Shell Bay & Knoll Beaches

These Beaches, owned by the National Trust, are iconic beaches on Studland Bay on the Isle of Purbeck, Dorset, both forming part of a four mile stretch of golden sand.

Shell Bay Beach is directly on the left as you disembark The Sandbanks Ferry at the Shell Bay Terminal, when travelling to the Isle of Purbeck.

The beach is located on the Studland Peninsula, with golden sands backed by sand dunes and clear, calm waters.

Shell Bay is perfect for a relaxing beach day and watching the world go by, with plenty of boats passing by as it sits at the entrance of Poole Harbour.

Parking is available all along Ferry Road, and there is a National Trust Car Park alongside the Sandbanks Ferry toll booths.

Knoll Beach is the largest beach at Studland Bay, located on its southern end, a few minutes’ drive from The Sandbanks Ferry Shell Bay Terminal.

The beach forms part of the Studland National Nature Reserve, with dunes, wetland, and woodland habitats backing the sandy beach.

Knoll Beach is popular with families and tourists, with an on-site National Trust café, walking trails, and plenty of beach-side activities.

Water sports enthusiasts can access a range of activities including kayaking, paddle boarding, windsurfing, and even banana boat rides.

Parking is available in the nearby National Trust Car Parks in Studland, and before that there is also a path leading from Jerry’s Point Parking on Ferry Road to the heart of Studland beaches.