Beaches

Love beach life? Christchurch sits as the starting point for 15 miles of glorious coastline that together forms the Coast with the Most. From Mudeford and Hengistbury Head, to Southbourne and Boscombe, Bournemouth and the Chines, all the way to Sandbanks, this near-uninterrupted stretch of coastline is stunning no matter the weather.

If it’s chilling on a deckchair, strolling along the lapping waves, relaxing in a hired beach hut, enjoying tasty food or just admiring miles of breath-taking views this dramatic coastline has something for visitors of all ages and dispositions and Christchurch is its gateway.

From Friars Cliff, Avon Beach and up to Hengistbury Head this is stand-out coastal destination with miles of unspoilt and lifeguard manned beaches in the summer months, and assorted restaurant and dining options which allow you to sit and relax and take in the gorgeous views on offer. Whether you just want that quintessentially British experience of fish and chips (don’t forget the curry sauce!) sat with your feet buried into the golden sand, the rest-bite of a cool ice-cream in the sweltering summer season or a romantic evening meal in the warmth of a golden winter sunset then you will certainly find the ideal place on the Christchurch seafront.

Both Avon and Friars Cliff beaches have accessible routes and appropriate facilities for disabled visitors and young families to ensure that everyone is able to enjoy this beautiful part of the south coast of England.

Staying Safe

We want you to enjoy your time at the beach in safely, so if you're heading to our coast, please follow the @RNLI's beach safety messages:

• Choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags
• Check the weather and tide times before you go
• If you get caught in a rip current, don’t swim against it – instead, relax and float until you are free from the rip, then swim to safety
• If you find yourself in danger in the water, relax and float.

RNLI Beach Safety: https://rnli.org/safety/beach-safety