Calling all beach lovers. It's going to be warm and sunny over the next few days, making it the perfect time to head for the sand and surf.

And to celebrate, we've put together a handy guide of our Blue Flag beaches.

Which gets your vote? 

Sandbanks

Widely regarded as Dorset’s best beach (although the multitude of others may have something to say about that!), Sandbanks has held a European Blue Flag for more than 20 years.

The water quality off the peninsula is among the highest quality and the beach has been hailed for its safety.

As well as lifeguards on duty during peak season, there is a large car park, beachfront toilets, showers, ice cream kiosk and the much-loved Sandbanks Beach Café.

Canford Cliffs

Nestled beautifully between Branksome Chine and Flaghead Chine, Canford Cliffs is a quality beach of fine golden sands within walking distance of upmarket Sandbanks.

As well as boasting the oldest beach huts in the borough, dating back to 1927, Canford Cliffs has a 59-space car park at Ravine Road as well as roadside parking at the top of the Chine.

Canford Cliffs village offers many shops, restaurants and a café

Alum Chine

Flanked by its unique subtropical garden, Alum Chine is one of Bournemouth’s most popular beaches for young and old.

A recent upgrade of the children’s play facilities at the beach makes it a must-visit for those with youngsters.

A large car park is available behind the beach’s Italian restaurant which also serves ice creams and takeaway food from a kiosk. Toilets are available.

Durley Chine

Boasting a Harvester restaurant, Durley Chine is one of the most popular beaches in Bournemouth for those seeking food and drink as well as sunshine and golden sands.

RNLI lifeguards have a prominent watch house during the peak season, while an LV Kidzone scheme also runs at the beach.

A large car park is available behind the restaurant while a walk up the chine leads to Bournemouth’s West Cliff and Triangle areas.

Southbourne

Just a short stroll from the glorious Hengistbury Head, Southbourne is the jewel in east Bournemouth’s crown.

Less crowded than beaches on the west side of town, Southbourne provides beach lovers with an air of tranquillity.

Access to the beach is from the Gordon zig-zag between Southbourne and Fisherman’s Walk.

Branksome Chine

Poole’s last beach before Bournemouth, Branksome Chine sits in front of a dramatic cliff face.

The waters are clean, calm and refreshing and with a gentle slope, the sand is safe for youngsters.

Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months and with a restaurant, ice cream kiosks and toilets, everyone is well catered for at this popular stretch of beach.

Parking is available at the beach, but fills up quickly. There is roadside parking available a short walk from the beach.

Shore Road

Largely considered one of the best spots on the south coast, Shore Road is a narrow beach on the Sandbanks peninsula with Mediterranean cafes, parking and superb views across to Brownsea Island.

Fisherman's Walk

A viewing area at the top of Fisherman’s Walk cliff offers spectacular views across the coast from Hengistbury Head to the Poole Harbour entrance.

Offering quiet seclusion, Fisherman’s Walk is a safe stretch of sand for youngsters as well as offering a cliff lift for the less able.

Swanage

One of the main attractions of the town, Swanage Beach provides clean, safe water and runs the length of Swanage.

Deck chairs are available for hire, as well as kayaks and sun beds as well as promenade attractions and amusements to keep you entertained.