Bournemouth Beach offers a safe and enjoyable swimming experience with its seven miles of golden sands and professional RNLI beach lifeguards present during the season. The RNLI provides beach safety across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole, with lifeguards operating from 10 am to 6 pm on main Bournemouth beaches. Designated bathing areas are marked out using the RNLI’s red and yellow flags, indicating areas patrolled by lifeguards.
Bournemouth Beach Safety and Lifeguard Services
Bournemouth’s beaches have maintained high international standards for beach cleanliness and environmental management, securing 12 Blue Flag awards and 14 Seaside Awards for various beaches like Alum Chine, Durley Chine, Fisherman’s Walk, Southbourne, Branksome Chine, Canford Cliffs, Shore Road, Sandbanks, Friars Cliff, Avon Beach, Highcliffe, and Manor Steps.
Swimming at a lifeguarded beach between the red and yellow flags and never swimming alone are essential safety measures. For exact locations and patrol times of the lifeguarded beaches, visit the RNLI website.
Bathing Water Quality in Bournemouth
For bathing water quality, 19 beaches in the Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole area are sampled for bathing water quality during the summer months (May to September) by the Environment Agency. The information is available to the public by displaying it on notice boards, indicating the bathing water quality (excellent, good, sufficient, or poor) at each beach in the area.
Bournemouth Pier to Pier Swim
Bournemouth Pier to Pier Swim is one of Europe’s biggest charity open water swimming events, covering 1.4 miles between Boscombe and Bournemouth Piers. This annual event attracts thousands of swimmers and raises funds for the British Heart Foundation.
Unique Features of Bournemouth Beach Swimming
- Blue Flag and Seaside Awards: Bournemouth’s beaches have consistently maintained high standards for cleanliness and environmental management, earning prestigious Blue Flag and Seaside Awards.
- RNLI Lifeguard Presence: The RNLI provides professional lifeguard services on Bournemouth’s main beaches, ensuring a safe swimming experience for visitors.
- Bathing Water Quality Monitoring: The Environment Agency regularly tests the bathing water quality at 19 beaches in the Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole area, providing up-to-date information to the public.
- Bournemouth Pier to Pier Swim: This iconic open water swimming event attracts thousands of participants and raises funds for the British Heart Foundation.
Preparing for Your Bournemouth Beach Swimming Adventure
Before heading to Bournemouth Beach for a swim, consider the following tips:
- Check Lifeguard Patrol Times: Ensure you only swim in the designated bathing areas between the red and yellow flags when lifeguards are on duty.
- Review Bathing Water Quality: Check the latest bathing water quality information for the beach you plan to visit, available on notice boards or online.
- Bring Necessary Gear: Pack your swimsuit, towel, and any other necessary swimming gear to make the most of your Bournemouth beach experience.
- Stay Hydrated and Sun-Safe: Bring plenty of water and apply sunscreen to protect yourself from the elements.
- Familiarize Yourself with the Beach Layout: Locate the access points, parking areas, and any other relevant facilities to plan your visit.
By following these guidelines and taking advantage of the safety features and amenities available at Bournemouth Beach, you can enjoy a safe and memorable swimming experience.
Conclusion
Bournemouth Beach offers a unique and enjoyable swimming destination for beach enthusiasts. With its Blue Flag and Seaside Award-winning beaches, professional RNLI lifeguard services, and regular bathing water quality monitoring, Bournemouth provides a safe and clean environment for swimmers of all skill levels. Whether you’re participating in the iconic Bournemouth Pier to Pier Swim or simply enjoying a leisurely dip in the sea, Bournemouth Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a fantastic beach swimming experience.