The NICI, Bournemouth – A Slice of South Beach Glamour on the South Coast
You’ll fall in love with The NICI Hotel - Tucked away on Bournemouth’s chic West Cliff, this is coastal cool meets international resort luxury. I’ve enjoyed attending various events here and have often chosen to dine in the restaurants myself, it’s a go-to spot when I’m after that getaway vibe close to home.
Location: West Cliff, Bournemouth
Best for: Stylish staycations, spa breaks, girly weekends, or indulgent afternoon teas
A Resort-Style Escape here in the UK
Overlooking the Bournemouth sea and just steps from the golden sands, The NICI brings a splash of Miami glamour to Dorset. With sleek white cabanas, a 30m outdoor pool, fire pits, and tropical gardens, it feels more like a scene from South Beach than the British coast. If you enjoy lounging poolside, sipping cocktails at golden hour, or indulging in a luxury spa treatment, this is a UK staycation that really transports you to a far away place.
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I spent a daycation here in May after coming back from Mauritius and I seriously forgot I’d come home. The Daycation includes full use of the spa with a 2 course delicious lunch in the South Beach restaurant. I had a light and summery burrata & peach salad followed by a roasted breast of chicken on crushed new potatoes & tender stem broccolini. It was divine & of course I added a few mocktails – I mean it would be rude not to right?
Spa Days That Actually Feel Like a Break
The NICI Spa is where your coastal calm begins. From the moment you step inside, it’s all soothing tones, ambient lighting, and pure tranquillity. Float between the indoor and outdoor pools, and sweat it out in the sauna or steam room. If you’re feeling energetic you can work out in the gym too.
I loved sitting by the outdoor pool soaking up the holiday vibes & glorious Dorset sunshine. You can grab a coffee or something a bit more indulgent from the Old Harry Rocks window which overlooks the pool.
Fancy something a little more indulgent from the spa too? The bespoke treatments here are tailored to leave you feeling totally recharged. You’ll leave wondering if real life can wait just one more day…
Bournemouth Meets Miami – Dining the NICI Way
Dining at THE NICI is anything but ordinary. Start with sunny terrace lunches at South Beach, it’s a relaxed, elegant setting where you can enjoy fresh vibrant dishes, colourful salads, with Miami-inspired classics taking centre stage. Or enjoy one of the ever changing champagne afternoon teas, the most recent summer inspired sweet theme features delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones, and indulgent handcrafted sweets like Mango & Passion Cheesecake. The Raspberry Cakesicles are one of my favourites so far.
You can also head to Old Harry Rocks, the hotel’s more laid-back spot, where the menu is packed with crowd-pleasers, sharers, and coastal favourites, all best enjoyed with friends and a cocktail (or two). With a view of the pool, this is one of my favourite spots to eat in Bournemouth. I spent my birthday here last year with family & friends & we all especially enjoyed the sharing platters and delicious cocktails out on the patio areas.
On weekends enjoy live DJ sets and feel the energy flow. Whether you’re drawn in by the flavours, the cocktails, or the coastal buzz, Old Harry Rocks delivers a vibe you won’t forget.
The Ultimate UK Staycation
If you’re planning a romantic weekend, a girls’ getaway, or a solo reset by the sea, you’ll find that The NICI has mastered the art of the luxury staycation. With boutique-style rooms, plush interiors, spa robes on standby, and that unbeatable mix of fun and finesse, it’s hard to leave.
Recently the setting for a Victoria’s Secrets event – The NICI is 100% an instagrammable place to be seen. And the best part? No flights, no passport, and no jetlag. Just pure, sunshine-filled luxury right here on the south coast.
With its bold design, world-class spa, vibrant dining scene, and beachside energy, The NICI isn’t just a hotel, it’s a whole mood. Whether you’re staying overnight or just dropping in for lunch and a little poolside lounging, this is one of the UK’s most exciting coastal destinations.
Whilst staying check out my 25 things to do in Bournemouth blog for some holiday inspiration by the sea.
By Sarah Bourne
