Christchurch Bay, nestled within the picturesque New Forest, boasts a stunning shoreline of sand and shingle, perfect for sun-kissed beach days. With an excellent water quality rating, as tested by the Environment Agency, you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. During the summer months, the water temperature typically ranges from 17°C to 19°C, making it an ideal spot for swimming and water activities.
Hand-picked holiday cottages & coastal retreats near Christchurch Bay (New Forest) & surrounds
Dorset Hideaways
From £943
A stylish, contemporary property with generous accommodation, a large garden and ample parking, ideal for families. Kittiwake is well-situated within walking distance of the bea...
Dorset Hideaways
From £1,130
This beautifully presented spacious, light and airy detached house, with four bedrooms, four bath/shower rooms occupying a stunning position directly on the sea front in Southbo...
Rural Retreats
From £1,130
This beautifully presented spacious, light and airy detached house, with four bedrooms, four bath/shower rooms occupying a stunning position directly on the sea front in Southbo...
Rural Retreats
From £943
A stylish, contemporary property with generous accommodation, a large garden and ample parking, ideal for families. Kittiwake is well-situated within walking distance of the bea...
Rural Retreats
From £1,040
Casa Honeybourne is a truly impressive holiday home, with well-appointed accommodation, an enclosed garden with dining terrace, and a secluded hot tub. Ideally situated within w...
Dorset Hideaways
From £1,040
Casa Honeybourne is a truly impressive holiday home, with well-appointed accommodation, an enclosed garden with dining terrace, and a secluded hot tub. Ideally situated within w...
Rural Retreats
From £726
Tucked away within the peaceful surroundings of Home Farm in Hamptworth, Willow Brook offers a delightful rural retreat on the edge of the New Forest. One of five beautifully co...
Rural Retreats
From £726
Tucked away in the tranquil surroundings of Home Farm in Hamptworth, Foxglove Cottage offers a charming countryside escape on the edge of the enchanting New Forest. One of five ...
The shoreline consists primarily of sand, shingle. Sediment type dictates underfoot comfort, wave energy absorption, and the water's clarity when currents stir up the seabed.
Water quality is classified as excellent, meeting the highest cleanliness standards. Bacterial counts (E. coli & Intestinal Enterococci) are consistently low, posing negligible health risks.
This bathing water is generally resilient and has a low risk of quality degradation after heavy summer storm events.
Tested weekly by the Environment Agency England for bacteria levels (E. coli & Intestinal Enterococci) between May and September.
Monitored as a coastal beach. Coastal beaches are subject to tidal flows and marine dilution, whereas inland lakes/rivers suffer from low water circulation, meaning bacteria can linger longer.
Southern Water Services Limited is the regional utility responsible for waste water treatment, sewage infrastructure, and storm overflow management in this catchment area.
Officially designated as a protected bathing water site in 1988. This designation mandates regular public health monitoring.
Governed under local district sanitation and environmental safety regulations in the New Forest area.