Bournemouth isn’t just about a long stretch of sandy beach and lively piers; it’s a place where you can find some truly memorable tours that showcase the area’s natural beauty, history, and fun activities. Whether you’re craving a scenic drive along the Jurassic Coast or an adrenaline rush zip-lining over the sea, Bournemouth offers a variety of options to suit different tastes and interests. We particularly love the Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door Trip for its stunning scenery and flexible pacing—perfect for those who want to explore at their own speed while soaking in UNESCO World Heritage Site views.
Bournemouth’s tours stand out because they combine natural beauty with informative guides and accessible logistics. For families, the Oceanarium offers a delightful underwater adventure, while thrill-seekers can challenge themselves on the PierZip. If you’re short on time but want a quick overview of Bournemouth’s highlights, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus makes getting around easy and fun. Now, let’s explore each of these experiences in detail so you can pick the best fit for your trip.
1. From Bournemouth: Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door Trip
At number one on our list, this trip is a fantastic way to see the iconic Jurassic Coast without worrying about driving. The 6-hour tour covers the best scenery with plenty of free time to explore on your own. Starting at Bournemouth Coach Station, you’ll travel along scenic drives through Sandbanks, Poole, and West Overcliff Drive, giving a glimpse of the area’s diverse landscapes.
The highlight is your visit to Durdle Door, where the natural limestone arch rises dramatically from the sea. You can walk along the SW coastal path for about 35 minutes, soaking up spectacular views. Afterward, you’ll have free time at Lulworth Cove to enjoy the shell-shaped bay and the famous Lulworth Crumple, a striking geological feature. The tour emphasizes flexibility, with free time to wander and take photos, plus insightful commentary from your guide. The reviews are glowing, especially for the knowledgeable guide Paul, who makes the experience memorable. At around $52.50, it’s a great value for a day immersed in one of England’s most photogenic coastlines.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a guided yet relaxed exploration of the Jurassic Coast’s highlights, with stunning scenery and flexible pacing.
2. From Bournemouth: Jurassic Coast & Isle of Purbeck Day Tour
For around $74, the Jurassic Coast & Isle of Purbeck Day Tour offers a comprehensive 10-hour experience that hits many of the area’s top sights. Departing from Bournemouth Pier, this tour features a mix of scenic drives, walking, and cultural sites. It begins with a ferry ride from Sandbanks to the Isle of Purbeck—a highlight for its simple charm and the fresh sea air.
Once on the island, your guide takes you to Durlston Country Park for a cliff-top walk, with stunning views over the ocean. You’ll also explore the historic Corfe Castle, with its evocative ruins and quaint village atmosphere, making for a good lunch stop. The afternoon includes visits to Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove, balancing natural beauty with heritage. Reviewers praise guide Paul’s extensive knowledge and friendly manner, making the long day easy and enjoyable. This tour suits travelers who want a full immersion into Dorset’s best spots, including a mix of walking, sightseeing, and local history.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a full, detailed day with variety—from castles to coastal walks—all at a reasonable price.
3. Bournemouth: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
If you prefer flexibility and a quick overview of Bournemouth’s urban and coastal highlights, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus is a practical choice. Valid for 1-2 days, this tour allows you to hop off at key locations like Bournemouth Pier, Poole Quay, or Westbourne, then hop back on at your convenience.
The open-top bus offers great views as you cruise past historic buildings, the boating lake at Poole Park, and lively neighborhoods. The commentary is clear and informative, helping you identify places to revisit. At just under $23, it’s a budget-friendly way to see more without the hassle of public transport or driving. Several reviews note how helpful and friendly the drivers are, making it a comfortable way to familiarize yourself with Bournemouth and surrounding towns.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want an easy, flexible way to cover the city’s highlights in a short time or over a couple of days.
4. Bournemouth Pier: PierZip Entrance Ticket
Number 4 on our list is the PierZip, a unique activity that combines scenic views with pure adrenaline. For about $34, you get entry to zip-surf over the waves from Bournemouth Pier’s tower. The experience lasts roughly 1.5 hours, and you can challenge friends or family to races on the dual zip wires.
The thrill of zipping from the tower, with the sea sprawling beneath you, is hard to beat. Many reviews mention the friendly staff and the safety measures in place, which help nervous beginners get comfortable. One reviewer said, “Really good fun. We would do it again but at £25 a ride it’s expensive,” highlighting the value for those seeking a quick adrenaline fix.
This activity is suited for thrill-seekers and families with older children (check age restrictions). The view of the seafront from above makes it worth every penny for a memorable, high-energy experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure lovers looking for a quick, exhilarating activity with stunning seaside vistas.
5. Bournemouth Oceanarium Ticket
Number five is the Oceanarium, which is a solid pick for families and marine life enthusiasts. For around $21, you gain access to exhibits featuring otters, penguins, and underwater tunnels through vibrant fish tanks. It’s a manageable visit—about a day’s worth of fun and discovery.
Reviewers appreciate how the aquarium is centrally located and offers engaging presentations and viewing areas for children. One parent commented, “My toddler really enjoyed seeing the penguins and playing on the small playground,” indicating its appeal for younger visitors. While some found the size limiting, most agree it’s a worthwhile stop, especially in bad weather.
This tour suits travelers with limited time or those traveling with kids who love animals and interactive displays. The ticket price is reasonable, making it a good addition to a day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A family-friendly, straightforward marine experience that complements a busy sightseeing itinerary.
6. Bournemouth: RockReef Indoor Clip ‘n Climb Entry Ticket
Our final pick is RockReef’s Climb, an indoor climbing adventure suited for active travelers. For about $24, you get access to 25 climbing walls with different challenges, including the “Speed Climb” and the notoriously difficult “Triffid.”
The facility is well-equipped, with helpful staff ensuring safety and guiding climbers of all skill levels. Reviewers mention the fun and challenge, with one saying, “Kids loved it, and they had the wall climbing, high wire, and cave.” This experience is perfect for families or groups looking for a physical activity that’s indoors and weather-proof.
While it’s a more niche activity, it offers great value for those wanting a break from outdoor sightseeing, adding an energetic twist to your Bournemouth visit.
Bottom Line: Excellent for families or groups seeking an active, indoor adventure that tests agility and problem-solving skills.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Bournemouth
When deciding between these tours, think about your interests, budget, and time constraints. For a comprehensive coastal experience, the Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door Trip offers stunning scenery at a reasonable price. If you want to see a variety of highlights including castles and coastal walks, the Jurassic Coast & Isle of Purbeck delivers a full day of exploration.
For those with limited time, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus provides flexibility and easy access to key sights. Adventure seekers should consider the PierZip, while families and animal lovers will enjoy the Oceanarium. Lastly, the Climb at RockReef adds a physical activity if you’re craving something active indoors.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular outdoor tours and activities like ziplining, to secure your preferred times and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Bournemouth offers a wide range of tours—from scenic coastal trips to adrenaline-pumping activities and family-friendly attractions. If your time is limited, a hop-on hop-off bus or the Oceanarium might be just right. For outdoor lovers, the Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door Trip provides a stunning, leisurely experience. Adventure enthusiasts will find plenty to love in the zipline or climbing options.
No matter your interests, planning ahead and booking early will ensure you get the most out of your Bournemouth visit. Each of these experiences offers a different way to enjoy this lively seaside town—so pick the one that matches your style and make your trip memorable.