I have to admit that I am a creature of habit when it comes to going to the beach locally – we tend to use the stretch between Bournemouth & Boscombe or occasionally go to Sandbanks and Shell Bay.
I was invited by my local National Trust Ranger to take part in a photoshoot with the kids about encouraging outdoor play and taking part in beach activities such as snorkelling, paddle boarding, canoeing etc on Studland’s beaches.
We visited three yesterday – South Beach, Middle Beach and Knoll Beach and I have to say they were all beautiful. Yes, they were busy but unlike Bournemouth and Boscombe you still had room to move on a hot day.
Also unlike Bournemouth and Boscombe beaches these beaches are not raked and cleared every morning as they are a nature reserve which the little ones loved as they were finding all sorts of things to look at – Seaweed seemed to be a particular favourite, along with shells.
The three boys went off to try some snorkelling, whilst I stayed on the beach with Eliza and Sebastian. They all loved it, although Isaac did freak out slightly when he spotted a crab – we normally only see them when Crabbing or visiting an aquarium. He was soon back in the water though to see if he could find it again.
We also made sure we completed some of the
National Trusts 50 things like jumping over a wave and making a mud (well sand) pie!
The older boys enjoyed some rock climbing before heading off to Knoll Beach for a spot of kayaking. I was really surprised to find that they had boat hire, kayaking, windsurfing and pedalo’s here as well as a lovely cafe, shop and facilities. I have promised the boys we will come back to try some more activities soon as Isaac really wanted to go on a pedalo.
Whilst the boys were out at sea, the little ones explored the sand dunes and enjoyed spotting dragonflies and butterflies who were everywhere. It was very hot, but there was a lovely sea breeze which kept us cool and the kids were wearing their UV tops from The Beach Factory plus plenty of sun cream to keep them protected. Just wish I could figure out how to keep a hat on Eliza, but she did spend some time in the UV tent with Sebastian and I.
As soon as they were back, there was only one thing they all wanted – Ice Cream!
If you are planning on visiting any of these beaches I highly recommend you arrive as early as possible as the traffic does get very busy and the car parks were full, but it is well worth it for the stunning views, clean beaches and activities.
The only issue I had from this day out was how to fold the pop-up UV tent back down……I’d never make a contestant on Krypton Factor!
I am linking this post to Country Kids by Coombe Mill – why not check out what others got up to this week.
What fab photos and you guys looked as though you had a great time. I bet those ice creams went down a treat too! x
I love this area of the country. I liked going over on the chain ferry to Sandbanks – all the beaches are gorgeous.
My favourite beach from my childhood and much loved by my own kids. Still looks perfect thanks to the National Trusts fantastic work. Delighted to see the kids in UV tops, sensible mum!
What a great time. Mine really love rock pooling but we’ve never been lucky enough for them to find crabs – we ought to find a better location. I love the UV wetsuits they are such a good idea.
That beach looks lovely! I love a good day at the beach.
Looks wonderful, hopefully we are finally heading down your way tomorrow for Monkey’s first beach visit #CountryKids
Kara this sounds and looks like you had amazing time xx
What a lovely location! We’ve been talking about going down to the area, so I must add this beach to my list. I’ve been wrestling our pop up beach tent. I think I’ve popped the tent once too many times. Maybe time for a new one.
How great that the children could snorkel and kayak as well as just having fun the beach, thanks for sharing your beach time fun with Country Kids.
looks great fun
Looks like a great day, must put it on our list of places to visit. We usually go to Southbourne