Boscombe, near Bournemouth, provides one of the few decent surfing spots in that area. With a swell and strong winds it can produce surprisingly good conditions.
- Beach Faces:
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South
- Best Wind Direction:
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South-west or West
- Best Wind Direction For Waves:
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Strong South-west winds turning West to produce side shore conditions.
- Not Good:
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Southerly
- Tide:
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Not much tidal movement due to the new sand laid on by the Council! Best on flooding low tide for waves.
- What’s On The Bottom:
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Sand
- Any Hazards:
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Sailing close to the pier is not advisable.
- Other Water Users:
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Surfers, bodyboarders, canoeists, swimmers in the summer.
- Suitability / Levels:
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Advanced when windy because there is a rip.
- Wipeout Factor:
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Not particularly high; what you would associate with a south coast spot. There is a bit of a shorebreak though.
- Instruction:
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Nearest is from the various shops at Poole Harbour around the corner. See Sandbanks beach guide
- Kit Hire:
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As above
- Friendly Factor:
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Not many people sail here even when it’s good. You will argue more with surfers!
- No Wind Alternatives:
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Not many people sail here even when it’s good. You will argue more with surfers!
Facilities:
| Toilets |
Yes, on the promenade. |
|---|---|
| Shower |
Yes, outside one on the beach. |
| Windsurfing Shop |
Surf shop on the hill up from the beach. The nearest windsurfing shop is Spot On Water in Mudeford. |
| Food |
There is a pub on the beach and some beach food bars. There is planned development for much more. |
| Parking |
Right next to the beach, but at a cost depending on the season. £6.50 for the day!! Just up the hill there is a car park for 40p an hourly. |
| Pub |
Brewers Fayre pub right on the beach. Lovely! |
- Accommodation:
-
It’s a popular coastal resort so there is plenty of accommodation.
- Local Hotshots:
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Mark Warren, James Cox, Chris Audsley, Matt Wemms, Gregg Dunnett and many others.
- Extra:
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If the swell is not quite right for waves at Boscombe then drive 2 miles west to Southbourne which picks up more swell. However, it will be more onshore if the wind is South-west.
- How To Get There:
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Take the M27, then A31, then A338 from Southampton to Bournemouth if coming from the North or East. If coming from the West take the A35, then A3049 towards Bournemouth. When nearing Bournemouth there are many signs to Boscombe. Follow these signs then the ones to Boscombe Pier which will direct you to the spot. Sailing is generally to the right of the pier.
- Report By:
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Clyde Waite
