7 of our favourite things to do in Bournemouth for kids

Family holidays can be hard work for parents, with the main worry being ‘how on earth do we keep the kids occupied for a week?!’ In popular tourist destinations, it can be a lot easier than you think! Dorset is a huge hit with families looking for a holiday in the sunshine. There is no shortage of fun attractions and activities for family members of all ages. Here, we’ve chosen 7 of our favourite things to do in Bournemouth for kids, one for each day of the week!

1. The Pier

The kids will find a lot of amusement on Bournemouth Pier (pictured above). It’s a highly popular place to visit, attracting over half a million people every year! The structure gives great views along the coastline, and houses an amusement arcade where kids can have a go on the penny slot machines. Take the weight off your feet on one of the many benches while enjoying an ice cream! At the end of the pier sits the Pavilion Theatre, where you can see one of many family shows. Check the website to see what show will be performing the week of your visit.

2. Oceanarium

The Oceanarium houses many varieties of fish and other animals such as sharks, turtles and otters! Wander through the tunnel under the great barrier reef and see the snapping piranhas in the Amazon section. There’s guaranteed to be something for all the family to enjoy here! There are nine daily talks and feeding sessions in different sections of the Oceanarium, plus extra events at the weekend. You can buy tickets online in advance to get a decent discount on admission prices. It’s worth seeing if a family ticket will suit your needs, as this will save you even more on the admission price.

3. Garden balloon ride

To unwind, take a stroll through the Lower Gardens, opposite the pier. This is also where you can find the Bournemouth Balloon. This large balloon gently rises to float 500 feet above the gardens. You get a stunning view over the scenic Dorset coast and can see for miles out to sea. The balloon is suitable for almost everyone. There is easy access and they allow for lightweight wheelchairs. Bournemouth Ballons are open from 10am to 11pm between March and October, with shorter days during the winter months.

4. Adventure Wonderland

A short drive away from central Bournemouth is the Adventure Wonderland. Your family can enjoy over 30 rides and attractions, plus the park runs special events and character appearances. The full park is open from March to September. Visit their website for current prices and to find out about seasonal events around the time of your holiday. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for special offers.

5. Splashdown Water Park

Less than 15 minutes’ drive away from downtown Bournemouth is Splashdown Water Park. There is something for the whole family, from starter flumes and a toddler pool for the young ones right up to daredevil vertical drop for the hardened thrill seekers! The park is open all year round with indoor rides for those holidaying in Bournemouth in the winter.

6. Surfing

Bournemouth is a great place for complete beginners to take to the seas with a choice of surfing schools. Located between Bournemouth and Boscombe is Surfsteps Surf School where you can enjoy lessons in surfing or paddle boarding. They also have the option of equipment hire, so there’s no excuse for Mum and Dad not to dive in the surf with the kids!

7. The Beach!

Last but most definitely not least, families will adore the 7 miles of award-winning sandy beach. Lay in the sun or build a sand castle while making holiday memories that will last a lifetime.

So there we have it! 7 attractions and activities to keep your kids entertained during your holiday in Bournemouth. With so many fun things to do, don’t be surprised if your family wants to go back every year!

Discover Bournemouth caravan parks near the beach here, or our wider range of Bournemouth caravan parks here, along with caravan parks near Bournemouth Beach.