Avon Beach

Cars pull right up to the sand here, which tells you everything about this beach's easy-going nature. Avon Beach stretches along the Hampshire-Dorset border just east of Christchurch, where the River Avon meets the sea through a gap in the low cliffs.

The main draw is convenience rather than spectacular scenery. Families with young children will appreciate the gentle slope into the water and the fact you can park practically on the beach itself - no trudging across dunes with bags and buggies. The sand is decent enough, though it gets busy on summer weekends when half of Bournemouth seems to decamp here.

Walking enthusiasts might find it a bit tame, but it's a proper working beach where locals actually swim rather than just pose for photos. The eastern end near the river mouth is quieter and better for spotting wading birds.

From Sandhills Holiday Park, you're literally a minute's walk away, making this an obvious choice for a morning paddle or evening stroll. Hoburne Park and Hoburne Naish are also well-placed for beach days without the car journey. Just don't expect dramatic coastal drama - this is more about easy seaside pleasures than Instagram-worthy vistas.