Sea kayaking around Poole Harbour's famous island
Explore Poole Harbour by sea kayak, paddling around Brownsea Island. This full-day trip takes you through one of the largest natural harbours in the world, with abundant birdlife, stunning coastal views and the chance to explore places only accessible from the water.
A full day out on the water, paddling around 10km through a beautiful natural harbour.
Islands, wildlife, and one of the world's great harbours
Poole Harbour is vast - the second largest natural harbour in the world and from a kayak it feels endless. Launching from Studland, we'll paddle out into the harbour, where the water stretches in every direction and the islands sit like green jewels on the surface, with Brownsea Island as the centrepiece. Famous for its red squirrels and as the birthplace of the Scout movement, from the water it reveals a wilder side - hidden beaches, overhanging trees and a shoreline that feels genuinely remote, despite being minutes from Poole. We'll paddle along its edges, duck into sheltered bays and watch the wading birds that gather on the mudflats at low tide.
The route loops around the harbour islands, past moored yachts and through channels where the birdlife is spectacular. Ospreys have returned to this harbour in recent years and the moment you spot one diving is worth the entire trip. By the end of the day, you'll have covered around ten kilometres and experienced a harbour that most people only ever see from the Sandbanks ferry.
Preparing for your trip
- Meeting Point: Bramble Bush Bay, Studland
- Duration: Approximately 5 hours (10am to 3pm)
- Distance: Around 10km
- Lunch: Bring a packed lunch and water
- Experience: Some previous kayaking experience recommended
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we land on Brownsea Island?
How long is the trip?
What wildlife might we see?
Do I need previous experience?
Where do we meet?
At a Glance
What to Bring
- Towel
- Complete change of clothes
- Camera and snacks, if required
Practical Details
- Duration: 5 hours
- Season: Year-round
Important Info
- Location: Bramble Bush Bay
- Difficulty: Beginner Friendly
Gallery
What People Say
“The beautiful scenery and the back support on the kayaks for someone with posture issues it made all the difference”
“Going a place never been before. Upstream from Pulbrough”
“Getting out into the water again after two years absence - absolute joy ! Not having to transport the kayak on our car or store the kayak at home. Perfect easy entry to the kayak from the beach.”
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