SANDBANKS HOTEL, Poole

Sandbanks Hotel - A 4-star beachfront retreat with water sports, family rooms, and sea-view dining

Sandbanks Hotel sits on a spit of Dorset land with direct access to the 11.5 km Blue Flag beach, ideal for swimming, windsurfing, and jogging. The 1930s-built property features rooms with satellite TV, work areas, and tea/coffee facilities, including sea-view options with balconies overlooking Sandbanks Beach or Poole Harbour. Families can choose from economy or standard family rooms, some with interconnecting bunk beds. The Seaview Restaurant serves fresh seafood, meat, and vegetarian dishes, while Amalfi Beach offers Italian cuisine, including wood-fired pizzas on the terrace. The hotel's Watersports Academy provides equipment and instruction for windsurfing, paddleboarding, and sailing. A 10-meter heated indoor pool, pirate-themed play area, and daily children's buffet cater to younger guests. Sandbanks Hotel is 20 km from Bournemouth and a short boat ride from Brownsea Island's wildlife sanctuary.

Pros

Direct beach access with water sports activities available on-site.

Family-friendly accommodations, including interconnecting bunk bed rooms.

Multiple dining options, including sea-view terrace dining with Italian cuisine.

Heated indoor pool and pirate-themed play area for children.

Cons

The lift only serves up to the 2nd floor.

Free parking operates on a first-come, first-served basis.