beaches to visit isle of wight

THE 10 BEST Isle of Wight Beaches

Beaches in isle of wight.

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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Steephill Cove Beach

2. Shanklin Beach

3. Ryde Beach

4. Steve's Beach

5. Yaverland Beach

6. Appley Beach

7. Compton Beach

8. Ventnor Beach

9. Freshwater Bay

10. Sandown Beach

11. Gurnard Beach

12. Sandown Beach Hire

What travellers are saying

• Shanklin Beach
• Steve's Beach
• Yaverland Beach
• Appley Beach
• Steephill Cove Beach
• Freshwater Bay
• Compton Beach

Best Beaches on the Isle of Wight: Sun, Sea & Sand Guide

Home » Best Beaches on the Isle of Wight: Sun, Sea & Sand Guide

In this guide, we’ll take you on a virtual journey along the sun-kissed shores of the Isle of Wight . We’ll guide you to the crème de la crème of its coastal wonders, nestled away from the hustle and bustle of big city lights. Expect shimmering waters, tranquil surroundings, and an occasional whiff of an ocean-salted breeze on this tour around the best beaches on the Isle of Wight.

Whether you’re an adventurer looking for breathtaking coastal walks, a family seeking safe, sandy playgrounds, or simply someone who finds peace in the rhythmic crashing of the blue waves, there’s a perfect Isle of Wight beach waiting just for you. Let’s dive in, and let the island’s maritime rhythm guide our way!

Table of Contents

How Many Beaches are on the Isle of Wight?

Thinking of taking a trip to the Isle of Wight and wondering how many beaches there are here? Well, prepare to toss that beach ball in surprise because this paradise is home to more than 30 beaches and stretches of sand.

Each one carved by nature’s hand is distinct, offering a mixture of buzz and tranquillity. We’ve detailed a few unmissables in this guide but there’s a world more awaiting your sandals’ prints.

Take our insights as the launchpad, but remember the best beach will always be the one you discover yourself and reserve a place for in your heart. So, step out, explore, and let the songs of the sea guide your journey across the island’s sandy medley.

Beaches on The Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight, a compact island with about 60 miles of stunning coastline, has a range of beaches. But where exactly are these golden sanctuaries located? For our beach-loving readers, we’ve put together an overview of the best beaches on the Isle of Wight.

Shanklin Beach

Beginning our exploration on the east side of the island, you’ll find the jewel of Shanklin Beach . Here are some distinguishing features:

• Picturesque golden sand
• Traditional English charm
• Nestled in a beautiful bay

Located on the east coast of the Isle, Shanklin Beach is nothing short of a picturesque paradise. Its extensive stretch of golden sands combines with an enticingly transparent sea, creating a remarkable panorama that instantly transforms every moment into a fond memory. When the sun hits just right, the beach glistens like pure gold, a sight that seals its spot among the best.

Shanklin isn’t just a pretty face, though. Lively beachfront cafes, charming shops, and small amusement parks add a unique cultural flavour to the beach’s natural beauty. Whether you’re savouring the taste of a freshly caught seafood platter or absorbing the tranquil vibes, it’s a place where time seems to be still, leaving you wonder-struck by its uncomplicated elegance.

Venturing north, meet Ryde Beach , a top location on our list. Here’s what Ryde observes to offer:

• Wide expanses of sand at low tide
• Perfect for beach sports or brisk strolls
• Location opposite Portsmouth on the Solent shipping lanes for picture-perfect vistas

From the heart of the Isle of Wight, we travel to the northeastern coast, where Ryde Beach sits pretty with its unique charm. Unlike Shanklin’s golden spectacle, Ryde bestows upon us a sandy canvas splashed with an array of colourful beach huts, like little soldiers standing guard over the shoreline.

Stroll along the longest stretch of sand on the island, and let the prevailing wind tousle your hair as the rhythmic lull of the shallow coastal waters harmonizes with the cries of seagulls. When hunger pangs strike, retreat to the nearby eateries for a warm mug of hot chocolate or a savoury bite of the local cuisine.

Colwell Bay

For family-friendly beach venues, Colwell Bay is a go-to choice with its gentle sandy stretch and a shallow, clear water area, perfect for the little tykes to paddle in safely. The beach has a cluster of colourful beach huts, casual eateries, and a jetty ideal for crabbing—an activity bound to fascinate the younger crowd.

Yaverland Beach

Meanwhile, Yaverland Beach , located just beyond Sandown, has enough room for kids to spread their wings—build sandcastles, fly kites, or collect pretty seashells. With lifeguards on patrol during peak season, parents can rest assured their kids are safe while they bask in the gentle sun.

Bembridge Beach

When it comes to dog-friendly beaches, Bembridge Beach leads the pack. With lots of walking tracks nearby and a shoreline that spans from Forelands Beach to Whitecliff Bay, it assures a wagtastic day for your furry pal. Just bear in mind to respect the local dog regulations and keep the beach as clean and enjoyable for everyone as you found it.

No matter the type of traveller, the Isle of Wight indisputably offers a beach for every preference. So, round up the fam, leash up the dog, and come create some beach memories worth framing.

Wrapping Up Our Isle of Wight Journey

As our sunny stay on the Isle of Wight comes to a close, we’re left basking in the afterglow of some of the most spectacular beaches that Britain offers. The Isle’s coastline is a bucket list of indulgence for beach lovers, each marked with its unique charm. From the family and dog-friendly spots to the hidden nooks that await discovery, the Island offers a variety of beaches for every preference.

A Question Without a Single Answer

In our exploration, it’s clear that there is no singular best beach on the Isle of Wight. Each beach presents a unique charm and allure that compels one to admire and appreciate its beauty.

More than Just Scenery

The Isle of Wight doesn’t just have beaches; it has backdrops for splendid memories and landscapes that stay with you long after your trip. The sound of the sea colliding with the shore under a wide, welcoming sky serves as a reminder of the unforgettable experience this sunny Isle offers.

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Ventnor is a Victorian seaside resort built into the steep slopes and cliffs of St Boniface Down, the highest point on the Isle of Wight. Roads zig-zag down to the sea past terraces planted with sub-tropical plants, a feature of this very sunny micro-climate. The south-facing seafront is sheltered by cliffs and boasts a lovely…

2. Seagrove Beach

Located near Bembridge, Seagrove Bay is on the northeast coast of the Isle of Wight. Facing eastwards into the English Channel it is fairly sheltered from both the wind and waves. Although the beach is pebbly near the shore, at low tide it has plenty of sand which is gently sloping and is ideal for…

3. Yaverland Beach (Sandown)

Located between Sandown and the cliffs of Culver Down, Yaverland is thought by many to be one of the best beaches on the Isle of Wight. The trick is to get here at low tide - at high tide there is only a relatively small section of sandy beach backed by sea-defences and an esplanade.…

4. Colwell Bay

Colwell Bay is a sand and shingle beach on the western shore of the Isle of Wight. It is a relatively quiet beach, and is reputed to be one of the cleanest on the island (it is cleaned daily). The water here is generally calm and clear, making it a good beach for swimming and…

5. St Helens Beach

A peaceful sandy beach, backed by dunes and a promenade. Swimming, walking and birdwatching.

6. Compton Bay

An unspoilt, two mile stretch of sandy beach on the coast road between Freshwater Bay and Brook. Popular with surfers, windsurfers and kite surfers.

No facilities apart from toilets and a refreshment van in summer.

At low tide it is possible to see dinosaur footprints printed into the rocks.

7. Bembridge Beach

Bembridge is a mostly pebble beach on the east coast of the Isle of Wight. However, once the tide is out a good stretch of sand appears below the high water mark. The sand here is interspersed with many interesting rockpools. Perhaps the most notable feature of the beach here is the lifeboat station. It…

8. Steephill Cove

This pretty little cove has no direct car access and remains an unspoilt idyll. A sandy beach backing onto an esplanade and collection of cottages. The beach is served by a cafe and seafood restaurant and is around about a twenty minute walk from nearby Ventor.

