Bournemouth Beach
Bournemouth Beach
4.5
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
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Top ways to experience Bournemouth Beach and nearby attractions
The area
Best nearby
Restaurants
797 within 3 miles
Attractions
138 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- JDWBexley, United Kingdom110 contributionsMiles of Beautiful Sandy BeachesUnspoilt beaches that stretch for miles and miles. Clean, well maintained. Clear signposts, maps and places of interest. Excellent toilet facilities at frequent points between Boscombe Beach right through to Sandbanks. Lovely to see the Cliff Lifts working. Definitely recommend all the beaches along this coastline.Visited August 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 2, 2023
- Ali0818London, United Kingdom353 contributionsWindy funEven on a windy day in October we had a good time walking barefoot in the sand and paddling. Even enjoyed an ice cream. Wind was blowing sand across the beach but not up. It was easier coming back towards the pier with the wind behind us!Visited October 2023Traveled with familyWritten October 16, 2023
- Slop_Hunter44Bournemouth, United Kingdom4 contributionsBournemouth Beach <3Bournemouth beach is so quiet but yet so whimsical, however my perception of this poignant fever-dream was brutally crushed by a lifeguard. This lifeguard told me the other beach-goers were not actually “paid-actors” but “actual members of the public”. This broke my small southern heart as I pondered where I would have to take my antics of robbing old people and stamping on thier hands. No longer could I scream in the face of the general public, and lob dog faeces of their cars. THIS WAS HEARTBREAKING. The magic witchdoctor gave me a “special packet of spice/s” to calm my nerves, although I wonder what witchdoctor wears north face and airmax. Overall 7/10 love screaming at old peopleVisited January 2024Traveled with familyWritten January 24, 2024
- Jessica SWolverhampton, United Kingdom49 contributionsBeautiful beach, without the litter!A beautiful beach but once actually sat down, there's endless amounts of lighters, cigarette buts, and bits of rubbish. It'd be so much better if it was cleaner. However the fairground rides were great and some really nice restaurants and bars surrounding beach and nearbyVisited May 2023Traveled with familyWritten March 12, 2024
- xKiwi22Bournemouth, United Kingdom72 contributionsBournemouth BeachOmg, what a spectacular beach. Beautiful golden sands and miles long. As spring, weather not perfect beach weather but sunny day, dogs loving the beach and very relaxing walk along great promenade. Best beach in UKVisited April 2024Traveled with familyWritten April 7, 2024
- Pedro CLondon, United Kingdom75 contributionsCold water but so worth it and to explore the pier!My wife and I stayed in Bournemouth East Cliff hotel ( 5 minutes walking distance ) from the beach … amazing and highly recommended hotel! My wife and I are Portuguese and Brazilian l, we love beaches and this one definitely has amazing experiences you can share with people … one of them , is the location, where easily you can in 10 minutes walking distance to be in the central of the city or to your hotel. Another good thing is the food market that they have on Sunday and guess what … there was a Brazilian food market that of corse we had to try and felt satisfied! Love that they have something similar to the London eye in London here close to the beach, where you can experience the view . Another thing is the golf play field that had amazing “pirate” vibe for adults and children ( family to spend time together) After all of this, you still have the pier of Bournemouth, to walk inside the platform you will pay £1,75 but well worth it, which gives you access to a mini theme park and there is a bar/ coffee shop in the middle for you to enjoy refreshment drinks , cakes, English food, etc Highly recommended for anyone to come !Visited May 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten May 16, 2024
- BarrowlandWest Midlands, United Kingdom213 contributionsBest South Coast beachProbably the cleanest beach on the South Coast. Plenty of eateries and bars. Plus things nearby to keep you entertained, like the zip wire. Sand seems to get raked over every night. The Council are always working on things during the winter to keep the place nice (and functional). Lots of beach huts if that's your thing. Limited parking if you want to be central (e.g. close to Bournemouth Pier).Visited February 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten June 1, 2024
- suef2472015Greater London, United Kingdom61 contributionsGreat vibesBeautiful sandy beaches. Plenty to do around Bournemouth Pier. Great vibes for the younger generation and quieter as you walk towards boscombe and beyond. Plenty of places to eat and drink. Toilets and shower facilities plentiful along the walk. Games along the beach and water sports. Land train if you don’t fancy walking. Well worth a visitVisited June 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten June 28, 2024
- Bradley2013Seaford, United Kingdom43 contributionsLovely but expensive.Glorious sandy beach with shallow sea and no rocks. Sadly, mostly down from high cliffs which meant a tiring walk back uphill. The lift cost over £4 one way. All food and drinks on the seafront were really expensive as was the loungers and umbrellas.Visited July 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten July 8, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
8,986 reviews
Excellent
6,002
Very good
2,311
Average
421
Poor
135
Terrible
117
Mike C
Romsey39 contributions
Sep 2021
nowhere to park if you want to use cash, pnly accepts card payment, no good if you don't have a card. all the cafe were contactless on;y. I do not want to use card for a coffeee and they were only selling in plastic cups which makes drink taste awful, dogs on beach despite signs saying they are are not permitted, run over by escooters on prom despite not being allowed on prom, town a dump, no shops, will never recommend
Written September 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DaveOsbourne
Brighton and Hove, UK19 contributions
Jul 2021 • Solo
I reported a dog On the beach and despite calling 3 times and waiting 3 hours nobody came to deal with it.
