Blue Flag beaches in Dorset include the famous Sandbanks Peninsular and the picturesque Victorian seaside resort of Swanage. For 2025 there are 10 blue flag beaches in total which are listed below.
Blue flags are awarded to beaches with high water quality and excellent facilities, safety and environmental education. The seaside award is designed to recognise different uses of the UK’s coastline. It ensures visitors are guaranteed to find a clean, safe, attractive and well-managed coastal stretch.
For more info see https://www.blueflag.global
Blue Flag Beaches in Dorset (listed in order of east to west)
Highcliffe Beach
A long, gently sloping sandy beach backed by cliffs near the Hampshire border. It is quieter than the Bournemouth beaches and offers open views across Christchurch Bay. Facilities are limited but access is straightforward, making it suitable for walking and relaxed visits rather than resort-style amenities.
Friars Cliff Beach
A sandy beach popular with families, with beach huts and easy access. It sits just east of Avon Beach and tends to be quieter while still offering basic amenities. The shallow shoreline makes it suitable for swimming, and it provides views across Christchurch Bay.
Avon Beach
A well-maintained sandy beach close to Mudeford, with good facilities including cafés and parking. It is popular but less crowded than Bournemouth. The beach offers clear views toward the Isle of Wight and is suitable for swimming, particularly in calmer conditions.
Fishermans Walk
A sandy beach accessed via a zig-zag path and cliff lift at Fisherman’s Walk. It is generally quieter than central Bournemouth while still offering good access and basic facilities. The beach provides open views across Poole Bay and is suitable for swimming and walking in a less crowded setting.
Durley Chine
A sandy beach just west of Bournemouth Pier, accessed via a chine. It is quieter than the central section but still close to facilities. The beach offers good views and is suitable for swimming and walking.
Branksome Chine
A wide sandy beach located between Bournemouth and Sandbanks. It offers a good balance between facilities and a quieter atmosphere than Bournemouth. The beach is backed by a wooded chine and promenade, with beach huts and safe swimming conditions along this stretch of Poole Bay.
Canford Cliffs Beach
A sandy beach backed by residential areas, with a quieter and more upmarket feel. Facilities are limited, and it is generally less crowded. The beach offers open views across Poole Bay.
Sandbanks Shore Road
A sandy beach along the Sandbanks peninsula, offering views across Poole Bay. It is popular but generally less crowded than the main Sandbanks beach. Facilities are available nearby.
Sandbanks Beach
One of the most well-known beaches in Dorset, with fine sand and safe swimming conditions. It is well maintained and has good facilities. The beach is popular in summer and offers open views across Poole Bay.
Swanage Beach
A sheltered sandy beach in Swanage Bay, backed by the town. It has good facilities and is suitable for swimming. The beach is popular but smaller than Bournemouth, with a more contained setting.