9. Gurnard Beach

Gurnard Beach is located on the North of the Isle of Wight, within an easy and scenic 15 minute walk from the seaport town of Cowes. The pebble and shingle beach offers visitors lovely views across the Solent as well as stunning sunsets. Although Gurnard is a relatively small beach, it still offers plenty of…

10. Shanklin Beach

The coastal popular resort of Shanklin is located in the south-east corner of the island, at the southernmost tip of Sandown Bay. Golden sands are protected by a high sea wall with a traditional paved promenade creating the vision of a traditional English seaside. The pier was lost in a storm in 1987 and the…

11. Thorness Bay

Thorness Bay is a Site of special scientific interest (SSSI) and this includes the 2 miles of sandy beach. Despite having a large holiday park located right next door the beach is big enough to offer some peace and quiet whilst watching the boats in the Solent.

12. Sandown Beach

Popular with families, surfers, and pretty much everyone else, sandy Sandown on the Isle of Wight is a traditional resort beach with a gentle slope to it. Think "buckets and spades", crazy golf, deckchair, sun lounger, and windbreak hire, souvenir shops, and a choice of cafes on the esplanade offering takeaway coffees, teas, ice creams,…

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The best beaches on the Isle of Wight

By Sophie Campbell

There’s something tantalising about the Isle of Wight . Seen on a map it looks as though a good shove would reunite it with the south coast of England , between, say, Milford on Sea and Gosport. Seen from the coasts of Dorset or Hampshire it can look by turns misty and remote or vividly near, its chalk cliffs toothy white in the sun.

Once you actually arrive it feels like a distilled drop of Englishness (cue eye-roll from the islanders): cliffs and downs, suburbs and country, native orchids and floral exotics, some of the best beaches in the UK , beach huts, sailing clubs, surfers, walkers and fish, sometimes with chips.

Its population of 141,000 might be small, but the Isle of Wight is packed to the brim with  beaches , sometimes pure sand but more usually pebbly or a mix. Views range from the litter of old forts and gun batteries around the coast to the suburban jumble of the mainland and from dashing sails to empty sea.

Whatever your thing, there is an Isle of Wight beach for it – and it’s always a treat to watch unwary visitors slowly retreating up their chosen patch as the day goes on, squeezed into a strip of foreshore narrowed by the Solent’s famous double tides.

Best beaches on the Isle of Wight

Bembridge Beach

Bembridge is home to one of the grander sailing clubs and its sand and pebble beach is ideal for watching Redwings and One Designs zip in and out of the harbour. Try a morning swim (check the tide) and a full English at the Tollgate Café , then stroll east to Lane End for rock-pooling. Under normal circumstances, the dramatic RNLI lifeboat station has an annual open day in August. Keep going around the corner for a pint at the Crab & Lobster Inn .

Yaverland Beach

This Isle of Wight beach is found at the quiet end of Sandown Bay, less commercial than cheery old Sandown, and has great views of Culver Down, an easterly remnant of the chalk seam that crosses the island, geologically-speaking, like a gastric band. The beach is a vast sand apron at low tide and the swimming is good. Best of all it’s got dinosaurs – or their fossils – and the pterodactyl-shaped Dinosaur Isle museum does Fossil Walks for a fiver.

Compton Bay

This whopping stretch of sand is reached via steps from three National Trust car parks (Brook Beach steps are currently closed). Take a picnic, a body board, in fact everything because there’s not much here. Bliss. Look for the three-toed dinosaur ‘footprint’ at Hanover Point, then walk over the cliffs or drive along the Military Road to sweet little Freshwater Bay for all-day dining and top coffee (and Friday/Saturday mezze nights) at the Piano Café . The cafe occupies the former village post office, itself in a house that belonged to Queen Victoria’s piano-tuner. Double bliss.

nationaltrust.org.uk

Shanklin Chine Beach

The west end of Shanklin Beach, with its jolly beach huts and Fisherman’s Cottage pub, is lovely, though it starts losing sun by mid-afternoon. Shanklin Chine, one of the deep fissures that puckers the island’s edges, was a tourist attraction in Regency England and makes a charming stroll down to the beach. Choose a moonlit night – it’s illuminated and open until 10pm in summer – or walk west from the Esplanade.

shanklinchine.co.uk

Gurnard Beach

Gurnard is a 20-minute walk from the Red Jet ferry terminal in Cowes, passing the prestigious Royal Yacht Squadron, hub of the action during the Cowes Week sailing regatta . It’s a curving bay with a sand and shingle beach and its special powers are sunsets and close-up views of yachts during races. Walk around to the light-filled Little Gloster restaurant with rooms on Marsh Road, run by Ben and Holly Cooke and serving fish and seafood – though possibly not gurnard, a prehistorically ugly bottom-feeder.

Colwell Bay

When George and Sophie Adams found a beach café for sale in the West Wight, they sold their Fulham restaurant and returned to her home island. The Hut has huge sun terraces with retractable roofs and its own RIB, so 75 per cent of guests come by boat from Lymington, Southampton or Portsmouth. The mix is eclectic, from families and locals to corporates in deckwear, and the pebbly beach has fine swimming, lovely evening sun and looks straight across at Hurst Castle on its spit. There’s fishing and rock-pooling on Warden Ledge, which divides Colwell from Totland, at low tide.

Steephill Cove

One of the cutest beaches on the Isle of Wight, 20 minutes’ walk along the coast path from the sunny southern resort of Ventnor. It’s exposed, though, and at high tide the beach is under water. This is where to come for an ozone hit: get a local crab pasty at The Crab Shed (no bookings, closed winter) and sit on the beach to eat it – or nip into the Cove Coffee Shop for a cake break. Crab Shed owners Jim and Mandy Wheeler also have B&B and self-catering properties. Park at the Botanic Garden carpark or on the main road.

steephillcove-isleofwight.co.uk

Osborne House Beach

This bite-sized bay belongs to Queen Victoria’s much-loved getaway home, designed for her partly by Prince Albert and now an English Heritage site. The queen swam here in a voluminous bathing dress and her bathing machine sits by the beach to prove it. It has proper sand, a jolly café and a land train (a train that can run on regular roads) to and from the house. The entry fee is worth it: it’s peaceful, with lovely views, and the house and grounds are a treat.

english-heritage.org.uk

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St Helen’s Duver

The island has several duvers (pronounced ‘duvver’); it means an area of sand dunes and St Helen’s version is known for three things: the cabin-style Baywatch on the Beach Café, where the dining experience varies but not much beats sitting by the bay with a crab sandwich; the 13th-century church tower, all that remains of a Norman priory; and the hugely popular Fort Walk, an annual low-tide jaunt out to one of the Victorian forts known as Palmerston’s Follies – this one, unusually, has a causeway.

The 13 Best Beaches on the Isle of Wight

Found just off the shore of the south coast of England , the Isle of Wight is a popular travel destination that is quintessentially British, with stunning rural countryside, plenty of historical heritage sites and lots of beaches and seaside towns that are the perfect setting for a summer holiday.

Beaches on the Isle of White range from secluded, pebbly stretches of coastline to private strips of sand, rock pooling havens and classic places to take your bucket and spade. Whatever kind of seaside experiences you’re looking for on this picturesque British island, this list of the 13 best Isle of Wight beaches has got something for everyone.

How to get to the Isle of Wight?

• You can arrive on the Isle of Wight by train and Ferry, leaving from Portsmouth Harbour. Search here for the best connections and prices for trains and ferries . • Another option is to book a full-day tour to the Isle of Wight from London , which includes transport. • Additionally, you can book a hovercraft flight between Southsea in Portsmouth and Ryde on the Isle of Wight that will take you from the coast of the UK to the island in just 10 minutes.

