Bournemouth is a lively seaside town with plenty of options for exploring beyond its sandy beaches. Its proximity to the Jurassic Coast, charming villages, and natural parks makes it a perfect base for memorable tours. Whether you’re after a scenic day out, a quick city tour, or adrenaline-pumping activities, Bournemouth’s tour options cater to all interests. We particularly love the Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door trip for its breathtaking views and flexible pace, and the Jurassic Coast & Isle of Purbeck Day Tour for a full immersion into the area’s natural beauty and history. Plus, the Bournemouth Pier Zip offers a fun rush for thrill-seekers.
In this list, we’ve included a variety of tours: scenic coastal trips, hop-on-hop-off city buses, adventurous zip lines, and aquariums that make family outings special. Each experience has its own charm, whether it’s discovering the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast or taking a leisurely city sightseeing tour. For more details, check out our links to each tour.
1. From Bournemouth: Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door Trip
This trip offers a six-hour journey into some of the most iconic sights of the Jurassic Coast. The tour is famous for its flexibility—your guide will help you explore Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door at your own pace, giving you time to soak in the views and take photos. Starting from Bournemouth Coach Station, you’ll enjoy scenic drives through Sandbanks and Poole before reaching your destinations.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of guided insight and free exploration. You’ll marvel at the Durdle Door rock arch, often called the jewel of the Jurassic Coast, and wander along the shell-shaped Lulworth Cove, with time to enjoy the natural beauty or grab a snack. The guide’s local knowledge adds depth, sharing stories about the area’s geology and history. Reviewers love Paul, the guide, calling him “fantastic” and noting that the trip is “well planned” with “amazing photos.” At just over $50 per person, it offers great value for a memorable day of scenery and discovery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want an easy, scenic escape from Bournemouth with expert guidance and flexible time for exploring.
2. From Bournemouth: Jurassic Coast & Isle of Purbeck Day Tour
For those looking for a full-day adventure, this 10-hour tour packs in the highlights of Dorset’s iconic sights. Departing from Bournemouth Pier, you’ll cross the ferry from Sandbanks to the Isle of Purbeck, making this a special part of the experience. The tour includes a cliff top walk around Durlston Country Park, exploring the ruins of Corfe Castle, and visiting Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door.
What makes this trip unique is the combination of coastal scenery, historic sites, and marine views. The guide shares detailed stories, and the small coach ensures a comfortable ride. Many reviews praise the guide, Paul, for his knowledge and friendliness. The tour is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike, with stops at Durlston Castle, Corfe Castle, and the famous limestone formations. Although priced higher at around $74, it delivers a comprehensive experience, especially for those wanting to see more of Dorset in one day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting an immersive, full-day tour with varied sights and a mix of outdoor walking and sightseeing.
3. Bournemouth: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
If city exploration is more your style, this hop-on-hop-off bus allows flexible sightseeing around Bournemouth and nearby Poole. Valid for one or two days, the tour covers highlights like Bournemouth Pier, Westbourne’s boutique shops, and Poole Park. The open-top bus offers great panoramic views, and the commentary provides useful local insights.
This tour offers a cost-effective way to get your bearings, especially if limited on time or traveling with family. Reviewers note that the drivers are helpful and friendly, and the commentary is clear and informative. It’s ideal for those interested in a laid-back, flexible day exploring the town’s best spots without the hassle of driving or planning multiple routes. At under $25, it’s a budget-friendly option that complements other outings.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-time visitors wanting a simple, flexible overview of Bournemouth’s and Poole’s attractions.
4. Bournemouth Pier: PierZip Entrance Ticket
For thrill-seekers, the PierZip is a unique experience. This zip line over the sea lets you soar from the pier’s tower directly into the water, a quick but exhilarating ride lasting about 1.5 hours. You’ll be harnessed, guided, and safe, but still challenged to overcome nerves for the jump.
What makes this activity standout is the adrenaline rush combined with stunning sea views. Many reviewers mention how friendly and encouraging the staff are, making even hesitant participants feel confident enough to go through with it. The experience is suitable for ages 10 and up, and race options add a fun competitive element. At around $34, it’s pricier than some activities but offers a memorable, Instagram-worthy adrenaline hit.
Bottom Line: A top choice for families and adventurous travelers looking for a quick, fun splash of excitement.
5. Bournemouth Oceanarium Ticket
If you prefer a more relaxed, indoor activity, the Oceanarium provides a fascinating look into marine life. The ticket grants access to exhibits featuring penguins, otters, and Amazon rainforest tanks, offering a variety of sights in a family-friendly setting. Visitors can enjoy shows, feeding sessions, and the chance to learn about different species in a well-curated environment.
Reviews mention that the Oceanarium is perfect for children, with some noting that their toddler loved the penguins and fish. It’s a good rainy-day option or a break from outdoor sightseeing, especially for families wanting an educational experience. At around $21, it’s reasonably priced and offers a full day of entertainment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families, or those looking for a calming, educational experience close to Bournemouth’s center.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour in Bournemouth
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests and time. If you want to see the stunning Jurassic Coast, the Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door trip is a fantastic, flexible option, especially for quick trips. For a full-day exploration, the Jurassic Coast & Isle of Purbeck Day Tour offers a rich experience with historic sites and scenic views. Families or those with limited time might prefer the Bournemouth Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, providing a leisurely overview of the town’s highlights.
Adventurers should consider the PierZip for a quick adrenaline fix, while those traveling with kids or seeking a more relaxed outing will enjoy the Oceanarium. Book early, especially in peak seasons, to ensure availability and secure the best times for your preferred activities.
Bournemouth offers a wide range of tours—from scenic coastal adventures to city sightseeing and adrenaline rushes—so there’s something for every traveler. For breathtaking landscapes, the Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door trip stands out as a must. Family travelers, or those seeking a relaxing day, will find the Oceanarium or hop-on-hop-off bus perfect. And thrill-seekers shouldn’t miss the PierZip experience.
No matter your style, planning ahead and booking early will help you make the most of your visit. Each tour provides a different perspective on this lively seaside town and its surroundings, making Bournemouth a destination with plenty to explore.
