Swanage Beach

About

The sandy beach is one of the main attractions of the town. The waters are clean, and the beach has won many European Blue Flag Awards, as well as the Seaside Award. Swanage beach has a well earned reputation for being a good place to soak up the sun and play in the sand and sea.

Deck chairs are available for hire, as are pedaloes, kayaks and sun beds. The beach runs the length of the town and is backed by a promenade lined with amusements and attractions. It is found on the South West Coast Path.

Diver training and excursions run regularly from Swanage. Other water sports include sailing, water-skiing and wind surfing.

An attractive promenade (which is partly pedestrianised during the summer months) runs along a stretch of the beach.

Hire a beach hut as the perfect base for your days out with friends and family. Book a beach hut online.

Toilets and beach shower are available.

The resort of Swanage started to become popular soon after the opening of the railway in 1885, which saw the Victorians arriving in Swanage to enjoy the clean air and the new fashion of ‘sea bathing’ and soon became known as one of the sunniest towns on the south coast.

Type of beach: Sandy

Lifeguards: Yes. From 29th May to 12 September, daily 10am - 6pm.

Toilets: Yes. Numerous public toilets and baby changing facilities throughout town and beach front. 

Accessible facilities: Flat seafront with ramps onto the beach. Accessible toilets on Shore Road and the Pier, plus 24 hour access with radar key at Mermond Place. 

Parking: Car parks in town and on the beach front.

Dogs: Dogs are welcome off lead on Swanage beach between 1st October - 30th April each year. From the 1st May - 30th September, dogs are not permitted on the Council-owned Central Beach, however, pet owners are welcome to use 'Monkey Beach' which is located by the old stone quay, close to the pier. On The Parade and adjacent roads leading to the beaches, dogs should be on leads at all times.