Top 5 Beaches in the New Forest

When you think about a family holiday in the New Forest, a day at the beach probably isn’t the first thing that springs to mind. With a gorgeous, largely unspoilt coastline along the Solent though, the national park really is one of the best locations in the south for sandcastles, ice-cream and working on your tan!

Here are a few recommendations of the best beaches to hit during your stay.

Barton on Sea:

Barton on Sea: A safe beach with views out across the Solent to the Isle of Wight. When you’re tired of sandcastles, try a spot of fossil hunting; the soft clay, frequently worn down by the elements, makes Barton on Sea one of the best spots around to find an ancient imprint or two, so don’t be surprised if you go home with a car full of Jurassic rocks!

Best for: Budding palaeontologists.

Calshot:

This mile-long, narrow spit of shingle sits at the entrance to Southampton Water, making it an ideal spot for watching the mass of marine traffic coming and going from the port. The beach is well known as a haven for water sports; sailing, windsurfing and kayaking can all be enjoyed here, with equipment for hire and qualified instruction available from Calshot Activity Centre.

Best for: Wet and wild adventures.

Lepe:

Set within the Lepe Country Park a short distance from Calshot, Lepe enjoys some of the most stunning sunsets in the area. Kick off a sunny afternoon with a barbecue in the country park; there are two sites that can be rented through the Hampshire Council website, both just a short walk from the beach.

Best for: Sunsets and sausages.

Mudeford Sandbank:

Mudeford is a delightfully family-friendly spot that caters very well for younger children. Even the journey to the beach will entertain the little ones as you choose between a short ferry ride from Mudeford Quay or a ride on the little land train from Hengistbury Head car park. The warm yellow sand here makes it one of the best beaches for lazing in the sun while the kids paddle in the surf.

Best for: Tiny tots and toddlers.

Image produced by © John Goldsmith and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence

Bournemouth:

Although not strictly in the New Forest, no guide would be complete without mentioning the quintessential seaside town, just a short drive to the west from the national park. Once a sleepy retirement community, Bournemouth is now a vibrant and bustling town with wonderful beaches to complement the wide selection of cafes and restaurants. Try Alum Chine beach with its adventure playground and tropical gardens, or take a stroll along one of the piers at Boscombe or Bournemouth central beach.

Best for: The all-round seaside experience.

Hit the Sand

A short break in the New Forest offers the opportunity for everything from shady forest walks in sylvan woodlands to pony trekking and cycling through sunlit glades; just make sure you don’t miss out on the wonderful coastline gracing its southern edge. With a beach to suit all visitors, you’re certain to discover your perfect day out on the sand.