On the hottest day of the year so far the dog had no shade and no water and was clearly in distress. I also reported it to 2 lifeguards who did absolutely nothing despite the dog being on a dog free beach infront of their tower!
I was told the beach rangers were busy yet from Boscombe pier to Hengisbury Head I never saw one in 2 days.
Clearly the rules that no dogs are allowed on the main beaches during peak doesn't apply as it certainly isn't enforced.
One of the RNLI Lifeguards I saw on patrol was actually looking inland instead of the sea.
I've been coming to Bournemouth for over 40 years and its only got worse. If your renting one of the controversial overnight beach huts then they are interested but if not your on your own!
Over the years the Council has squandered millions of tax payers money and continue to do so on projects that benefit the privileged few.
On the hottest day of the year so far the dog had no shade and no water and was clearly in distress. I also reported it to 2 lifeguards who did absolutely nothing despite the dog being on a dog free beach infront of their tower!
I was told the beach rangers were busy yet from Boscombe pier to Hengisbury Head I never saw one in 2 days.
Clearly the rules that no dogs are allowed on the main beaches during peak doesn't apply as it certainly isn't enforced.
One of the RNLI Lifeguards I saw on patrol was actually looking inland instead of the sea.
I've been coming to Bournemouth for over 40 years and its only got worse. If your renting one of the controversial overnight beach huts then they are interested but if not your on your own!
Over the years the Council has squandered millions of tax payers money and continue to do so on projects that benefit the privileged few.
Written July 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chris_Emery_27
3 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
Sandy beach, very clean if you arrive early in the morning, people were distancing and respecting each other's safe space; ice cream vendors at both ends of the beach. The water was very clean and shallow, easy to have a relaxing swim or for kids to play safely. The Oceanarium is minutes away, lots of take away places very near by, the beach gets a bit messy towards sunset as some uncivilised people left their rubbish on the beach. It would be nice if the council would have some beach chairs to rent for the day to increase the comfort of the visitors.
Written August 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wend2311
Crawley, UK6 contributions
Sep 2020 • Friends
What a fabulous beach. We have just come back from a long weekend break and the weather was hot on all days. We stayed very near the pier at the Hermitsge hotel which is a 2 minute walk to the 7 mile beach . Beautiful sand and plenty of bars and food cafes and restaurants right down by the beach. Lifesavers In their lookout building gave everyone a reassuring feeling of safety. We could safely stay at a comfortable difference as the beach is so large . There were two sets of toilets that were reasonably clean. All in all this is a fabulous place to come to and we look forward to seeing Bournemouth again in 2031
Written September 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andy C
Bedford, UK42 contributions
Aug 2020
The beach is seriously overcrowded considering we are supposed to be social distancing at the moment and this despite signs telling people it’s too busy and to go home. It is also covered in litter, I guess there are bins around, maybe some people should learn how to use them or take their rubbish home? And when did playing personal music over a speaker so that you can annoy people nearby become the norm? Serious lack of respect for the keep left signs, just a free for all. Seems like some people have completely lost the plot since we’ve been allowed out again. Personally I’d stay at home.
