With its safe, shallow water and slightly more rugged feel, South Beach is a natural haven away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Quieter than nearby Knoll Beach (the main and most popular of Studland Bay‘s four beaches), South Beach is also a great base for exploring Studland village and a good place to set off from if you’re doing the Old Harry Rocks cliff walk.
Directions and parking tariffs
How to get to South Beach car park
Postcode for your SatNav: BH19 3AU
Situated on Manor Road, just off the main road in Studland, South Beach is easily accessible from Swanage, Wareham, Poole and Bournemouth.
South Beach itself is a short, signposted walk down a gentle track near the car park.
From Swanage, Corfe and Wareham
Leave the B3351 at the turning for Studland Stores, down School Lane and then onto Watery Lane, where the road curves around to the left onto Manor Road.
South Beach car park will be on your left, just past The Bankes Arms pub.
From Poole and Bournemouth via chain ferry
After a four-minute crossing on the Sandbanks Ferry, follow Ferry Road until you reach the village of Studland.
Turn left just after the riding stables onto Beach Road, and then immediately right onto Rectory Lane. Turn right into Manor Road, where the car park will be on your right, next to The Bankes Arms.
Parking prices
National Trust members may park for free – just scan your membership card at the machine.
Parking prices vary seasonally, but in peak seasons the minimum is £4 for two hours. Charges apply every day from dawn until dusk.
Current prices for spring (correct as of April 2021) are as follows:
- Cars – £3 for up to two hours, or £5 for the day
- Campervans – £4 for two hours; £6 all day
- Coaches – £14 for four hours or £20 for the day
South Beach car park is open from 9am – 11pm daily.
Note that payment options are limited to coins and the Pay-by-Phone parking app.
