Dunes Beach
Dunes Beach at West Lake in autumn, looking north from beach area; Image 16-7558a, John A. Brebner
Description
Dunes Beach, situated on the south-western shore of West Lake is easily the most visually stunning of the beach and recreational areas at Sandbanks Park. Because West Lake is relatively shallow and protected from the prevailing winds by the spectacular dunes, its warmer waters are a favourite for early-May beach-goers.
During the summer season, there is a swimming zone delineated by ropes and buoys, but users should be aware that the lake-bottom slopes away deeply just a few metres past that controlled area. Accordingly, that water may not be suitable for unaccompanied or weaker swimmers.
The more northerly parts of the beach along the West Lake Bar are popular with both visitors and County residents in the area, arriving by canoe, motor boat or other personal water craft from around West Lake.
Facilities
Dunes Beach features full washrooms, a children's playground, a (seasonal) snack bar (operated by our friends at Currah's) as well as several family-sized picnic shelters, equipped with stand-up charcoal barbecues.
Convenient parking is less than 100 metres from the beach, and mobility-challenged accessible.
Day-Use Park Permits are available from an automated ticket dispenser in the parking area.
This is a Day-Use Facility only (07h00 - 22h00). Overnight camping is prohibited.
Please note: Lifeguards are not present at any Sandbanks Park beaches. Parents and/or guardians are solely responsible for their children's and/or guests' safety.