Christchurch Beaches

Overview

Christchurch offers a delightful taste of the traditional British seaside holiday. Situated on England's south coast, nestled between the New Forest and the larger resort of Bournemouth, it's a charming destination known for its harbour setting and appealing coastline. It's particularly popular with families and visitors looking for a relaxed coastal escape, offering lovely sandy stretches perfect for classic beach days.

The town's main hub for sun and sand is often considered Avon Beach, favoured for its easy access and golden sands. For a truly unique experience, many visitors head to Mudeford Sandbank, a picturesque sand spit famous for its colourful (and exclusive) beach huts, reached by a short ferry ride across the harbour entrance. Nearby, Hengistbury Head Beach provides a different feel, combining beach time with stunning cliff-top views and walks through a nature reserve rich in history.

While Christchurch has plenty to offer, the iconic, vast sands of Bournemouth Beach are just a short trip away for those seeking a classic large resort atmosphere. Back in Christchurch, beaches like Friars Cliff Beach offer pleasant stretches often enjoyed by locals. These highlights, along with others detailed in our full guide, contribute to the area's popularity. Be aware that during sunny holidays, the main spots can get busy, and finding parking requires planning, but the beautiful coastline makes it worthwhile.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Is Christchurch a good destination for a traditional beach holiday?

Yes, Christchurch is a popular destination for a traditional British beach holiday. It offers several sandy beaches like Avon Beach and Mudeford Sandbank, along with classic seaside amenities such as cafes, beach huts, and opportunities for swimming and watersports, particularly appealing during warmer months.

Avon Beach

Mudeford Sandbank

What type of holidaymaker is Christchurch best suited for?

Christchurch beaches are particularly well-suited for families, offering safe swimming areas (like Avon Beach), sandy shores for playing, and nearby facilities. It also appeals to couples and those seeking a relaxed coastal break with scenic walks (Highcliffe, Friars Cliff) and unique spots like Mudeford Sandbank. It's less known for a vibrant nightlife or party scene.

Avon Beach

Highcliffe Castle Beach

Friars Cliff Beach

Mudeford Sandbank

Can you swim safely at Christchurch beaches? What's the water quality like?

Swimming is popular at Christchurch beaches, especially Avon Beach and Friars Cliff. Water quality is generally good, with Avon Beach often achieving Blue Flag status, indicating high environmental and safety standards. However, always check local conditions and lifeguard advice, as sea conditions can change. Mudeford Sandbank can have stronger currents near the harbour entrance (the Run).

Avon Beach

Friars Cliff Beach

Mudeford Sandbank

Are dogs allowed on Christchurch beaches?

Dog restrictions apply on Christchurch's main beaches during the peak season. Typically, from 1st May to 30th September, dogs are not allowed on Avon Beach, Friars Cliff Beach, and Mudeford Sandbank. However, dogs are usually welcome on Gundimore Beach (between Avon Beach and Mudeford Quay) and parts of Highcliffe Beach year-round. Always check local signage for specific zoned areas and dates as regulations can change.

Are there hotels or places to stay right on the beach in Christchurch?

Directly on the beach accommodation is limited. The Christchurch Harbour Hotel & Spa is very close to Mudeford Quay with harbour views. There are holiday parks near Highcliffe and some guesthouses or B&Bs in the Friars Cliff and Mudeford areas offering close beach proximity. Renting one of the few available Mudeford Sandbank beach huts offers a unique 'on the beach' experience, but most accommodation is a short walk or drive away.

Mudeford Sandbank

Friars Cliff Beach

Highcliffe Castle Beach

Where can I park for Christchurch beaches and is it expensive?

Parking is available but can be challenging and costly, especially during peak season. Avon Beach has a large pay-and-display car park right by the beach. Mudeford Quay has pay-and-display parking, which is the access point for the ferry to Mudeford Sandbank (which itself has no public car access). Highcliffe Castle and Cliffhanger Cafe offer parking for Highcliffe Beach access. Costs vary, and spaces fill up quickly on sunny days, so arriving early is recommended.

Avon Beach

Mudeford Sandbank

Highcliffe Castle Beach

How do you get to Mudeford Sandbank?

Mudeford Sandbank is a sand spit accessible primarily by a short passenger ferry ride from Mudeford Quay. Alternatively, you can walk from the Hengistbury Head side via a land train or a longer walk (approx. 30-40 minutes from the Hengistbury Head car park). There is no direct public road access or parking on the Sandbank itself.

Mudeford Sandbank

Hengistbury Head Beach

Which is the best sandy beach in Christchurch?

Avon Beach is widely considered the best traditional sandy beach in Christchurch, known for its golden sands, relatively safe swimming, and convenient facilities. Mudeford Sandbank also boasts beautiful sandy stretches, offering a different, more remote feel.

Avon Beach

Mudeford Sandbank

Avon Beach or Mudeford Sandbank - which is better?

It depends on what you're looking for. Avon Beach is easier to access by car, has more facilities directly on the beach (cafes, toilets, shops), and is often preferred by families with young children. Mudeford Sandbank offers a more unique, slightly wilder experience, famous for its colourful beach huts and reached by ferry or a walk; it feels more secluded despite being popular.

Avon Beach

Mudeford Sandbank

Are there toilets and cafes available at the main beaches?

Yes, the main beaches are well-served. Avon Beach has public toilets, cafes (like the Noisy Lobster), and shops. Mudeford Quay (ferry point for the Sandbank) has toilets and kiosks. Mudeford Sandbank itself has public toilets and a cafe (Beach House Cafe). Friars Cliff also has toilets and a popular cafe/restaurant. Highcliffe has facilities near the car parks and cafes like the Cliffhanger.

Avon Beach

Mudeford Sandbank

Friars Cliff Beach

Highcliffe Castle Beach

Are Christchurch beaches very crowded?

Christchurch beaches, particularly Avon Beach and Mudeford Sandbank/Quay, can get very crowded during sunny days in the summer holidays and on bank holiday weekends. Parking can be especially difficult during these times. Visiting outside of peak school holidays (e.g., June or September) or arriving early in the morning can provide a less crowded experience.

Avon Beach

Mudeford Sandbank

Are there quieter beaches near Christchurch?

Yes, while still popular, Friars Cliff Beach and Highcliffe Beach (especially towards the east) can sometimes feel slightly less intensely crowded than Avon Beach or Mudeford Sandbank during peak times. Gundimore Beach, located between Mudeford Quay and Avon Beach, is also often quieter, partly because it's more pebbly in places and popular with dog walkers.

What are the colourful beach huts at Mudeford Sandbank?

The beach huts on Mudeford Sandbank are privately owned, often passed down through generations, and are some of the most expensive beach huts in the UK. They are unique as many are equipped for overnight stays (though without mains electricity or sewage). While most are private, a small number occasionally become available for holiday rental through private arrangements or specialist agencies.

Mudeford Sandbank

Can you have BBQs on the beach in Christchurch?

No, BBQs (including disposable ones) are generally not permitted on any Christchurch beaches or cliff tops due to fire risk and environmental concerns. This rule is enforced by BCP Council. Signs are usually displayed, and fines can be issued.

Where is the best place for crabbing near Christchurch beaches?

Mudeford Quay is the most popular and renowned spot for crabbing in the Christchurch area. Its shallow waters along the harbour wall are ideal for children and families to try catching crabs with lines and bait (bacon is traditional!).