If you’re seeking a tranquil escape from the bustling crowds of Bournemouth’s main beaches, there are several hidden gems that offer a more serene experience. From the secluded Hengistbury Head to the picturesque Friars Cliff, this guide will take you on a journey through the quieter areas of Bournemouth Beach.
Hengistbury Head: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Hengistbury Head is a local nature reserve that provides a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the main beaches. This area is known for its stunning views over the long coast around Bournemouth, and the beaches here are relatively quiet and feel well hidden. The Mudeford Sandbank, also known as Mudeford Beach, is a highlight of this area, with its rows of colorful beach huts and a public toilet at the start and end of the sandbank, as well as an eatery called the Beach House.
Friars Cliff: A Serene Escape
Friars Cliff in Christchurch is another option for those seeking a quieter beach experience. This beach is usually one of the less crowded areas, offering a more tranquil atmosphere. Southbourne Beach, towards Hengistbury Head, is also worth exploring for its peaceful ambiance.
Secluded Beaches Beyond Bournemouth
If you’re willing to venture a bit further, there are several other secluded beaches in or around Bournemouth that are worth considering. These include:
Shell Bay in Studland
Shell Bay in Studland is a spacious shore directly opposite the upscale Sandbanks area. Accessible via a four-minute car ferry from Sandbanks, this beach is a crowd pleaser, with fine grains for sandcastle building, boardwalk-laced dunes for strolling, and shallow waters for paddleboarding. There is also a free-to-use beach volleyball court and a renowned seafood bistro called Shellbay.
Worbarrow Bay in Tyneham
Worbarrow Bay in Tyneham is another secluded option, though it requires a 20-minute hike through an MoD practice range that is closed at weekends. This beach has calm waters and is good for swimming, surfing, and sailing. It also has a stony beach and an Iron Age hillfort standing sentinel atop a 150-metre cliff.
West Bexington Beach
West Bexington Beach, towards the western end of Chesil Beach, is a quiet and easily accessible section of Thomas Hardy’s favorite beach. The water is deep, making it not particularly suitable for swimmers, but anglers enjoy fishing for strange creatures that lurk in the depths. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the reed-covered nature reserve, where children and birdwatchers can play “spot the warbler”.
Costs and Accessibility
When visiting these quieter areas of Bournemouth Beach, it’s important to be aware of any parking fees or ferry fares that may apply. For example, the Sandbanks ferry to Shell Bay costs £4.60 for a return trip for cars, and parking fees may be in effect in some areas. It’s always a good idea to check ahead for any restrictions or fees.
Conclusion
If you’re seeking a more peaceful and serene beach experience in the Bournemouth area, there are several hidden gems worth exploring. From the nature-rich Hengistbury Head to the secluded beaches beyond Bournemouth, these quieter areas offer a chance to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
References:
– Dorset Travel Guide – Beaches Near Bournemouth
– Get Reading – Bournemouth’s Hidden Beach and Lagoon
– i News – Best Dorset Beaches
– TripAdvisor – Secluded Beaches in or around Bournemouth
– Dorset Live – Secluded Dorset Beach