Best Sandy Beaches on the Isle of Wight

For the ultimate sandy beach experience on the Isle of Wight, Ryde Beach should be at the top of your list. Located along the front of the cheerful seaside town of Ryde, this beach stretches out for miles and is so large that a pier had to be built so that passengers arriving by boat at low tide could make it to the town without having to walk across the sand.

Ryde Beach is a wonderful place for dog walks, sandcastles, beach games and even horse riding, with plenty of space for everyone on even the busiest days at the coast. The nearby attractions of the town make it ideal for families with smaller children or for visitors arriving for the day who want to enjoy all the best parts of a trip to the seaside.

If you wish to stay in near Ryde Beach for a few nights, we recommend staying at this apartment with a balcony, or a seafront hotel such as Ryde Castle by Greene King Inns ; a majestic Victorian manor. Alternatively, you can browse through all of Ryde’s accommodation options.

Osborne Beach

This pretty sandy beach is one of the most secluded and beautiful on the Isle of Wight and is a perfect place to come for picturesque views and a peaceful atmosphere. Osbourne Beach once belonged to Queen Victoria and her family, who used to spend their summer holidays enjoying the whole beach to themselves and whose bathing machine you can still find beside the shore.

Osbourne Beach is part of the English Heritage Site Osbourne House, so you do have to pay an entry fee to explore the whole area (click here to book in advance and avoid lines ). It’s definitely worth it for the chance to enjoy the private beach, along with the chance to learn about the historic holiday home of the Royals and enjoy other attractions like an ice cream parlour and family shows in the summer.

If you want to stay close to Osborne Beach in order to make the most of this historic site, the Albert Cottage Hotel is a beautiful spot less than half a mile away. Or for a beachfront self-catering property in East Cowes, Anchor Cottage sleeps up to four guests.

Yaverland Beach

Many people claim that Yaverland Beach is one of the best beaches on the Isle of Wight because of its golden sand, clean and shallow water, and the fact that it is a dog-friendly spot on the island all year round. Found between Sandown and the Culver Down cliffs, there is a large nearby car park that has a beach cafe and small shop, along with a nearby sailing club that is busy all year round.

Yaverland Beach is a very popular sport with watersports enthusiasts, so as well as boats from the nearby sailing club you can also expect to see a lot of surfers, jet skiers and windsurfers out on the water. It’s also a brilliant beach to go fossil hunting, as the nearby cliffs have preserved many ancient species and make this a very good place to learn more about the historic dinosaur inhabitants of the island.

If you’re looking to stay near Yaverland Beach, nearby Sandown is home to plenty of self-catering chalets that are a great place to base yourself to explore the area. Or, for a more luxurious experience, the Burlington Hotel is another good accommodation option.

Best Dog-Friendly Beaches on the Isle of Wight

Seagrove Beach

Seagrove Beach is found on the northeast coast of the Isle of Wight, sandwiched between Seaview beach and Priory Bay. It’s known as being one of the best beaches on the island for families because of its Blue Flag recommended clear waters and sheltered position, but also the fact that dogs are allowed on the beach throughout the year so can be brought along with the rest of the family.

The stretch of beach right next to the shore is quite pebbly, but once the tide goes out Seagrove Beach is soft and sandy, gently sloping down to shallow water that gradually gets deeper. Don’t bring your dog at high tide however, as the beach almost entirely disappears and there’s isn’t much space for exploring.

For a truly unforgettable stay near this beach, The Boathouse is a beautiful holiday property that sleeps up to 6 guests and offers stunning views of Seagrove Bay.

Freshwater Bay

At the western tip of the Isle of Wight is Freshwater Bay; a secluded, pebbly beach that is a great spot for walkers and watersports enthusiasts. Bringing your dogs to this beach during the high season for tourism on the island is restricted, but the rest of the year it’s a brilliant place to come for long walks with your furry friends.

Freshwater Bay is also known as one of the most beautiful Isle of Wight beaches because of the stunning chalk cliffs that surround the bay and rock formations that make it an incredibly interesting piece of coastline. When the tide is out, sand is revealed right next to the water, but the beach tends to be more popular with surfers and sailing boats as opposed to families hoping to spend a day beside the sea.

Whilst it’s a little bit of a walk from Freshwater Bay, if you’re looking for more of a luxurious stay on the Isle of Wight then Weston Manor B&B is a beautiful option. The manor house is set on the grounds of a National Trust Heritage Site and is ideal if you want to stay somewhere really special.

Best Isle of Wight Beaches with Rock Pools

St Helens Beach

St Helen’s Beach, or St Helen’s Duver as it is often known, is one of the best beaches on the Isle of Wight for rock pooling. Backed by sand dunes and featuring stretches of rocky shingle, when the tide goes out there are hundreds of rockpools left on the beach which are absolutely teeming with life.

If you’ve got younger children then rock pooling at St Helen’s is a wonderful way to spend a day on the Isle of Wight when the weather is not so good, with low tide being the best time to visit this beach. As well as the incredible crevices that have been carved out of the limestone rock along the beach, there is also a local cafe and a couple of historic ruins nearby that make it a great spot for an afternoon trip.

Compton Bay

Compton Bay is found on the south-west of the island, and is a brilliant sandy beach that is also a very popular spot with fossil hunters. There are three different National Trust car parks up on the cliffs that you can reach the beach from, and miles of unspoiled sand which is perfect for bracing walks.

The rockpools at Compton Bay are one of the main attractions for the area, as there aren’t many other beachside facilities and you’ll mainly find over rock poolers or surfers along the sand. However, this means that you’ll likely have your pick of the rock pools if you visit this beach and can spend hours exploring the coastline and spotting creatures alongside the fossils that have been left by their ancestors.

Bembridge Beach

Known for its impressive sailing club as well as the rock pooling opportunities, Bembridge Beach is a pebbly area on the east coast of the Isle of Wight that reveals a lovely stretch of sandy beach when the tide is out. The views from the beach make it a really great place for walks across the stones and collecting shells, and there are a few good beachside facilities as well as the nearby village of Bembridge.

When the tide goes out at Bembridge Beach, a brilliant collection of rock pools are revealed along the strip of sand beside the water. Make sure you check the tide tables before you visit, and enjoy the quiet atmosphere and wonderful selection of aquatic life that can be found in the different pools.

If you want to stay somewhere really unique near to Bembridge Beach, we recommend Houseboat Heyvon . Built on stilts in Bembridge Harbour, it’s a self-catering property sleeping up to four guests and allowing pets, making it. a great spot for a family holiday.

Best Accessible Beaches on the Isle of Wight

Ventnor Beach

The beach at Ventnor is backed by the picturesque seaside town that will make you feel as though you’ve stepped back into Victorian England for your holidays. The whole area is very done up for tourism which means that it’s one of the most accessible beaches and towns on the Isle of Wight, with both shingle and sandy beaches that will be suitable for some mobility vehicles.

There are vintage-style beach huts at Ventnor Beach that make a great base for days spent on the beach, along with lots of facilities right on the front which can be very easily reached from the sand. Disabled parking spaces are available right on the promenade of the town, and the town’s pier is also relatively accessible unless the weather is particularly bad.

For some classic British seaside accommodation, Ventnor Bay House is a charming bed and breakfast right next to the beach. If you’re looking for self-catering places to stay, Ventnor Apartment sleeps up to four and has a beautiful balcony offering great sea views.

Shanklin Beach

Shanklin is one of the most well-established beaches on the island and has been laying claim to the title of ‘best Isle of Wight beach’ for hundreds of years. With over a mile of golden sand, there is a long stretch of paved promenade that is ideal for mobility vehicles and those who find walking easiest on smooth and flat ground.

The town of Shanklin is quite a typical British seaside resort, with attractions like crazy golf, beach huts and beach cafes along the Esplanade. There’s a lift down to the beach from the top of the cliffs behind the town, and plenty of parking along the front that includes disabled spaces.

