Many superb holiday parks in Dorset are based within a stone’s throw of the towering cliffs, rugged coastlines and endless stretches of ocean that make this region a paradise of the adventure-seeking family. If you’re looking to really make a splash with your family holiday this year, we’ve picked out some incredible water adventures to try your hand at.
Kayaking
If you’re looking for an amazing excursion that will thrill parents and children alike, you should consider sea kayaking along the Jurassic Coast. One of the best places to try is Middle Beach at Studland Bay, where Fore/Adventure runs kayak trips out to the striking geological landmark of Old Harry Rocks. With options suited to any level of experience, they also offer the opportunity to fish and forage seafood from your kayak, and even cook up a fresh fish supper on the beach afterwards!
Snorkelling
Once you’ve all got a taste for the ocean with a kayak trip, maybe it’s time to take a look at the world beneath the waves with a snorkelling adventure. Brave the seas of the Jurassic Coast and you’ll be amazed at the sights you can discover.
Some places offer a combined snorkelling and kayaking experience, while Kimmeridge Bay has a trail of buoys for snorkelers to follow during the summer months, taking you and the kids through an exciting range of undersea environments. Seize the chance to immerse yourselves in another world and get some good exercise, too.
Paddleboarding
While Dorset may not make for the ideal surfing spot, one sport that offers the opportunity for embarrassing wipeouts in front of the kids is paddleboarding. It’s a great way for the whole family to get the blood pumping and put their balance and flexibility to the test – and likely end up in the water once or twice, too.
Paddleboarding has taken off in recent years, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding somewhere to try it out, no matter which of the holiday parks in Dorset you’re staying at.
Water parks
Although many of the holiday parks in Dorset are right by the coast, you don’t need to limit yourself to the ocean waves if you’re on the lookout for watery adventures. Some of the most adrenaline-fuelled action in the county can be found in its water parks.
Dorset Waterpark in Corfe Castle challenges you and the kids to take on a punishing outdoor obstacle course with a unique twist – the entire thing is floating on water. The attraction consists of a pair of lakes kitted out with inflatable assault courses, and the whole family will have to push themselves to the limits to conquer them, before cooling off with a quick dip in the water – intentional or not!
And for somewhere with a little less exertion but just as much excitement, Splashdown Waterpark, appropriately located in Poole, is the place to go for a range of pulse-pounding rides and slides suitable for all ages and abilities.
Whatever activity takes your fancy, there are so many shoreside holiday parks in Dorset that a trip to the Jurassic Coast means you’re never far from a water adventure.
Michael Paul is the Managing Director of Michael Paul Holidays, a holiday property agency offering a handpicked range of accommodation in wonderful UK locations. Whether you are looking for the best holiday parks in Dorset or the cosiest cottages and log cabins in Scotland, he and his team will find you that perfect property for an unforgettable trip.
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