The Beaches of Dorset – Studland Bay
Studland Bay Beach
Studland Bay has four miles of white sand backed by sand dunes. The beaches are delineated from north to south from Shell Bay, Knoll Beach, Middle Beach and South Beach at the village of Studland. The beach forms part of the Studland National Nature Reserve and is home to many breeds of rare bird. Voted the UK’s 4th top beach by Which? Magazine – though locals would probably place it higher. Studland is also a popular family beach famous for its nudist section at Knoll Bay, the National Trust’s only designated naturist beach. As sandy as the Bournemouth beaches, but totally sheltered from the prevailing south-westerly breezes. There are four car parks, with varying prices throughout the year. Disabled spaces at Knoll car park. National Trust Members park for free.
There’s a wealth of things to do including Pedaloes, surf boards and canoes can be hired at the beach. The beach is also good for swimming, sailing, windsurfing, snorkelling and fishing. There is zoning for water sports activities. For keen ramblers the South West Coastal Path runs along the entire beach with an excellent stroll out to the picturesque Old Harry Rocks a highlight for many. The Studland Heath National Nature Reserve covers the whole peninsula. Leaflets are available from the National Trust on request.
Please note: Dogs must be on a lead on South beach, Middle beach and the southern part of Knoll beach between May 1 and September 30, but there are no restrictions on Shell beach. The National Trust has urged beach users to keep dogs under control to minimise disruption and to protect the special reserve.
Parking: Pay and display (free to National Trust members) at South Beach, Middle Beach, Knoll Beach and Shell bay.