Sandown Beach

Sandown Beach is another classic British seaside town that is one of the most popular places to stay on the Isle of Wight, as well as being one of the island’s most accessible beaches. The front has a wide range of amusements and attractions that are all easy to get to, as well as a pier that completes the ‘bucket and spade’ atmosphere of the town.

The beach itself at Sandown is golden and sandy and the water has a Blue Flag rating for cleanliness and safety that makes it a very popular place for families with younger children. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes on the front serving everything from ice cream to fish and chips, and classic features such as crazy golf courses and beach huts.

A fantastic bed and breakfast close to Sandown Beach is The Townhouse 101 , offering a range of double rooms and stylish, modern decor along with breakfast every morning for guests.

Best Hidden Beaches on the Isle of Wight

Gurnard Beach

A short walk away from the town of Cowes is Gurnard Beach; a quaint, pebbled bay that is perfect for holidaymakers who aren’t massive fans of large and busy beaches. Facilities include a small stretch of beach huts and a children’s play area, and there is also a cafe and public toilets nearby.

Gurnard Beach is the perfect place to come and watch the sunset on the Isle of White and enjoy a very naturally peaceful part of the island that is favoured by couples and families. It’s also a great place to watch the range of boats that are coming to dock in Southampton Water, with large ships causing waves that lap right up on the beach.

If you want to stay near Gurnard Beach, The Woodvale is a stylish guest house with double and family rooms on offer for an excellent price.

Steephill Cove

If the busy beach at Ventnor is too crowded for your liking, Steephill Cove is a small bay only a short walk away that is a wonderful hidden spot on the Isle of Wight. The beach is only accessible on foot, but once you arrive you’ll be greeted by a curved stretch of sand, beach huts, fishermen’s cottages and totally unspoiled scenery.

This is a beach to visit at low tide, as when the water is high the sand completely disappears and there isn’t much to do around the bay. It’s a lovely place to bring children who want the freedom to explore a small, safe area, and also a great spot to visit as the sun is setting for a romantic stroll along the beach and a portion of chips on one of the rocks.

How many beaches are on the Isle of Wight?

There are numerous beaches of different sizes on the Isle of White, but fourteen of these are the most established on the island and have won awards for their cleanliness and the quality of the water. Eleven of these fourteen main beaches have received an ‘excellent’ rating from the Environmental Agency, the majority of which are featured in this guide.

Are there sandy beaches on the Isle of Wight?

Whilst the Isle of Wight is well known for the shingle beaches that are found along the coast, there are also a good number of soft, sandy beaches found around the island. Ryde Beach is the most popular sandy beach because of its huge size, but Yaverland Beach, Shanklin Beach and Sandown Beach are all also popular spots that have long, sand-covered beaches as well.

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About the Author

Charlotte Armitage

I’ve been writing content about travel since I graduated; a job that is continually adding new destinations to my future holiday list! As a reformed anxious traveller, research is an essential part of planning a trip, which is why I love writing guides that help other people discover everything they need to know about a place they’re going to visit. I consider myself a bit of a staycation expert, so I love writing about UK destinations. I’m also a big train travel enthusiast, so if you can get there by rail, I’m going to want to write about it! I’m a photographer as well as a writer, so one of my favourite things to do whilst travelling is to visit art galleries or seek out the best architecture or landscapes in a new destination and document them with my camera. The best place I’ve visited on my travels so far is Barcelona, but I also really enjoyed Amsterdam, Lucerne, and Edinburgh.

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Best Beaches Isle of Wight [11 Top Choices]

Are you ready to explore the picturesque coastlines and sandy shores of the Isle of Wight? With its diverse landscape, rich history, and just a short trip over from Portsmouth , this island is a perfect getaway for beach lovers, families, and couples alike.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the 11 best beaches on the Isle of Wight, showcasing what makes each of them unique and worth visiting. So, grab your sunscreen, pack your beach gear, and let’s dive in!

Best Beaches Isle of Wight

Table of Contents

11 Best Beaches Isle of Wight

Shanklin beach.

Located on the island’s eastern coast, Shanklin Beach is a popular choice for families and tourists alike. This golden sandy beach is known for its safe swimming conditions, clean waters, and vibrant esplanade. Enjoy a variety of activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply lounging in the sun.

Don’t forget to visit Shanklin Chine, a stunning gorge with lush gardens and a charming waterfall – a perfect spot for an afternoon stroll.

Sandown Beach

Adjacent to Shanklin Beach lies Sandown Beach, another family favorite with its miles of golden sands and calm waters. The beach is lined with a bustling promenade offering attractions like Sandown Pier, with its arcade games, amusement rides, and mini-golf course.

Visit the nearby Isle of Wight Zoo or the Dinosaur Isle museum for a fun-filled, educational day out.

Ventnor Beach

Nestled in a quaint Victorian town, Ventnor Beach offers a unique microclimate, making it one of the sunniest and warmest beaches on the island. The beach’s dark sand and shingle mix gives it a distinctive charm, and it’s perfect for rock pooling and beachcombing.

Take a break from the sun at one of the many beachfront cafes, and enjoy the local seafood delicacies. For the more adventurous, the nearby Ventnor Botanic Garden is a must-see attraction.

Compton Bay

Surfers, rejoice! Compton Bay, located on the island’s southwest coast, is renowned for its excellent surf conditions and dramatic cliff backdrops. This unspoiled, two-mile stretch of sandy beach is also ideal for beachcombing, with the chance to find ancient fossils along the shoreline.

Be sure to visit during low tide to uncover the dinosaur footprints etched into the rocks.

Known for its vast expanse of golden sands, Ryde Beach is the largest on the Isle of Wight. Its shallow waters make it perfect for swimming, and it’s a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts.

The nearby Ryde town offers various amenities, including shops, cafes, and a lively entertainment scene. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a ride on the island’s vintage steam railway, a fantastic way to explore the island’s picturesque countryside.

Freshwater Bay

Situated on the island’s western coast, Freshwater Bay is a hidden gem boasting dramatic white chalk cliffs and crystal-clear waters. This beach is perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, or simply taking in the stunning scenery.

The nearby Tennyson Down offers fantastic hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Yaverland Beach

Yaverland Beach, adjacent to Sandown, is a quieter alternative for those looking for a more peaceful beach experience. This sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Fossil enthusiasts will love exploring the beach’s rocky outcrops, where you might find ancient treasures.

For birdwatchers, the nearby Yaverland Coastal Path leads to the Culver Cliffs, home to a variety of nesting seabirds.

Bembridge Beach

Located on the easternmost tip of the Isle of Wight, Bembridge Beach is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a more secluded beach experience. The shoreline is a mix of sand, pebbles, and rock pools, making it perfect for beachcombing, exploring marine life, and fishing.

Take a walk along the Bembridge Trail to soak in the stunning views of the Solent, or visit the iconic Bembridge Lifeboat Station for a glimpse into the island’s maritime history.

Colwell Bay

Colwell Bay, on the northwest coast of the island, is a small, sheltered beach known for its breathtaking sunsets and panoramic views of the Solent. The beach’s soft golden sands and shallow waters make it ideal for families with young children.

Relax in one of the beach huts or indulge in some delicious local cuisine at the beachfront cafes. For a leisurely stroll, follow the coastal path to the nearby Totland Bay or the historic Needles Battery.

If you’re in the area, check out Yarmouth just up the road. This quaint little seaside town has a great pier and delicious places to eat including The George Hotel.

Totland Bay

Just a stone’s throw away from Colwell Bay, Totland Bay is a charming, quiet beach with crystal-clear waters and a mix of sand and shingle. Its tranquil setting makes it a popular choice for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty.

Take a walk along the seafront promenade, or venture further along the coastal path to the famous Needles and Alum Bay.

