Your Ultimate Summer Stay In Bournemouth

If you’re planning a Bournemouth summer holiday, you’re in for an unforgettable escape by the sea. With golden beaches, buzzing events, and a coastline for adventure and relaxation, summer in Bournemouth offers everything you need to soak up the season. Whether travelling as a couple, a family, or with friends, there’s no shortage of ways to unwind, explore, and make memories on the South Coast. And with its central location and warm, welcoming atmosphere, Hotel Collingwood is the ideal base to enjoy it all.

Discover the best beaches in Bournemouth.

Bournemouth is home to some of the UK’s most beloved beaches; summer is when they truly shine. The main stretch of Bournemouth Beach offers soft golden sand, Blue Flag waters, and easy access to the iconic pier, beachfront bars, and paddleboarding spots.

For something a little more relaxed, you’ll find quieter stretches at Durley Chine, Alum Chine, and Southbourne, ideal for family beach days or a peaceful afternoon by the sea. And for a wilder, more scenic escape, Studland Beach is just a short drive or ferry ride away, surrounded by heathland and natural beauty.

Want more inspiration for coastal days out? Look at our guide to things to do with kids in Bournemouth and the surrounding areas, including our favourite beaches and family-friendly spots.

Watch the skies light up in Bournemouth this summer

Few things capture the spirit of summer in Bournemouth like fireworks lighting up the seafront. Every Friday evening throughout August, you can watch the sky come alive with colour as fireworks are launched from Bournemouth Pier, a tradition loved by visitors and locals alike.

Displays usually start around 10 pm, giving you time to enjoy dinner, a stroll along the beach, or drinks on the hotel terrace before the show begins. Whether you watch from the sand or the promenade, it’s a magical way to round off your day.

These displays are a highlight of the Bournemouth events calendar and a perfect addition to your Bournemouth summer holiday. 

Wellness by the waves: beach saunas and slow living

Summer in Bournemouth isn’t just about sunshine and seafront fun, it’s also the perfect time to slow down and recharge. Whether walking barefoot along the sand or swimming in the early morning light, being by the coast has a way of restoring your energy.

Just a short trip from Bournemouth, you’ll find some of Dorset’s most scenic outdoor saunas. In Sandbanks, the Saltwater Sauna offers a traditional wood-fired experience with panoramic sea views. Across the bay in Studland, The Sauna Hut provides a cosy, beachside retreat, ideal for a peaceful sweat session followed by a refreshing sea dip.

Back at the hotel, you can continue your wellness journey in the comfort of Eden Spa, whether it's a facial or a full-body massage, our therapists are guaranteed to help you unwind. Our fully heated indoor swimming pool features a cascading water curtain and overlooks the Secret Garden, where an ancient olive tree takes centre stage like a living work of art. Unwind in the jacuzzi pool with massage jets to ease tension, or step into the classic sauna to boost circulation and detox naturally. To finish, enjoy the refreshing calm of our rainfall showers, designed to give the soothing sensation of standing in the rain.

Whether you’re seeking total relaxation or a quiet moment between beach days, wellness is always within reach during your Bournemouth summer holiday. 

What’s on: must-see Bournemouth events this summer

From live music and festivals to vibrant community celebrations, the Bournemouth events calendar is packed with reasons to visit during the warmer months. Whether you're planning a weekend break or a longer escape, there’s always something happening to enhance your Bournemouth summer holiday.

One of the standout events of the season is Bourne Free, Bournemouth’s annual LGBTQ+ Pride celebration. This colourful weekend features a joyful parade, live performances, community stalls, and a welcoming atmosphere that brings the town to life.

For music lovers, the Bournemouth Reggae Weekender is a must. Held in Kings Park, this vibrant festival celebrates Caribbean music, culture, food, and unity across three rhythm-filled days. Expect a line-up of live acts, DJs, food vendors, and family-friendly fun.

Poole Harbour Festival also returns from 25th–27th July 2025, just a short journey from Bournemouth. Known as the region’s biggest and best family and live music festival, it features multiple stages, funfair rides, street food, and entertainment for all ages.

