Bournemouth Beach runs 7 miles of Blue-Flag sand from Alum Chine in the west to Hengistbury Head in the east. The promenade behind it stays flat and step-free the whole way, so pushchairs and bikes make it end to end.
Local knowledge in 60 words.
The middle 3 miles (Alum Chine to Boscombe Pier) is the family swim stretch: lifeguarded July to early September, gentle shelving, water clarity best on outgoing tides. East of Boscombe Pier is quieter and dog-permitted year-round. West of Alum Chine at Branksome Chine, the sand narrows and stones creep in below the high-tide line.
Three hotels on the promenade.
- Marriott Highcliff. West Cliff Road corner, direct Zig-Zag descent to the sand. 6 minutes to the beach. Rate band £180 to £340.
- Cumberland Hotel. East Overcliff Drive art-deco landmark, cliff-lift a minute from the entrance in season. 3 minutes to the beach. Rate band £150 to £290.
- Cliffeside Hotel. Southbourne Overcliff Drive, family-run, patio rooms with sea view. 3 minutes to the beach via the Fisherman’s Walk lift. Rate band £110 to £170.
Practical tips.
- Dog rule: main 3-mile stretch bans dogs 10:00-18:00 from 1 May to 30 September; east of Boscombe Pier and west of Alum Chine allow dogs year-round.
- Parking: Undercliff Drive is closed to cars April to October; use West Overcliff, Overcliff Drive or Boscombe Overcliff Drive pay-and-display (£3 per hour).
- Seasonal: land trains run the promenade Easter to October between Alum Chine and Boscombe Pier; £3 single, £5 return.