Written August 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Patricia Gomes
London, UK226 contributions
Jul 2020 • Solo
The first time that I have been in Bournemouth was 15 years ago! Looong time.
Back now, I could see the difference and the city still charming, on my point of view Bornemouth still in 70s, the architeture, the place looks like a little bit vintage.
The pier during early morning is great for a walking or just to feel the fresh air from the sea.
Lot’s of seagulls, beautiful ones.
After 11am you can have a nice fish and chips near by the beach, not expensive one, for less than 10 pounds you can have it, plus a drink.
The ice cream, well... enJOY it!
Back now, I could see the difference and the city still charming, on my point of view Bornemouth still in 70s, the architeture, the place looks like a little bit vintage.
The pier during early morning is great for a walking or just to feel the fresh air from the sea.
Lot’s of seagulls, beautiful ones.
After 11am you can have a nice fish and chips near by the beach, not expensive one, for less than 10 pounds you can have it, plus a drink.
The ice cream, well... enJOY it!
Written July 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Zoe B
Worthing, UK1,346 contributions
Aug 2020
This a lovely sandy beach with many facilities, one of the few traditional beach resorts in England that still thrives and because of this, it is very busy. You notice it more if you have come along the coast from Poole & Sandbanks as we had.
With the town a short walk away, it is always popular. The pier has been maximised with attractions, just a shame they charge you to walk along it (although understandable for running costs) but I come from a seaside town that lets you use it for free.
With the town a short walk away, it is always popular. The pier has been maximised with attractions, just a shame they charge you to walk along it (although understandable for running costs) but I come from a seaside town that lets you use it for free.
Written September 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ayalasibanda
Greater London, UK600 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
We stayed within walking distance so can't comment on parking, but passed street parking and ncp parking.
The beach was lovely, perfect long stretch on golden soft sand, no shoes required. There were some small stones and shells, but nothing major.
We were soon offered bands for the kids as oer other reviews and I loved this - felt safe that families were looked after.
It's a steep stair case down to the beach, or there's a funicular (think it said £4 odd for a family), but my kids were fine with the stairs.
The sea is calm, it welcomed you to swim in its cold waters.
The only thing that lets this place down is the amusement/fun fairs/money grabbing attractions.. no need for this...
Hours of fun
The beach was lovely, perfect long stretch on golden soft sand, no shoes required. There were some small stones and shells, but nothing major.
We were soon offered bands for the kids as oer other reviews and I loved this - felt safe that families were looked after.
It's a steep stair case down to the beach, or there's a funicular (think it said £4 odd for a family), but my kids were fine with the stairs.
The sea is calm, it welcomed you to swim in its cold waters.
The only thing that lets this place down is the amusement/fun fairs/money grabbing attractions.. no need for this...
Hours of fun
Written August 27, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tara P
Aylesbury, UK32 contributions
Aug 2022 • Family
Lovely clean beach with lots of amenities and a lovely clean beach for dogs.
Beach itself was very busy but still didn’t feel crammed.
Really disappointing toilet facilities on pier which were absolutely rancid and I’m not posh , I’ll pee anywhere but I couldn’t face these toilets and I’ll save the reasons why incase you’re eating.
They either need to charge to use these facilities or regularly check them in busy periods .
We had a few drinks in the pavilion which was lovely but again, nearest toilets are the pier.
Beach itself was very busy but still didn’t feel crammed.
Really disappointing toilet facilities on pier which were absolutely rancid and I’m not posh , I’ll pee anywhere but I couldn’t face these toilets and I’ll save the reasons why incase you’re eating.
They either need to charge to use these facilities or regularly check them in busy periods .
We had a few drinks in the pavilion which was lovely but again, nearest toilets are the pier.
Written August 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mark F
4 contributions
May 2024 • Family
Rip off parking at £7.40 on the app for 2 hours, no consideration for disabled parking with blue badge unless you have a Bournemouth and Poole permit, constantly hassled by the locals wanting money, cigarettes and tea whilst we sat out in the town.
We took our parents to Bournemouth for the day as they had never been and because we were only a 40 min drive away we thought it might be a nice day. How wrong were we. We parked on the top car park over looking the beach and promenade which had quite nice views. The parking fee was £7.40 on the parking app for 2 hours which I thought was extortionate especially if I'd known what our experience was going to be like.
