Bournemouth, UK: where coastal adventures meet scenic beauty.
Fancy paddling alongside swans or beneath the iconic piers?
Discover the best places to paddle board in Bournemouth as you immerse yourself in its stunning seaside charm.
Get set, and let’s explore Bournemouth’s picturesque shores together. Are you ready?
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Bournemouth
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 Alum Chine Beach
- ????️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- ???? Access Point: Alum Chine Beach Parking (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle waves, can be windy at times
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Seagulls, occasional dolphins
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Isle of Wight, Bournemouth Pier
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Adhere to swimming and watercraft zones, be cautious in busy seasons
Alum Chine Beach, located on Bournemouth’s west cliff, offers excellent paddleboarding conditions with its gentle waves and stunning views of the Isle of Wight.
Its accessible location and serene environment make it a popular spot for paddleboarders of all skill levels.
#2 Poole Harbour
- ????️ Location Type: Bay
- ???? Access Point: Baiter Park (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm sheltered waters, occasional winds
- Popular Seasons: Year-round
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Birds, seals, jellyfish
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Brownsea Island, Sandbanks Peninsula, Old Harry Rocks
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of boat traffic, respect local wildlife
Poole Harbour, right next to Bournemouth, offers sheltered and calm waters ideal for paddleboarding.
The picturesque harbor, teeming with wildlife and surrounded by breathtaking scenery, promises a peaceful and enjoyable paddleboarding experience.
#3 Sandbanks
- ????️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- ???? Access Point: Sandbanks Beach Parking (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Sheltered coastline, gentle waves
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Seagulls, occasional dolphins
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Millionaire’s Row, Poole Harbour entrance
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Respect beach zones, be aware of boat traffic
Sandbanks, often considered the UK’s Riviera, boasts soft sand and stunning views. With its protected coastline, it is perfect for families and beginners to enjoy paddleboarding.
#4 Hengistbury Head
- ????️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- ???? Access Point: Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle currents, can be windy
- Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Birds, occasional seals
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Christchurch Harbour, Mudeford Spit
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious in windy conditions, respect nature reserve rules
Hengistbury Head, located to the east of Bournemouth, offers tranquil and scenic paddleboarding near the mouth of Christchurch Harbour.
Its unique geography, rich wildlife, and breathtaking views make it an ideal spot for nature lovers and calm-water paddleboarders.
#5 Boscombe Beach
- ????️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- ???? Access Point: Boscombe Beach Parking (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Mild waves, swell can increase
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Seagulls, occasional dolphins
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Boscombe Pier, Isle of Wight
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Respect beach zones, be cautious in bigger swells
Boscombe Beach, just a short distance from Bournemouth, offers great paddleboarding for both experienced and novice boarders.
With its picturesque pier and beautiful seascapes, it’s an excellent spot to enjoy during warmer seasons.
#6 Studland Bay
- ????️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- ???? Access Point: Knoll Beach Car Park (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Sheltered coastline, mild waves
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, seals, occasional dolphins
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Old Harry Rocks, picturesque beach
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Respect local wildlife, be cautious of boat traffic
Studland Bay, situated just outside of Bournemouth, offers picturesque scenery and calm, sheltered waters perfect for paddleboarding.
Marvel at the iconic Old Harry Rocks while enjoying the serene coastal atmosphere.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Bournemouth?
Bournemouth offers several spots for paddle boarding, including Bournemouth Beach, Poole Harbour, and Hengistbury Head.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Bournemouth?
No, there is no need to register paddle boards in Bournemouth.
When is the best time to paddle board in Bournemouth?
The optimal time for paddle boarding in Bournemouth is from late spring to early autumn due to milder weather conditions.
