Water Sports in Swanage and the Isle of Purbeck

Swanage and Studland bay are very popular for all water sports. Swanage bay is very busy with boats ranging from jet skis to Sunseekers using the water.

There are hire boats available and jet-ski hire from Ocean Bay.

Kayaks and pedal boats are available for hire from the main beach for a small charge.

You can launch your boats from the slipway at the boat park near Peveril and a small slipway by Playland ( The arcade near the town square). If you enjoy sailing, there is the local sailing club off the Victorian pier.

Ocean Bay Watersports offer pedalo canoe and kayak hire. jet-ski pillion rides, donut and Ringo rides. They hire sun loungers, deckchairs, windbreaks, and parasolsJet ski and boat launching via a concrete slipway (Tel 07721 938949)

Diving is also very popular around the pier, and there are many wreaks to explore in the area; more information can be found on the [w] Swanage Pier website.

Swimming

The following swimming pools are located in and around Swanage

Ulwell Cottage caravan park has a small indoor pool, tel 01929 422823

Bay View Caravan Park has a medium-sized indoor pool, tel 01929 422130

Purbeck Sports Centre at Wareham has a large indoor pool and various other sports facilities, tel 01929 556454

Windsurfing

Swanage and Studland bay are suitable for windsurfing in light conditions, but in stronger winds, the popular location of Poole Harbour is one of the best places for both windsurfing and kitesurfing along the south coast in any conditions.

There is a dedicated board sailing area in Whitley Lake at Sandbanks which is shallow and safe but dries out at low water.

It is ideal for beginners, and you can park on the road only a few feet from the water's edge.

several shops cater for both windsurfing and kitesurfing in the Poole and Bournemouth area, and some also offer gear hire and expert tuition.