Where to go and what to do on a spa break in Bournemouth

A famously beautiful seaside town on the UK's south coast, Bournemouth is the home of coastal views and water sports, history, heritage, good food and abundant activity.

Things to do in Bournemouth

Bournemouth is blessed with being both a scenic destination and a cultural hotspot, buzzing with excitement and activity as well as entertainment and opportunity.

Beach breaks

Bournemouth's beaches have to be top of the list when it comes to things to do. Surrounded by majestic cliffs, the beaches seem to have their own microclimate including some of the warmest seas in the UK . Build sandcastles, paddle in the shallows, swim and surf. For easy access, some of them even have Cliff Lifts (West Cliff and Fisherman’s Walk), while others have zigzagging paths to the sand. You can even take the Land Train from Bournemouth Pier (West) to Branksome Chine or Bournemouth Pier (East) to Boscombe, and peruse the landscape for your favourite resting spot.

History and culture

Bournemouth has a rich history focused on literary inspiration and the medicinal benefits of the sea air.There's a popular museum as well as multiple galleries, performance spaces and art galleries, all waiting to be explored. It's even the resting place of famous novelist, Mary Shelley.

Ocean exploration

Given its seaside location it's little wonder that the ocean and its wildlife is such a popular source of inspiration in Bournemouth. As well as the natural beauty you see on walks and outdoor exploration, their oceanarium is complete with penguin enclosure and an abundance of knowledge about marine life - perfect for family days out.

Go green

Outdoor living is what life by the sea is all about and whether you're on or off the sand, Bournemouth has places to go and things to see. As well as 14 beaches listed in and around the town, Bournemouth has 2,000 acres of parks and gardens including golf courses, a tropical paradise and a nature reserve.

Activity and adventure

For rainy days and those with an adrenaline addiction, there's plenty of activity to enjoy as well. From indoor climbing to high wires, as well as all manner of adventure sports at the end of Bournemouth Pier (which in itself is a top attraction).

Bournemouth spa hotels to stay in

A beautiful place to visit needs wonderful places to stay and Bournemouth's hotel spas deliver on true holiday vibes.

Rise Fitness and Wellbeing at Hilton Bournemouth

This statement hotel has style in abundance with the added benefit of a location only steps away from beautiful Bournemouth Gardens. The hotel’s spa and health club has a gym with fitness classes, or you can take a dip in the pool for a workout, however the hot tub, sauna and steam room are all relaxing alternatives. Choose from a menu of luxury spa treatments, which include facials and massages and are just the thing for some proper pampering.

The Nici

A one of a kind destination, The Nici brings Miami Beach vibes to Bournemouth. Situated on the West Cliff, this luxury hotel is chic and fun through and through. Sleep in rooms with sea views, dine on everything from wholesome salads to local seafood, and sip on late-night cocktails in The South Beach Restaurant & Bar. Spend your day lounging by the outdoor pool or enjoying THE NICI Spa facilities, and relax with an award-winning OTO CBD spa treatment or two.

Queens Hotel & Spa

A stylish four-star hotel, Queens Hotel & Spa has Art Deco inspired interiors and an innate sense of glamour. Perfect for couples, friends, families and those seeking a little bit of me-time, stay in stylish rooms and suites and dine in the 1920s-inspired Green Room. For fitness and family swimming, the hotel's leisure club has everything from a sauna and spa pool to a children’s paddling pool and gym. For total tranquility however, head to The Queen's Spa - an adult-only space for spa treatments and time out in the relaxation lounge.

Bluewater Spa at The Connaught Hotel Bournemouth

The Connaught Hotel and Spa is a boutique destination on Bournemouth’s West Cliff, idyllically located just a few minutes from dreamy sandy beaches as well as being conveniently close to Bournemouth town centre. The four-star destination invites you to stay in modern rooms and suites, and dine in the AA Rosette-awarded Connaught Brasserie. Alongside time spent strolling along the sands nearby, rest and relax in the Bluewater Spa - a mobile phone-free zone complete with a pool, Jacuzzi, gym, steam room and sauna. There are also four treatment rooms, including two couples' suites, for restful therapies using blends of Mediterranean essential oils.