Dorset: where the picturesque coast meets the open sea.
Have you ever wanted to glide along the water with stunning views and fascinating wildlife?
The best places to paddle board in Dorset are waiting for you.
Prepare yourself to discover the hidden gems of the UK’s coastline. Ready for the adventure?
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Dorset
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Poole Harbour
- Location Type: Bay
- Access Point: Sandbanks (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm, shallow water, protected from wind
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Wading birds, seals, various fish species
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Brownsea Island, Old Harry Rocks, Purbeck Hills
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, respect restricted areas
Poole Harbour is a natural haven in Dorset for paddle boarders of all abilities. With its calm, shallow waters and protected wind conditions, it is an ideal location for beginners to learn and experts to enjoy the scenic views.
Take in sights like the picturesque Brownsea Island and the famous Old Harry Rocks as you glide along the water.
#2 Studland Bay
- Location Type: Oceanfront
- Access Point: Knoll Beach or Middle Beach (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Mild waves, gentle currents
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, seals, occasional dolphins
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Old Harry Rocks, Isle of Wight
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for swimmers, currents can be stronger around headlands
Studland Bay offers stunning oceanfront scenery, soft golden sand, and clear waters perfect for paddleboarding.
The sheltered bay provides good conditions for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Make sure to take in the views of Old Harry Rocks and the Isle of Wight as you explore this beautiful location.
#3 Weymouth Bay
- Location Type: Bay
- Access Point: Weymouth Beach (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm water, sheltered bay, mild winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, various fish species
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Weymouth Pavilion, Jurassic Coastline
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, respect local restrictions
Weymouth Bay is a picturesque location offering calm water and a sheltered bay, perfect for paddleboarding.
Its proximity to the dramatic Jurassic Coastline allows paddlers to explore unique scenery and local wildlife. Glide past the Weymouth Pavilion and discover the area’s rich coastal heritage.
#4 Kimmeridge Bay
- Location Type: Oceanfront
- Access Point: Kimmeridge Bay Beach (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle waves, rocky beach, access to sheltered areas
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Various fish species, marine life within rock pools
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Clavell Tower, Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Wear appropriate footwear, be aware of tide times
Kimmeridge Bay is a popular spot among ocean lovers due to its remarkable marine life and rock pool formations.
The bay provides an excellent environment for paddlers interested in exploring the fascinating underwater world. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife and enjoy the stunning views of Clavell Tower and the Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve.
#5 Mudeford Quay
- Location Type: Bay
- Access Point: Mudeford Quay (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Sheltered bay, calm water
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Various bird species, fish
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Christchurch Harbour, Hengistbury Head
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, respect local regulations
Mudeford Quay offers a tranquil and sheltered bay for paddleboarding in Christchurch Harbour.
Its calm waters make it suitable for all skill levels, and you can enjoy the diverse landscape of Hengistbury Head and watch various bird species while out on the water.
#6 Lyme Regis
- Location Type: Oceanfront
- Access Point: Lyme Regis Beach (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle waves, mild currents
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, various fish species
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: The Cobb, Jurassic Coastline
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious during busy times, respect designated swimming areas
Lyme Regis, located on the Jurassic Coast, offers paddlers a uniquely historic and scenic setting.
The gently sloping beach provides good conditions for learning and enjoying the sport. Take in the beautiful views of the iconic Cobb Harbour wall and the surrounding coastline as you paddle around the area.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Dorset?
Top paddle boarding locations in Dorset include Poole Harbour, Studland Bay, Lulworth Cove, and the Jurassic Coast.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Dorset?
No, there’s no requirement to register paddle boards in Dorset.
When is the best time to paddle board in Dorset?
Early summer to late autumn, when the weather conditions are calm and warm, is the best time to paddle board in Dorset.
