Your Bournemouth Local Guide: Beaches, BBQs and Summer Fun

Summer is in full swing along the South Coast, and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole are buzzing with activity. Whether you are a local or a visitor, this Bournemouth local guide will help you make the most of the season with tips on where to enjoy a beach BBQ, what to bring, and how to soak up the sunshine responsibly.
Why Bournemouth is Perfect for Summer
Bournemouth is famous for its seven miles of golden sandy beaches, backed by charming gardens and a lively seafront. The town offers a fantastic combination of natural beauty and vibrant culture, making it a top destination for families, couples and solo travellers alike. The warm weather invites everyone to spend time outdoors, enjoying everything from watersports to seaside dining.
The beaches themselves are a major draw, with clean, soft sand and clear waters that are ideal for swimming and paddling. Lifeguards patrol the main beaches during the summer months, providing peace of mind for families and less confident swimmers. The seafront promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls, cycling or rollerblading, with plenty of cafés and ice cream kiosks to stop at along the way.
For more ideas on what to do, check out our Things to Do section, where you’ll find a full range of attractions and activities. This Bournemouth local guide is your key to discovering all the best spots and experiences.

Where to Enjoy a Beach BBQ in Bournemouth
One of the best ways to enjoy a summer day in Bournemouth is with a beach BBQ. The local council has installed electric BBQ stations at key spots along the coast to encourage eco-friendly cooking and reduce waste. These stations provide a safe, convenient alternative to traditional charcoal BBQs and help keep the beaches clean and enjoyable for everyone.
Electric BBQ Stations Locations
You can find these electric BBQs in four popular places:
- Branksome Chine, a lovely beach area in Poole with easy access and facilities including toilets and parking.
- Bournemouth Beach, east of Bournemouth Pier, near Harry Ramsden's, perfect for a classic seaside BBQ with stunning sea views.
- Boscombe Beach, east of Boscombe Pier, opposite Urban Reef, a great spot for families and groups with nearby cafés and surf shops.
- Fisherman’s Walk, between Boscombe and Southbourne, offering a quieter beach experience with colourful beach huts and a safe swimming zone.
These electric BBQ stations are designed for ease of use and safety. They run on electricity, eliminating the risks associated with open flames and hot coals. Each station has clear instructions and safety warnings to guide users. Using these BBQs helps keep the beaches clean and safe for everyone, reducing the risk of accidental fires and litter from disposable BBQs.
Before you visit, it’s worth reading the official guidelines on how to use the electric BBQs to ensure a smooth and safe experience. This Bournemouth local guide recommends planning ahead to make the most of these facilities.
Rules for Disposable BBQs
If you prefer to bring your own disposable BBQ, please note that they are only permitted between 6pm and 10:30pm. This timing helps protect other beach visitors and reduces fire risk during busy daylight hours. Disposable BBQs must be used responsibly, with all ashes and waste taken away afterwards to prevent litter and damage to the beach environment.
It is important to always check local restrictions before lighting any BBQ, as rules can change depending on weather conditions and fire risk levels. The council and beach rangers may impose temporary bans during dry spells to protect the coastline.
What to Bring for the Perfect Beach BBQ
Preparing well means you can relax and enjoy your day by the sea. Here are five essentials to pack for your Bournemouth beach BBQ, as advised by this Bournemouth local guide:
- BBQ Equipment
If you’re using a disposable coal BBQ, bring it along with you. Alternatively, use one of the electric BBQ stations provided on the beach. Remember to bring charcoal and lighter fluid if needed, and a fireproof container for disposing of ashes safely.
- Comfortable Seating
A beach towel, picnic blanket or deck chairs will make your spot cosy and inviting. Consider bringing a windbreak to shield you from sea breezes, especially in the evening.
- Utensils and Tableware
Don’t forget BBQ utensils, reusable plates, napkins and cutlery. These small items make a big difference in convenience and waste reduction. Using reusable or biodegradable items helps keep the beach litter-free and protects local wildlife.
- Entertainment
Bring along some beach games to keep everyone entertained after the food is gone. A football, frisbee or playing cards are all great choices. Bournemouth’s beaches also offer plenty of space for kite flying, sandcastle building and paddleboarding.
- Drinks and Cooling
Stay hydrated with plenty of drinks. A cool box is helpful to keep beverages chilled on warm days. Don’t forget sunscreen, hats and sunglasses to protect against the strong summer sun.
For more family-friendly ideas, our Family Fun page offers great tips on activities and places to visit.
Staying Safe and Respecting the Environment
Bournemouth’s beaches are patrolled by the RNLI lifeguards during the summer months, ensuring a safe environment for swimmers and beachgoers. Always follow safety advice and swim between the flags, which mark the safest areas free from hazards such as strong currents or rocks.
If you are planning to enjoy watersports like paddleboarding or kayaking, make sure you have the right equipment and know the local safety guidelines. Many watersports schools operate along Bournemouth and Boscombe beaches, offering lessons and equipment hire.
To keep the beaches beautiful, please take your rubbish home or use the bins provided. Using reusable plates and cutlery at BBQs helps reduce litter and plastic waste. Avoid leaving any food scraps behind as these can attract seagulls and other wildlife, disrupting the natural ecosystem.
Bournemouth’s seafront rangers regularly patrol the beaches to help keep them safe and clean, and they appreciate visitors who respect the environment and local rules.
For official beach safety information, visit the RNLI website.
Discover More Bournemouth Attractions and Dining
Beyond the beach, Bournemouth offers a wealth of attractions, gardens and dining options. Take a stroll along the iconic Bournemouth Pier, where you can enjoy panoramic sea views and visit the amusements and cafés. The pier is a great place for a family day out or a romantic sunset walk.
Explore the lush Bournemouth Gardens, a series of interconnected parks in the town centre featuring floral displays, fountains and a charming bandstand. The gardens are perfect for a picnic or a peaceful break from the bustling seafront.
For family-friendly fun, the Oceanarium offers fascinating marine life exhibits and interactive displays that delight children and adults alike.
When hunger strikes, you’ll find everything from casual cafés to fine dining. Explore our Food & Drink section for the latest on restaurants, pubs and cafés across town. Whether you crave fresh seafood by the sea, traditional fish and chips, or international cuisine, Bournemouth’s dining scene has something for everyone.
This Bournemouth local guide encourages you to explore beyond the beach for a full taste of what the area has to offer.
Connect with Bournemouth Online
Stay updated with the latest events, news and local highlights by following Bournemouth’s official social media channels. The Love Bournemouth - Official Tourism Board Instagram shares stunning photos, event announcements and insider tips.
Follow us on Instagram @bournemouth_official
Plan Your Visit with Confidence
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, Bournemouth welcomes you with open arms and plenty to explore. For travel advice, accommodation options and seasonal tips, visit our Visitor Information and Where to Stay pages.
Bournemouth is well connected by road, rail and air, making it easy to reach from across the UK and beyond. The town’s transport links include frequent trains to London and other major cities, as well as a local airport with flights to popular destinations.
Enjoy the sunshine, the sea and the sizzling BBQs this summer in Bournemouth! This Bournemouth local guide wishes you a fantastic season filled with memorable moments.
For more inspiration on things to do, see our full Things to Do guide, and for the best spots to relax by the water, visit our Beaches page. This Bournemouth local guide is here to help you every step of the way.