Gurnard Beach

This small, shingle and sand beach is situated on the northwestern coast of the island and offers picturesque views of the Solent and mainland. Gurnard Beach is a popular spot for sailing and watersports enthusiasts, as well as those looking for a peaceful retreat.

The nearby Gurnard Marsh is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a haven for birdwatchers. Enjoy a meal at the local beachfront pub, or watch the sunset from one of the iconic green beach huts.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a fun day out with the family, the Isle of Wight’s beaches offer something for everyone. From the bustling sands of Ryde and Shanklin to the serene shores of Totland Bay and St. Helen’s Beach, there’s a perfect beach for every visitor.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Isle of Wight beach adventure today! Alternatively, why not check out the best beaches on the Jurassic Coast or what Sussex has to offer , on the other side of Portsmouth.

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10 Best Beaches on the Isle of Wight

Which isle of wight beach is right for you.

The Isle of Wight, located off the south coast of England, is home to many of the award-winning beaches in the country. Featuring clear waters sheltered by towering cliffs, the beaches on this isle offer a tantalizing view to go with your summer activities, be it bathing, surfing, or sunbathing.

Whether you’re looking for a Mediterranean feel on your British vacation or you’re looking to admire the multi-coloured sand cliffs up close, the Isle of Wight has gotten you covered. Here are the top beaches on the Isle of Wight.

Ventnor Beach

Bask under the sun in this popular victorian resort.

Ventnor Beach is the place for you if you’re looking for a hint of the Mediterranean in your British beach vacation. As the isle’s southernmost beach, it’s sheltered by a series of cliffs that help in trapping the sun and giving the place its warm, sunny climate. Its golden sand peppered with red shingle and view of the blue sea provide a lovely backdrop as you relax on your lounger.

It also has a century-old wading pool for kids that features a miniature of the Isle of Wight, an malecon lined with pubs and restaurants, and the nearby Haven where you can get your fresh supply of seafood to feast on.

Location: Malecon, Ventnor, Isle of Wight PO38 1JT, UK

Admire the colorful sand cliffs

Alum Bay is arguably one of the most scenic destinations on the Isle of Wight, with its distinctive multicolored sand and the stunning chalk stack formation, The Needles. The sand from the cliffs comes in 21 shades, making for a beautiful souvenir that can be bought in beach shops all over the island.

The clear waters are a delight to swim in, and you’ll often find locals taking a dip. You’ll find boats moored during the day and fishermen taking a break at dusk. If you want to see The Needles and the 161-year-old Trinity lighthouse up close, you can take a boat trip from here.

Location: Alum Bay, Totland Bay, Isle of Wight PO39 0JD, UK

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Bembridge beach, explore the rock pools and take in the charming views.

Bembridge Beach on the east coast of the Isle of Wight is great for crabbing and cockling activities, with the rock pools providing an avenue for exploration for kids. Though mainly consisting of pebbles, stones, and shells, a sandy stretch appears when the tide is low, stretching as far as the Solent.

The beach features a lovely view of Bembridge Ledge, St. Helen’s Fort, and the expanse of the Solent to Portsmouth. It’s also a popular spot for dinghy sailing and other water sports, with clubs located in the nearby town.

Location: Beach Road, Bembridge, Isle of Wight PO35 5NZ, UK

Brook Beach

Hunt for fossils and dinosaur footprints in this rocky beach.

Brook Beach next to Compton Bay is a popular destination for both surfers and fossil hunters. The fossilized forest that appears at the foot of Hanover Point when the tide is low provides a unique incentive to visit the place. Dinosaur footprints have also been found on the sandstone ledge beyond Hanover Point.

The beach is a great spot for water sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing. Keep in mind, however, that bathing should be done with care as some spots are rocky.

Location: Military Road, Brook, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 4HF, UK

Compton Bay

Discover the isle of wight's best-kept secret.

Between Freshwater Bay and Brook are the scenic sandy beaches of Compton Bay. The Bay features over 2 miles of golden and dark sands, framed by white chalk cliffs and sandstone cliffs of variegated hues.

A favorite spot for surfers, water sports enthusiasts, and fossil hunters, it’s also good for walks and a picnic with the breathtaking view of Tennyson Down and The Needles. There are no facilities on the beach aside from the toilets and an ice cream van that sells snacks, beverages, and some beach toys in the summer.

Location: Military Road, Brook, Freshwater, Isle of Wight PO30 4HF, UK

Cowes and Gurnard

Take in the scenic sunset view in this shingle beach.

The beach in Cowes and Gurnard on the northwest coast of the isle features a great view of the Solent and is popular for water sports and sailing regattas. It’s also a great spot to watch the yachts race by and the liners and ships entering the harbor.

The sunsets on this sand and shingle beach are particularly stunning so make sure to stay out to enjoy the sight. Plus, there’s a popular café and restaurant on the eastern end, where you can enjoy some ice cream to cool off.

Location: Gurnard, Cowes, Isle of Wight PO31 8LE, UK

Freshwater Bay

Enjoy the day at this picturesque pebble beach.

The picturesque beach of Freshwater Bay is nestled under the towering chalk cliffs of West Wight. These cliffs and the various coastal formations make for a breathtaking backdrop for surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply walking down the sand and pebble beach.

During low tide, a rock ledge reveals itself on the eastern edge, which is good for rock pooling for children. At the bottom of the chalk cliffs are the smuggler’s caves, which you can explore with a local guide.

Location: Freshwater Bay, Freshwater, Isle of Wight PO40 9RA, UK

Relax on the gentle slopes and golden sand

When the tide is low, the beaches of Ryde reveal a wide expanse of golden sand, lighter in shade than the ones you usually find on surrounding beaches. Covering 6 miles from the pier to the Seaview village, you have ample space to enjoy a leisurely walk, play beach games, or build sandcastles.

Paddleboarding, kitesurfing, and horseriding are some of the activities you may see locals and visitors engaging in, depending on the weather and sea conditions. If you head to the east, you can find a bathing pool and a boating lake where you can ride the swan pedalos.

Location: Malecon, Ryde, Isle of Wight PO33 1JA, UK

Sandown Beach

Take a dip at this award-winning beach.

Sandown Beach on the southeast coast of the Isle of Wight boasts an impressive view of the calm waters of the bay. It’s sheltered by Culver’s white cliffs and Luccombe’s red cliffs to the north and south, making this beach a serene, safe haven. Bathing is a delight in this beach with its award-winning clean waters and soft, sandy seabed.

The pleasure pier provides a host of entertaining activities like arcade games, kid rides, and a golf course. For something more low-key, the malecon has souvenir shops and seaside cafés.

Location: Culver Parade, Sandown, Isle of Wight PO36 8AT, UK

Shanklin Beach

Discover a safe haven for sunbathing and water sports.

Shanklin Beach at Sandown Bay’s southernmost tip is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. But if you’re there to simply enjoy the sun, sand, and surf, you can safely do so as the beach has water safety zones.

Dunnose Point protects the beach from the winds so you can sunbathe and swim in peace. And if you’re in the mood for walking, head over to the foot of Shanklin Chine and have a drink at the quaint Fisherman Cottage pub.

Location: Malecon, Shanklin, Isle of Wight PO37 6BS, UK

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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The 15 Best Beaches On The Isle Of Wight

Some of the best beaches in all of Britain are found on the Isle of Wight . With approximately 57 miles of coastline, there are a lot of beaches to choose from, whether you’re looking for a classic stretch of yellow sand or a dramatic cove edged by cliffs and home to hundreds of rockpools.

The beaches you visit on the Isle of Wight might depend on where you are staying, but the whole island is small enough that most visitors tend to explore multiple locations during their stay. We’ve created this guide to the best beaches on the Isle of Wight to help you decide which you should visit, from the best spots for sandcastles to the top-rated watersports destinations.

