Poole's beaches divide into two kinds: the open bay beaches facing south, and the harbour shore facing in. They suit different days.
Sandbanks
The famous one, on the spit at the harbour mouth. Wide sand, lifeguards in season, full facilities, and the busiest of the lot. Car parks fill by mid-morning on hot days. See Sandbanks.
Shore Road
The stretch running west from Sandbanks along the bay, with beach huts, parking and an easier approach than the peninsula itself.
Canford Cliffs and Branksome Chine
Reached through wooded valleys cut down the cliff, which gives them shade, shelter and slightly fewer people. See Canford Cliffs.
Branksome Dene
Further east again, and usually the quietest of the bay beaches, with year-round dog access on parts of it.
Hamworthy Park
On the harbour side, so the water is shallow and calm rather than open sea. Grass, a playground and a paddling area behind the sand. Best for small children. See Hamworthy.
Read beach safety before you swim, and see beach hut hire.