My father-in-law is registered disabled and has a blue badge but please be aware parking fees still apply unless you have a local Bournemouth and Poole permit.
We walked into town and there were some nice shops opposite the park and the bird aviary but as we ventured into town it is quite run down and in poor condition. This is like many towns at the moment so this was to be expected.
We found what we thought was a nice coffee shop and sat outside as it was quite a nice morning. Within minutes of sitting down we were hassled by not one local but several over a period of 30 mins, all asking for money , cigarettes and tea. My parents became very anxious and all they wanted to do was leave and not explore the town anymore. We even had a big issue seller hassle us at the coffee shop and then again further down the street as we wouldn't give him any money.
We made our way back to the car and moved on to Christchurch where we had a lovely mid morning and afternoon vist.
If I had to sum up Bournemouth in one word I would say disappointing. I certainly wouldn't return and I wouldn't recommend a visit if your elderly or don't like to be hassled by the local community, when all you want is a stress free visit whilst you're away on holiday.
If I had to score it ,1 out of 10 would be my answer.
We took our parents to Bournemouth for the day as they had never been and because we were only a 40 min drive away we thought it might be a nice day. How wrong were we. We parked on the top car park over looking the beach and promenade which had quite nice views. The parking fee was £7.40 on the parking app for 2 hours which I thought was extortionate especially if I'd known what our experience was going to be like.
My father-in-law is registered disabled and has a blue badge but please be aware parking fees still apply unless you have a local Bournemouth and Poole permit.
We walked into town and there were some nice shops opposite the park and the bird aviary but as we ventured into town it is quite run down and in poor condition. This is like many towns at the moment so this was to be expected.
We found what we thought was a nice coffee shop and sat outside as it was quite a nice morning. Within minutes of sitting down we were hassled by not one local but several over a period of 30 mins, all asking for money , cigarettes and tea. My parents became very anxious and all they wanted to do was leave and not explore the town anymore. We even had a big issue seller hassle us at the coffee shop and then again further down the street as we wouldn't give him any money.
We made our way back to the car and moved on to Christchurch where we had a lovely mid morning and afternoon vist.
If I had to sum up Bournemouth in one word I would say disappointing. I certainly wouldn't return and I wouldn't recommend a visit if your elderly or don't like to be hassled by the local community, when all you want is a stress free visit whilst you're away on holiday.
If I had to score it ,1 out of 10 would be my answer.
Written May 5, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I just saw it. Didnt swimmingpool, few did.
Written July 23, 2022
sid
Solihull, United Kingdom
Hi. Is the beach open in October ? As we’re planning a family trip in mid of October.
Written September 24, 2021
all year around but check the whether?
Written September 29, 2021
Hi, just wondered if anyone can recommend a good swimming pool to go to?
Written July 27, 2021
what is there to do in Bournemouth and surrounding areas when its raining? Rain is predicted for next few days wh ed n we are going
Written September 21, 2020
Not a lot really, just pubs and restaurants if you can get in. A lot of places are closed due to.lockdown.
Written September 21, 2020
Going in September for my hubby’s 40th what’s good to do in Bournemouth that time of year
Written August 15, 2020
If you have the weather a lovely walk through the park. Then along the beach. Stop of at each different beach for a cheeky drink
Written September 21, 2020
Is this beach dog friendly?
Written July 20, 2020
I saw a lot of dogs so yes I’d say so!
Written September 18, 2020
The beach is 7 miles long. If you need to be near facilities the beach Will be busier near the facilities but quieter further away. yes Friday’s are normally quieter than Saturday , except for peak holiday time on a hot day when the beach is always busy because it is so lovely
Written July 15, 2020
Thinking of coming w/c 17th Feb but wondered whether places will be open.
Written February 3, 2020
I think some will be but not sure. Might be good to go on the Bournemouth website to see. Especially as it’s still the winter time.
Written February 4, 2020
Hi Tilly
I live here, and am saddened at your comment. Bournemouth beach is seven miles long. Certainly, the beach is crowded around the piers, but move along a bit and there is oodles of space. I have a beach hut under Fisherman's Walk, and this Monday I was there with family, enjoying fabulous and un-crowded sand, and great swimming. Try hiring a beach hut next time, away from the piers. I promise you, it is well worth it.
Written August 28, 2019
I am not Tilly and gave a good review
Written September 4, 2019
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