Shanklin Beach

You’ll find Shanklin Beach at the southernmost tip of Sandown Bay on the southern coast of the island. It’s one of the Isle of Wight’s most established beaches that frequently wins the title of the ‘best beach on the Isle of Wight’, so if you’re looking for recommendations this spot comes with rave reviews.

The sand at Shanklin Beach is soft and golden and you’ll find plenty of classic British seaside attractions like beach huts, crazy golf and little cafes along the promenade. It’s a wonderful place for a day trip even if the weather isn’t particularly warm, with plenty of things to do for all ages.

Ventnor Beach

If you’re looking for that classic Victorian seaside atmosphere that is a part of so many popular British beaches, Ventnor on the southeast coast of the Isle of Man will be right up your street. Made up of red shingle and golden sand, the beach is overlooked by a promenade and a row of charming beach huts and is only a short walk away from a range of beachfront amusements, cafes and ice cream shops.

Ventnor Beach is also often thought of as one of the Isle of Wight’s best beaches because of its position on the southern side of the island, giving it an almost tropical microclimate that is absolutely blissful on summer days.

Compton Bay

The beach at Compton Bay is two miles long and backed by white chalk and sandstone cliffs that can only be traversed via three sets of stairs dotted along the coastline. It’s a beautiful beach that is ideal for watersports and swimming, but the facilities here are limited so you’ll need to pack a picnic if you’re planning on spending the day.

The rockpools along the shore are one of the main attractions at Compton Bay, and it’s known as being one of the best places in the Isle of Wight for taking a net and exploring these small marine habitats. You might also spot a fossil or two, if you’re lucky.

Sandown Beach

Sandown Beach is another place to visit in the Isle of Wight if you’re after a classic seaside experience, with a charming ‘bucket and spade’ atmosphere that makes it one of the island’s most popular resort towns. The beach itself is soft and sandy, sheltered by cliffs on both sides which protect it from bad weather and means it’s a real sun trap on hot days.

The sheltered nature of Sandown beach also means that the water is really calm, so it’s a great place for swimming. There is also a range of classic beachfront amusements just up from the sand, including beach huts, crazy golf and plenty of fish and chip shops.

Gurnard Beach

Gurnard Beach is found only a short walk away from Cowes on the north of the island. It’s quite a small beach compared to most of the others on the Isle of Wight, but there is still a surprising amount of facilities and attractions nearby including beach huts, a promenade, a children’s playground and several cafes.

The sunsets at Gurnard are renowned across the island, so it’s an ideal place to come in the evening, sit on the shingle and sand beach, and watch the sun slip into the ocean.

Bembridge Beach

Located on the east coast of the island in view of Bembridge Ledge and St. Helen’s Fort, Bembridge is a very pebbly beach until low tide when a smooth strip of sand is revealed beside the water. It’s a great place to enjoy a bit of beachcombing and is also favoured by early morning swimmers who like to get out in the water before the rest of the crowds arrive.

Bembridge Beach is also known for being a top spot for sailing thanks to its proximity to multiple boating clubs in the nearby town.  

Colwell Bay

Colwell Bay is located on the west side of the Isle of Wight and has a reputation for being one of the cleanest parts of the coast on the whole island. It’s a popular place for swimming, snorkelling and other watersports because of this, and is a great place to bring a family because of its proximity to a large car park. 

There’s a long promenade behind the sand and shingle beach at Colwell Bay, so once you’ve enjoyed your time down by the water you can stroll along to Totland Bay and enjoy the beach there as well.

Steephill Cove

Steephill Cove is a small bay only a short walk away from the busy beach at Ventnor, and is a bit of a hidden gem on the Isle of Wight that many locals try and keep to themselves. Whilst the beach itself is only visible at low tide, it’s still worth a visit for the totally unspoiled scenery and a bit of peace and quiet in the evening or early morning.

This beach is only accessible by foot, revealing a curved little bay with beach huts, charming cottages and a short stretch of promenade where you can enjoy an ice cream or cone of chips.

Freshwater Bay

Freshwater Bay is located within an Area of Outstanding natural beauty on the western tip of the Isle of Wight, and is certainly one of the most visually stunning spots on the coast of the island. The beach itself is a mixture of flint and pebbles at high tide, whilst low tide reveals a strip of sand and leaves a great array of rock pools that are ready and waiting to be explored.

This is a popular place in the Isle of Wight for watersports, so expect to see paddleboarders, kayakers and surfers out in the waves if you visit.

Alum Bay is best known for its famous multicoloured sand, formed by the vast variety of different kinds of shingle that have been deposited on the shore by the sea. Not only does this unique feature make it a particularly picturesque place to visit, but the rock formation known as The Needles also stretched out from the cliffs into the sea is a very well-photographed spot.

The water at Alum Bay is really clear so it’s a great place for swimming. You’re not allowed to take any of the coloured sand home with you, but you can buy special souvenir bottles in plenty of the shops nearby.

St Helen’s Beach

St Helen’s Beach is also known by locals as St Helens Duver and is one of the best Isle of Wight beaches for rock pooling. With sand dunes up by the promenade and rocky stretches of beach revealed when the tide goes out, there are plenty of habitats to discover if you time a walk with low tide and bring a fishing net or bucket with you.

The Duver Beach at St Helen’s is now owned by the National Trust and is a great place to enjoy a walk and see some of the coastal wildlife that lives in this area.

Yaverland Beach

A lot of the criteria for the best beach on the Isle of Man is met by Yaverland Beach. Soft golden sand? Clean and shallow water? Dogs allowed all year round? Check, check and check.

This beach is located between Sandown and the Culver Down cliffs and is favoured by surfers, paddle boarders and swimmers because of the calm and clear water. The cliffs nearby also mean that this is a great place to come if you want to go fossil hunting along the sand, so you’ll often see families setting out on walks from the car park just up from the water.

If you’re looking for a beach in the Isle of Wight where you can simply sit and watch the world go by, the beach at Cowes is an excellent spot. It’s a shingle beach without any particular standout features, but there are several shelters built that make the ideal place to sit on your own or with a friend as the sun sets, or during the day if you want to watch yachts and larger boats cruise past.

Appley Beach

Appley Beach is found in Ryde in the Isle of Wight and is a great place to take small children who want to spend a day by the sea. The sand is soft and golden and there is a range of facilities close by including a cafe and a playground, so you can set yourself up for the day and have everything you might need in easy reach.

At low tide the sea retreats a long way off down the beach, leaving lots of room to walk along the sand or play games away from the water. Even on busy days in the middle of summer, there’s plenty of room for everyone.

Finally, Ryde Beach is often recommended if you’re looking for the best sandy beaches on the Isle of Wight because of the six miles of smooth golden sand that is notably lighter in colour than most other places on the island, making it a particularly photogenic spot. With a long promenade, beachside facilities and shallow waters that are ideal for paddling, it’s a fantastic all-rounder that is ideal for days out.

Found on the northeast coast of the island, Ryde Beach is famous for its massively long pier that was built in order to ferry passengers from the ocean to the shore when the tide was all the way out, saving them a long walk across the sand.

As one of the UK’s original seaside resort destinations , the Isle of Wight is a fantastic place to visit if you’re looking to spend a holiday beside the sea. With a brilliant selection of classic resort towns as well as more secluded beaches and surfing bays, there’s something for everyone featured in this list, which should make choosing which to visit much easier.

If you’re planning a holiday to the Isle of Wight and are looking for somewhere to stay, why not check out our range of self-catering properties on the island .

One thought on “ The 15 Best Beaches On The Isle Of Wight ”

So nice to see Ryde and Appley Beach included, they’re so under-rated and the sunsets are amazing. I have the most incredible phots from Appley beach looking towards Ryde. Not to mention that Appley beach is dog friendly all year round.

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Best beaches on the Island

Top five isle of wight beaches, the best beaches for..., dog-friendly beaches, map of isle of wight beaches, getting to the island, isle of wight beaches.

