Friars Cliff Beach is about 1 mile east from Mudeford Quay and about half way between Mudeford Quay and Highcliffe Beach. It’s a shingle and sand beach with a safe, gentle slope into the sea making it popular with local families and usually a bit less crowded than the nearby Avon Beach. Lifeguard service during July and August. There is a designated water sports area at the eastern end of the beach. The Beach Hut Cafe is worth a visit for meals and home made cakes http://www.beachhutcafe.uk. There are public toilets next to the cafe.
Probably the best place to park is at the Steamer Point Car Park which is just off Penny Way BH23 4UE (Google Map) which is also next to the Steamer Point Nature Reserve. Its a lovely 10 minute walk through the nature reserve to Highcliffe Castle.
Steamer Point Car Park
Sat Nav postcode is BH23 4UE. Capacity 168 spaces. Note that this car park is closed overnight between 9pm and 9am. Car park charges are given below. You can’t pay by cash but the machines will accept card payment. Alternatively you can pay by phone or using an online app (JustPark, RingGo or PayByPhone).
More information can be found on the https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/Parking/ website
Steamer Point Car Park Charges
| April-May | June-Sept | Oct-Mar | |
| 1 hour | £1.70 | £1.90 | £0.80 |
| 2 hours | £2.80 | £3.30 | £0.80 |
| 4 hours | £4.80 | £6.10 | £0.80 |
| 12 hours | £9.30 | £10.40 | £0.80 |
Steamer Point Nature Reserve is a 24 acre beautiful cliff top wooded nature reserve situated between Friar’s Cliff and Highcliffe Castle. The reserve has an unmanned information centre and incorporates an interactive display for children. There are also several seats along the cliff top with sea views and picnic benches.
Related Pages: Highcliffe Beach / Highcliffe Castle / Avon Beach / Mudeford Quay / Mudeford Sandbank / Christchurch / Hengistbury Head