nothing beats classic seaside fish and chips from Harry Ramsden’s.
There’s also mini golf near the seafront, and the land train can take you along the promenade to Boscombe if you want to explore further.
Finally, Alum Chine Beach is one of the best family beaches near Westbourne.
It’s a fantastic option if you want a bit more space away from the crowds in the main Bournemouth beach area.
The highlight for kids is the pirate-themed playground, which is brilliant for burning off energy after a swim.
There’s also the lovely Vesuvio Italian restaurant right by the beach. Grab a pizza or cocktail while the kids play in the park perfect holiday vibes.
From the beach you get amazing views across the coast towards the Isle of Wight and the Purbeck Hills.
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