Christchurch, Dorset, England, United Kingdom

Friars Cliff Beach

Located in Christchurch, UK, Friars Cliff Beach is a serene and spacious beach that offers a safe swimming environment for families. The beach showcases picturesque views of the Hurst Spit, the Purbeck Hills, and the Isle of Wight. The beach terrain mainly comprises sand with some shingle patches, and there is a promenade with rentable beach huts. The beach provides good facilities, water quality, and a lifeguard during summer. Visitors can also enjoy designated water sports areas and a clifftop walk through the Steamer Point Nature Reserve to Highcliffe Castle.

Discover accommodation options near Friars Cliff Beach and enjoy the serene views of the Hurst Spit and Purbeck Hills.

The Beach Hut Café is a popular spot that serves homemade meals and snacks, including gluten-free options. However, dogs and horses have specific restrictions, and open fires are prohibited. Amenities on the beach include toilets, bars, and restaurants. Friars Cliff Beach is an ideal destination for families seeking a tranquil and family-friendly beach with breathtaking views.

What to do at Friars Cliff Beach?

Amenities

Friars Cliff Beach amenities include toilet.

Bars

You can enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the bars situated on the beach.

Restaurants

You can enjoy one of the restaurants at the beach while soaking up the sun.

Where to Stay near Friars Cliff Beach?

If you’re planning a trip to Friars Cliff Beach, consider staying in the nearby town of Christchurch, which offers a variety of accommodations and easy access to the beach. Many visitors also choose to explore the scenic Highcliffe area, known for its charming atmosphere and proximity to Highcliffe Castle.

The following map shows available accommodations and their prices. See the full list of accommodation options here.

Where is Friars Cliff Beach?

Latitude: 50.7366909 / Longitude: -1.7280776

Friars Cliff Beach is located in Christchurch. The following map of Friars Cliff Beach shows the exact location.

Friars Cliff Beach: Weather Today

📅 Monday, September 7, 2026
Today at Friars Cliff Beach is not an ideal day for sunbathing or relaxing by the water. With the skies covered in heavy clouds and light drizzle falling throughout the day, the atmosphere remains quite gray and dampened. The breeze is brisk and rather strong at times, making it feel quite chilly while out on the sand. The air temperature reaches a modest 22.7 °C, but conditions are far from warm. The water is currently too cold for swimming at 18.5 °C, and the sea is quite choppy with noticeable waves rolling in. If you decide to visit, please come prepared for blustery, damp weather and leave the swimsuit at home, as this is definitely a day for a brisk walk along the shore rather than a beach holiday experience.
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Air

Low / High16.7°C/22.7°C
Feels Like (High)22.2°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature18.5 °C
Wave Height0.9 m
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Rain

Rain Chance18%
Rainfall0.3 mm
Rain Duration2 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:29/19:39
Sunshine Hours5.2 hrs
UV Index3.65
Cloud Cover94%
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Wind

Speed21.6 km/h
Gusts42.1 km/h
DirectionSW

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