• Things to do on the Isle of Wight

Beaches on the Isle of Wight

When you’re on the coast, why not make a dash for the beach? The Isle of Wight is famed for its beaches and whichever part of the Island you choose to visit, you can be sure to witness some of the best coastal views that the UK has to offer.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect day out with the kids (and the dog!), want to explore some hidden coves or enjoy some adrenaline-pumping water sports, the Diamond Isle has a tonne of stunning locations ideal for a multitude of seaside activities.

Making memories by the seaside on the Isle of Wight is just a ferry away – book your sailing today.

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You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to picking out glorious beaches on the Isle of Wight.

If you’re a thrill seeker looking for somewhere to surf, you’ll be best off on the south of the Island, where the current from the English Channel helps create some sizeable swells. Compton Bay is by far and away the most popular place to ride the waves, pulling in surfers from across the UK all year round.

For something a little more serene, with Mediterranean vibes, check out Priory Bay . The sandy beach is backed by nearly eight acres of National Trust woodland and visiting boats often drop anchor on its shores – perfect for that opportune Instagram snap.

If you’re only popping over for the day and time is tight, Appley Beach has everything you need. A vast expanse of sand on the north of the Island, it’s only a few moments’ walk from our FastCat port in Ryde . On a clear day, you can see right across the Solent to the mainland.

With so many beautiful beaches to choose from on the Island, it can be hard to pick which one to visit. So we’ve put in the hard work (if you can call beach testing hard work), and rounded up our favourite five to make things a little easier for you.

1. Appley Beach

One of the most popular Island beaches, partly because of its convenient location next to our FastCat port, Appley is a stunning expanse of sand that stretches almost as far as the eye can see.

Backed by beach huts sitting below green trees, it’s one of the most picturesque places on the Island to relax and soak in the sun.

The perfect beach destination for families with young children, it’s home to a kids’ play area and plenty of ice cream choices.

2. Compton Bay

Winner of the Marine Conservation Award, Compton beach on the Isle of Wight is a popular beach for locals, tourists and watersports enthusiasts alike.

Known for its clean sands and picturesque views, the water can get a little choppy at times, but this is what makes it so great for surfers and windsurfers.

It’s also a must-visit for fossil hunters as, at low tide, large dinosaur footprints can be seen imprinted on the rock ledges.

3. Freshwater Bay

On the western coast of the Isle of Wight, Freshwater Bay is loved by all.

Whether you’re looking to get out on the water with a surfboard and catch some waves, try coasteering through the cliffs and caves or simply relax with a picnic on the beach, there’s something for everyone here.

The small pebble bay is perfect for rockpooling so make sure you bring a bucket and net for the kids.

4. Steephill Cove

Hidden away in one of the most quaint areas of the Isle of Wight, Steephill Cove in Ventnor can only be accessed by foot so is ideal for getting away from it all and escaping the crowds.

It’s perfect for the children to build sandcastles or for those who want to laze on a deckchair whilst watching the local fishermen catch delicious lobster and crab – you can even try some of these fresh daily catches at a number of small restaurants and cafes right on the beach.

If you’re visiting, make sure to take a trip through Ventnor Botanic Garden on your way down.

5. Sandown Beach

A multiple award-winner, Sandown Beach is a well-known stretch of sand that’s often viewed as a traditional ‘bucket and spade’ English holiday beach.

It’s backed by a packed esplanade, full of ice cream parlous, arcades and shops, and the seafront is topped off with the delights of Sandown Pier.

The clean, soft sand and calm waters are ideal for a family day at the beach. There are good toilet facilities available and a whole host of restaurants, cafes, bars and ice cream kiosks for when the kids get a little peckish.

Everyone loves a beach, but while some of you may want a quiet cove for some peaceful bathing, others will want a vibrant stretch of coast with a host of family amenities. That’s why we created our Isle of Wight beach guide, a list of beaches that are best to suited to all kinds of activities, from rock pooling to water sports.

The Isle of Wight is a pooch’s paradise and the beaches are the best bit. Dogs love a brisk walk across the sand and the opportunity to paddle in the lapping waves.

Across the Island, there are a variety of beaches that allow dogs all year round and a selection that are dog-friendly only in the off-season months, between October and April. Those non-summer months are a great time to visit as you’ll often find you have the beach all to yourself and your four-legged friend.

Beaches allowing dogs from 1 October to 30 April

Colwell Bay

Cowes Beach

East Cowes Beach

Freshwater Bay

Gurnard Beach

Sandown Beach

Shanklin Beach

Springvale Beach

Ventnor Beach

Yaverland Beach

Beaches allowing dogs all year

Alum Bay (dogs must be on a lead)

Colwell Bay (to the right of the slipway)

Bembridge Beach

Seagrove Beach

Ryde Beach (to the left of Ryde Pier)

Whitecliff Bay

Yaverland (to the left of the car park)

Chilton Chine

Steephill Cove (dogs must be on a lead)

The beauty of the Isle of Wight is that you’re never far from a beach. Use our interactive Explorer map to find the stretch of coast nearest to you, or to plan out your perfect beach hopping getaway.

You won’t just find beaches on Explorer, though – use the filter toggles to find events, attractions and even places to stay.

Getting to the Isle of Wight is easy with Wightlink. We offer three convenient ferry routes linking Hampshire with the Island , with crossing times from just 22 minutes.

Our foot passenger-only FastCat service links Portsmouth with Ryde , a beautiful destination to the north of the Island. Here, you’ll find the stunning sandy expanse of Appley Beach , ideal for a quick beach day getaway.

If you’re bringing the car, you can cross the Solent on our Portsmouth – Fishbourne route. This will leave you only a short drive from the east coast of the Island, which is full of beautiful beaches.

You can also travel on our Lymington – Yarmouth route , the gateway to the west of the Island. This is a great route to choose if you’re heading to Freshwater Bay or Compton Bay , both popular beaches with surfers.

Isle of Wight travel guide: Where to eat, drink, walk and stay on England’s biggest island

I f you set sail from England ’s southern shore to the quietly cool Isle of Wight for a staycation, you’ll find a destination that values the simple pleasures: food , fresh air and good old-fashioned fun. The Hampshire isle, once the home of dinosaurs and now a haven for the illusive red squirrel, marches to a gentler beat than the mainland, with over half of its countryside now recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Beyond pocket-sized villages like Godshill that epitomise “chocolate-box”, a population of almost 142,000 call The Needles’ famed land of military forts and royal residences home. Classic beach days full of salt and sand meet the reinvented style of seafront restaurants and luxe hotels on the island that’s going from musty to modern.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning an Isle of Wight holiday .

Best time to travel for price, weather and crowds

While weather-dependent ferry crossings may not make it the easiest locale to access on a drab winter day, the Isle of Wight is rich with seasonal delights from March to November .

Notable as the southern shore that basks in some of the UK ’s sunniest days, springs are green and autumns orange before big-name headline acts descend to serenade the island and kickstart the al fresco activities at the Isle of Wight Festival in June.

With August comes Cowes Week, the sailing regatta that draws a nautical-loving crowd of over 100,000 in the height of the summer holidays. Accommodation prices, slow traffic and a dearth of car parking spots tend to peak – it’s always best to book ferries in advance for the lowest price.

Read more on England travel :

• Best hotels with cookery schools in the UK
• How to spend a day in King’s Cross, north London’s most exciting neighbourhood
• The ultimate Lake District guide

Where to stay

With parapets and battlements from Henry VIII’s lifetime,  Ryde Castle’s  grand four-poster beds and ambient dark wood accents are an affordable option situated among a hotchpotch of traditional shop fronts, decorative stucco and Georgian townhouses.

Warm and welcoming, The Seaview Hotel , in the upmarket coastal village of Seaview, has comfortable, naval-themed rooms, a dining room strewn with warships and a swish restaurant, The Aquitania, for inventive meals created from local produce by head chef Mark Wyatt.

