Sandbanks Beach in Dorset has been named the best beach in the UK, according to a new ranking by Skyscanner, beating long-favoured spots in Devon and Cornwall. The beach, known for its crystal-clear blue waters, award-winning Blue Flag status, and famed 'millionaires row', topped The Paradise Guide.
Why Sandbanks topped the ranking
The ranking analysed beaches across the UK for factors such as average air and sea temperatures and reviews. Sandbanks was praised for its 'high standards of water quality', sweeping golden beach, and being one of the easiest UK shores to reach, earning an overall rating of 4.6.
Skyscanner commented: "Sandbanks Beach is a favourite on Dorset's coastline, with a long, gently sloping stretch of sand that's ideal for families, swimming and watersports. Overlooking Poole Bay, it has held Blue Flag status for many years thanks to its high standards of water quality and facilities. Sandbanks is also one of the easiest beaches to reach in the UK, situated just 25 minutes from Bournemouth Airport."
A 35-year Blue Flag streak
Sandbanks has held its Blue Flag award for 35 consecutive years, the longest run of any beach in the UK. Its unspoilt, golden-sandy shores are noted for cleanliness and safety, along with crystal-clear shallow waters. The beach has an average peak-season temperature of 20.8°C and a Tripadvisor rating of 4.6.
Situated on an exclusive peninsula, four miles west of Bournemouth and 2.5 miles southeast of Poole town centre, Sandbanks has earned the nickname 'millionaires' row' due to its luxurious seafront properties. Multi-million-pound mansions, apartments, and private gated homes line the shore, earning it the moniker 'Britain's Palm Beach'.
Visitor reactions and celebrity appeal
The area has attracted celebrities seeking a quieter coastal retreat, including Liam Gallagher, Harry Redknapp, Celia Sawyer, and Karl Pilkington. It is also a popular watersports hub for paddleboarding, windsurfing, and sailing.
One visitor on TripAdvisor hailed Sandbanks beach as "absolutely beautiful", while another said, "It has got to be one of the nicest beaches," noting that the "water was a nice temperature". Another reviewer declared: "One of the best beaches on the Dorset coast. The fine gold sand is clean, and the shallow, tranquil waters are ideal for enjoying a relaxing dip. When the weather is warm and sunny, the beach is a match for any beach the Mediterranean has to offer."
