Swanage and the surrounding area are home to some of Dorset’s most beautiful beaches. A trip to the beach isn’t just a summer activity – Swanage offers dog-friendly beaches, scenic family-friendly spots, and plenty of space to explore all year round. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing coastal stroll, a fun day out with the kids, or time on the sand with your furry friend, Swanage has a variety of beaches to enjoy.
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Swanage Beach
Shore Road, Swanage, BH19 1LB
Swanage beach which is also known as Main beach is a golden sandy beach which boasts both a blue flag award and also a seaside award. This is one of the very popular beaches in Swanage attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Dog aren’t permitted on Swanage beach between 1st May and 30th September. You wont be short of attractions on the beach however, with deckchairs, pedalos and sunbeds all for hire.
During the Summer months there is also a Punch and Judy show close to the promenande. Close by on the promenade there are plenty of ice cream huts and beach huts for hire through the year.
If that’s not enough excitement for you, then you can visit K’s Funworld arcade and The Hungry Shark village for adventure golf and small funfair rides.
There is plenty of parking close by, the closest being Mermond Place short stay car park. The closest long stay car park and largest is the Main beach car park just a few minutes walk down the road.
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Monkey Beach, Swanage
Pier Head, Swanage, BH19 2FA
You’ll find Monkey beach located near the Victorian pier and close to parts of North Beach. Monkey beach is also one of Dorset’s dog friendly beaches all year round. Perfect if you’re taking your dog out with you and they love a run on the beach.
South Beach
BH19 3AU
If you like a quieter beach, then a visit to South Beach is a must. This is a popular beach for paddle boarding as the waters are quite shallow and mainly calm.
The South Beach car park is owned by the National Trust and is located near the Bankes Arms just a short drive out of the main Swanage town. South Beach car park is also a good spot for parking if you want to visit Old Harry Rocks.
Knoll Beach
BH19 3AH
Knoll beach is owned by the National Trust and has a large car park which is free for National trust members. To one end of Knoll beach there is a naturist area. There are refreshment facilities at Knoll beach and even a cute second hand book shop hut.
Shell Bay Beach
Ferry Rd, Swanage BH19 3BA
You’ll find Shell Bay located right on the peninsula and the first beach you see after exiting the chain ferry from Sandbanks.
Shell Bay is owned by the National Trust and has the feeling of being a more rugged beach with plenty of sand dunes.
If you like to watch the ships passing across the waters, then Shell Bay is a great spot to sit and while away the hours.
Middle Beach, Swanage
There are low cliffs and plenty of facilities including toilets and refreshments at Middle Beach. Located between South beach and Knoll beach in Studland near Swanage, Middle beach is also owned by the National Trust.