Visit Studland, Dorset
Studland feels like a world of its own — four miles of sandy beach, calm, shallow water, and open heathland stretching behind it.
Managed by the National Trust, this coastline lies between Swanage and the Sandbanks ferry and offers some of the calmest swimming conditions in Dorset and is ideal for children building confidence in the sea. Ours spent years paddling here before graduating to paddleboards and kayaks. Some of our happiest family days have been spent at Knoll Beach, followed by cake or ice cream from the café.
Studland also has a fascinating history. During the Second World War, the bay was used to rehearse the D-Day landings, with Churchill himself observing the exercises from the shoreline.
Although we don’t currently have holiday accommodation in Studland, we know it well and return there often.
Discover Things to See & Do in Dorset
Whether you’re seeking rugged coastal walks, charming market towns, or the freshest seafood the south coast has to offer, our guide to Dorset has everything you need, from the best places to eat and drink, to unmissable attractions and outdoor adventures to make the most of your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
There’s far more here than just the beach. Walk to Old Harry Rocks from the cliff path, explore 75 acres of heathland and dunes, or cycle from the Sandbanks ferry to the beach — and, for the more adventurous, on to Swanage.
Kayaks and paddleboards can be hired in season, and paddling from Knoll Beach to Old Harry Rocks is one of our favourite summer rituals. Seeing the chalk stacks from the water feels completely different.
Horse riding is also available locally which is a lovely way to explore the heathland and enjoy views across to Brownsea Island and Poole Harbour.
Seasonal restrictions apply to central sections between 1 May and 30 September. However, Shell Bay, at the Sandbanks ferry end, allows dogs year-round. It’s always worth checking local signage before visiting. The Bankes Arms pub is also dog-friendly.
Studland may be small, but it’s well served. The Bankes Arms sits above the bay, with a beer garden overlooking the water and views towards Bournemouth and, on clear days, towards the Isle of Wight. Knoll Beach Café is ideal for a simple bite after a swim. On South Beach, Joe’s Café is another relaxed beachside stop. A more recent and very welcome addition is The Sandy Salt Pig at Middle Beach, serving good coffee and beach snacks from the car park above the bay.
For something more refined, The Pig on the Beach offers locally sourced food. We’ve eaten both in the conservatory and outside on the terrace, where lighter dishes like pizza are served with wide coastal views. Shell Bay Restaurant, just before the Sandbanks ferry, is also one of our long-standing favourites particularly at sunset, when the light falls behind Brownsea Island.
Yes. There are parks at Shell Bay, Knoll Beach, Middle Beach and the Bankes Arms, all managed by the National Trust.
A practical tip: avoid roadside parking, especially near the heathland. During busy summer periods, wardens patrol regularly, and fines are handed out. In peak season, arriving early is the simplest way to avoid frustration. There are occasional overflow field car parks, but they’re limited.