Explore Things to Do in Studland
Explore Studland: Dunes, Sandy Beaches and Stunning Scenery
Studland has always felt like an escape to us. It’s somewhere we’ve returned to year after year. First with buckets and spades, later with kayaks thrown in the van, and still now whenever we want a stretch of coast that feels open and unspoilt.
The beach is the obvious draw. Wide, sandy and backed by dunes, with shallow water that makes it one of the most family-friendly beaches in Dorset. Our children would spend hours digging holes in the sand or paddling at the shoreline. On hot days they’d keep one eye out for the little ice cream boat that comes close to shore in summer, dragging us behind them as soon as it appeared.
Things To Do
From Knoll Beach, you can hire paddleboards and kayaks. On calmer days, we try to paddle out towards Old Harry Rocks every summer. It takes time and steady conditions, but to see the rocks up close and personal is so worth it. There’s also a little sea basin, by the rocks, which, when calm, you can jump in and float, although we’d only advise this when wearing your life jacket. Do note that Studland also has a naturist beach, halfway between Knoll beach and Shell Bay.
Beyond the beach, Studland has more depth than many expect. Heathland walks, birdlife, WWII history, horse riding across the open landscape, and some excellent places to eat. From Joe’s Café and Knoll Beach Café for something easy, to Shell Bay Restaurant near the ferry, or The Pig on the Beach for something more refined.
Exploring Studland: Two of Our Favourite Walks
Throughout the year, we must walk in Studland over a dozen times. One of our go-to circular walks starts at the Bankes Arms. From there, you climb gently onto the cliffs, with panoramic views stretching down towards Swanage, taking in Brownsea Island, Poole, and the coastline. From above Old Harry Rocks, the route loops back towards the pub, giving you that sweeping sense of sea, sky, and open space that makes this part of Dorset so distinctive. It’s a walk we return to often — especially on bright, breezy days when the views feel endless.
A completely different experience is the walk to Agglestone Rock. This dramatic sandstone formation sits inland on the heath, rising unexpectedly from the landscape. The route feels wilder and more remote, with wide views across Poole Harbour and towards the Purbeck Hills.
Frequently Asked Questions
The beach is the starting point. The shallow water and soft sand make it ideal for children, and Knoll Beach has facilities and seasonal lifeguards. Paddleboard and kayak hire are popular in summer, and the dunes give younger visitors plenty of space to roam safely. It’s one of Dorset’s easiest beaches for a full family day without needing to move the car
Yes, and they’re better than many expect for a small coastal village. Joe’s Café and Knoll Beach Café are relaxed favourites close to the beach. The Bankes Arms serves pub food with sea views. Shell Bay Restaurant, near the Sandbanks ferry, is known for seafood and harbour views. For something more formal, The Pig on the Beach sits just above Studland, with stunning coastal views.
Most of the main car parks, including Knoll Beach and Shell Bay, are managed by the National Trust. National Trust members can park for free with a valid pass. In summer, they fill quickly, so arriving earlier in the day makes a difference.
Walking the South West Coast Path, exploring the dunes, birdwatching on Studland Heath and visiting Old Harry Rocks are all free. Much of Studland’s appeal lies in being outdoors. Beach walks, coastal views and open heathland cost nothing at all.
Curated experiences
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