How to Spend a Summery Weekend in Bournemouth

Why Bournemouth?

Bournemouth has it all – miles of sandy beaches which have been recently voted the best in the UK, stunning gardens filled with summer time events and great shops, restaurants and bars.

The top places to eat

Natural Bourne Grillers is a popular local steakhouse, serving quality food at great prices. It even has a BYO policy for those on a budget. If you’re in Bournemouth for a fun-filled weekend away with the girls, head to Aruba for dinner and cocktails. This oriental fusion bar and restaurant is right on the Bournemouth seafront, and a DJ or live music at night provides a party atmosphere - who needs Ibiza!

Dessert lovers take note - the best ice-cream in town is served up at Giggi Gelateria. This authentic, indulgent Italian gelateria is a must visit during any summer holiday to Bournemouth when the weather heats up.

Bournemouth's best beaches

A surfer at Boscome Beach @DraXus

With seven miles of coastline to choose from, visitors to Bournemouth are spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding which beach to spend their days lounging on. The Alum Chine beach has a children’s play area and paddling pool so families love it, while surfers flock to Boscombe beach.

For afternoon cocktails combined with sunbathing, stick to Bournemouth Central beach, which is close to beachfront bars such as Aruba or Hot Rocks. Check out our guide to a day out at Bournemouth beach for some beachy inspiration when you're planning your trip. 

Where to go at night 

Bournemouth sunset @K J Payne 

Make the most of your beachside surroundings and spend your nights outdoors where you can. Bournemouth has a decent selection of bars with beer gardens and outdoor areas - a few worth naming are Aruba (as mentioned above) and Hot Rocks for seaside cocktails and the classy Klute Lounge, which has a great roof terrace.

Shop 'til you drop!

‘The Village’ is the Westbourne area of Bournemouth, full of boutiques, antiques shops and nice little cafes and restaurants. It’s a great spot to spend a few hours during your Bournemouth holiday just wandering around.

The main Southbourne Grove shopping centre is close to Southbourne beach, so during your Bournemouth holiday why not plan some beach time in the morning and shopping after lunch! If you are not up for shopping, and it's a rainy day make sure you read our guide on what to do in Bournemouth when it's raining.

Where to stay

During your short Bournemouth holiday, ensure you book accommodation as close to the beach as you can. If you’re in town for a romantic getaway or a girly weekend, treat yourselves and check into The Balincourt.

This luxurious, 5 star award-winning guest house is for adults only, and is just a short walk from the beach. Couples looking for an excuse to cosy down will love the king-sized bed in the superior double room, available for just £80 per night.

The Denewood Hotel, meanwhile, is a great choice for families looking at Bournemouth breaks – also walking distance to the beach, it offers family rooms at affordable prices.

A stylish family room which sleeps 3, complete with a fridge for storing snacks and facilities including a TV, DVD player and Wi-Fi access, is available for £70 per night. 

Be sure to check out our Bournemouth B&Bs page for even more great guest house options in this seaside town.

Cover image of Boscombe Beach @bin 53 shiraz on Flickr