Hamworthy Park faces into Poole Harbour rather than out at the open sea, and that changes everything about it.
Why it suits small children
The water is shallow and calm, with no surf. Behind the sand there is grass, a playground and a paddling area, so the day does not depend entirely on the tide.
Where it is
On the western shore at Hamworthy, across the Twin Sails Bridge from the town centre, with views back over the water.
It is a working harbour: keep clear of channels and moving boats. See beach safety.