For a more classical evening, don’t miss the Meyrick Proms, an outdoor concert hosted in Meyrick Park. Scheduled for Saturday 19th July 2025, it features the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra performing popular pieces in a relaxed, picnic-style setting under the summer sky.

For big-name shows and unmissable performances, check what’s on at the Bournemouth Pavilion and the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC). These landmark venues host everything from touring West End productions and stand-up comedy to live concerts, tribute acts, and family shows, many just a short stroll from Hotel Collingwood.

And if food is your thing, Dorset hosts a variety of local food and drink festivals throughout the summer, from seafood showcases to street food celebrations. Discover what’s on by exploring the full Dorset foodie events guide.

If you’re after a more exclusive beach party vibe, SandFest is not to be missed. Held on Sandbanks Beach, this boutique beach festival brings international DJs and live acts to one of the UK’s most scenic coastal spots, with VIP lounges, bars, and a sun-soaked crowd.

To explore even more seasonal highlights, from outdoor theatre to artisan markets, visit the full Bournemouth events calendar and plan your trip around the experiences that matter most to you.

Choosing Hotel Collingwood for your Bournemouth summer holiday.

With everything Bournemouth offers in the summer, including beaches, events, coastal walks, and vibrant nightlife, where you stay can make all the difference. At Hotel Collingwood, you’ll be perfectly placed to enjoy it all. Just minutes from the seafront and Bournemouth Pier, and within walking distance of the town centre and Lower Gardens, our boutique hotel makes exploring effortless.

Enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine in the stylish Bubble Lounge, and experience the best of the West Dorset countryside with Furleigh Estate wines. We invite you to explore our collection of still and sparkling wine from the Jurassic Coast. Or try Piddle Beer, crafted beside the River Piddle in deepest Dorset, for people who take beer seriously (but not life).

Dining at Hotel Collingwood is a highlight in itself. Indulge in locally inspired dishes in the elegant Gold Room, or take afternoon tea in the charming Tea Lounge. On sunny days, there’s no better place to relax than The Secret Garden, a peaceful outdoor spot for al fresco drinks or a quiet moment surrounded by greenery.

What sets Hotel Collingwood apart is our personal touch. As an independent boutique hotel, we pride ourselves on offering a warm welcome and thoughtful service from the moment you arrive. Whether it’s helping you plan your day, recommending hidden gems around Bournemouth, or simply making sure you have everything you need, we’re here to make your stay as easy and enjoyable as possible.

Convenience is key when you’re on holiday, and Hotel Collingwood makes it easy. When you book direct, we offer free on-site parking, so you can leave the car behind and explore Bournemouth on foot. With the beach, gardens, shops, theatres and restaurants all just a short walk away, everything you need is right on your doorstep.

Planning a family break? We cater to guests of all ages, offering family-friendly rooms and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy for everyone to relax together. From spacious lounges to the Eden Spa, featuring a heated swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, sauna, treatment rooms, and a commitment to guest wellbeing. Additionally, the Secret Garden offers a tranquil alfresco dining experience beneath a 200-year-old olive tree, creating an unforgettable setting steeped in natural charm.

We are proud holders of the REST Silver Accreditation, reflecting our commitment to being Responsible, Ethical, and Sustainable. We champion local sourcing, inclusive employment, and waste reduction initiatives, while actively encouraging responsible visitor behaviour, such as using public transport, respecting natural spaces and supporting local producers and artisans.

Nearby attractions, such as the beach, pier, and Oceanarium, make Hotel Collingwood an excellent base for summer adventures with the kids. We’re also dog friendly, with dedicated dog-friendly rooms and a welcome pet pack for every four-legged guest, so no one gets left behind on your Bournemouth summer holiday.

Book your summer escape to Bournemouth today.

Whether chasing sunsets by the sea, planning a weekend of music and culture, or simply craving time to relax and recharge, Hotel Collingwood is your perfect base for a Bournemouth summer holiday. With stylish rooms, locally inspired dining, and a location that puts you close to everything, we’re here to help you make the most of the season.

Book direct today for the best rates, flexible booking options, and exclusive guest perks. Your summer by the coast starts here.