One of the island’s oldest, The Royal Hotel is perched on the cliffside of Victorian resort Ventnor and has sprawling sea views, contemporary modern rooms and a choice of tiered afternoon teas and seafood risottos in The Royal Kitchen.

For glamping at its best,  Tom’s Eco Lodges  at Tapnell Farm promotes hassle-free luxury in its safari tents, wood cabins, modulogs, eco pods and geo domes – plus wood-fired hot tubs, pizza ovens and sunset views.

Eco pods for two adults from £138 per night.

• Read more of our reviews of the best hotels in the Isle of Wight

Visit Osborne House

Queen Victoria’s seaside retreat in East Cowes, the grand Osborne House , fuses Victorian opulence with Italianate gardens for a visually and culturally enriching afternoon spent glimpsing royal life – with pinkies raised while sipping tea in the terraced cafe.

Travel on the Steam Railway

It’s all aboard the Isle of Wight Steam Railway for a charming journey back in time as you puff through the countryside, rolling from Havenstreet to Smallbrook Junction and on to Wootton in ornate Victorian and Edwardian carriages, with or without the kids.

Dine at The Garlic Farm

Garlic chutney, garlic olives and garlic vodka strongly season Arreton Valley’s  Garlic Farm  with its pungent namesake and tractor-trailer tours, with a side of garlicky taste tests in the restaurant. Well worth the necessary breath mint post-visit.

Surf at Compton Bay

Surf’s up at Compton Bay on the Isle of Wight’s west coast, an exposed beach with reliable breaks that peak in the winter. The popular spot gets winds from the southeast and northwest, and surf schools including Eddie’s Surf Academy are on-hand to teach beginners how to stand up on the board.

Try the UK’s oldest rides

At Ventnor’s  Blackgang Chine , the UK’s oldest family theme park, you can ride, scream and dance your way through 180 years of thrills and games, with summer firework extravaganzas and Halloween spookfests a family-friendly highlight of the island calendar.

Walk with an alpaca

It’ll be hard not to fall for the residents of  West Wight Alpacas  on a trek of the farm’s 23 acres of countryside with a woolly Suri alpaca as a companion. Whether walking with Larry, Oreo or even Amadeus, you’ll learn all about the South American animals on a scenic stroll with your unique new pal.

Cruise the Needles

A trip to Alum Bay not only offers an action-packed high-speed ride with  The Needles Pleasure Cruises  – for a whistle-stop tour of the water’s iconic chalk stacks – but also a steep trip down the colourful cliffs on the famed chairlift, giving you the chance to see the three landmarks up close for yourself. 

Where to eat

If you’re getting off the ferry in Yarmouth, an  Off the Rails  brunch featuring the fish finger sandwich to end all sandwiches in the town’s old railway station sets the tone for a foodie island affair. Just down the road, pick-me-up coffees in  Chessell Pottery Cafe’s  homemade ceramics are sure to warm the cockles on a rainy day.

Putting on a seasonal showstopper,  The Crab Shed’s  famed crab and mackerel pasties are well worth the downhill climb to Steephill Cove for a seafood lunch, or if its pan-Asian dishes that make your mouth water, the  Smoking Lobster  on Ventnor’s nearby esplanade (along with boozy sister bar, the  Drunken Lobster ) never misses a chance for a flavour explosion.

The Duck  in Ryde serves an elevated taste of seasonal British plates, including slow-cooked beef stews and roast pork – complete with crackling, of course – taking local classics to contemporary new levels.

As Totland braces for the glam new arrival of The Pier in 2024, The Hut  in Colwell Bay still reigns as the seafood spot in West Wight for stylish surf ‘n’ turfs and unrivalled sunset views.

Vegetarians are looked after on the island with  PEACH Vegan Kitchen & Zero Waste Store  in Newport stacking meat-free “Tricken” burgers high with vegan “cheeze” and slaws.

What’s a trip to the British seaside without a fish and chips feast?  The Blue Crab’s  beer-battered cod and generous chip portions are ideal for a beachfront picnic in Yarmouth. For a pizza fix,  Gusto2Go’s  sourdoughs bring a wood-fired pizzazz to Freshwater Bay in summer.

Where to drink

Holding the title of the UK’s oldest commercial vineyard,  Adgestone Vineyard’s  tantalising wine tastings swirl through full-bodied reds, crisp glasses of blush and a sparkling blue for just £20pp, including a self-guided tour of the cellars and vines, and live music performances.

Wood beams, a crackling fire and a hearty roast dinner menu – the traditional pub essentials – make  The Red Lion  in Freshwater an ideal watering hole for a post- ale trail  pint or a warming glass of rouge.

Fancy an al fresco cocktail? The George  in Yarmouth has a waterfront beach bar to rival the Mediterranean (on balmy summer nights, at least), complemented by a masterful menu of classic drinks.

You’ll find it hard to miss the local Mermaid Gin on your Isle of Wight holiday, and  The Mermaid Bar Distillery  in Ryde is the spot to sample a fine G&T or a Mermaid Margarita while learning all about the distillery process.

Where to walk and cycle

Not one but two annual  walking festivals  take place on the island, in October and May, to encourage outdoors enthusiasts to tread the more than 500 miles of footpaths that the Isle of Wight has to offer.

Keen walkers can get their steps in on the  Tennyson Trail , an invigorating 14-mile hike from Carisbrooke to Alum Bay – best planned with a well-deserved refuel at  Dimbola Tea Rooms  – or embrace nature on the gentle 3.6-mile Newtown  Estuary Walk,  bound to feature sightings of visiting birds and rare butterflies. For a more relaxed island rendezvous, a scenic stroll around  Shanklin Chine’s  historic gorge comes alive at night as the narrow paths, streams and waterfalls are illuminated at dusk from April to November.

The  Red Squirrel  cycle trail weaves through 32 miles of largely traffic-free countryside if you’re looking for a family-friendly pedal. Alternatively, cyclists ready to give it a  lot  of leg can take to the winding Military Road on two wheels for a 65-mile  round lap  of the island in either direction.

Where to shop

High Street hits, eco-conscious outlets and indie boutiques – specialists in all things nautical – dot Newport, Cowes, and Ryde, but it’s the tucked-away traders that will lighten your wallet.

Quirky home furnishings and one-of-a-kind gifts litter  Oasis  in Brading, and if you’re still on the hunt for a keepsake, you’ll find a trail of artisan shops covering everything from glass sculptures to bespoke leather belts and ceramic ghosts at  Arreton Barns , the island’s largest craft centre.

Peruse the fine jewellery collection of the  Isle of Wight Pearl  on Military Road for timeless and statement pieces with a side of sprawling views of the southwest coast or venture east to  Cowes Arcade  for a bric-a-brac fusion of chutney, socks and mystical memorabilia.

Getting there

City dwellers after a country escape can take a  South Western Railway  train to reach Southampton or Lymington Pier from London Waterloo in less than two hours before setting sail across the Solent.

With  Wightlink , that’s a 45-minute journey from Lymington to Yarmouth or Portsmouth to Fishbourne from £44.50 per vehicle and a £27.20 return ticket for adult foot passengers. Red Funnel  ferries sail from Southampton to East Cowes in under an hour from £28.00 each way or 30 minutes for foot passengers travelling on a Red Jet from £12.30. Portsmouth’s passenger hovercraft arrives in Ryde in just 10 minutes; £31.50 for an adult return ticket.

How to get around

A car provides the most flexibility for reaching remote beaches and the inland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with Red Funnel’s  heritage driving trail  a great way to see all of the island’s historic sites.

Thankfully, ferry foot passengers need not worry.  Southern Vectis  buses connect the main towns of Newport, Cowes, Ryde and Yarmouth, even offering Breezer  open-top bus tours  to top attractions and a  Christmas Lights  journey around the island’s best festive displays.

Read more on the best Isle of Wight hotels

From news to politics, travel to sport, culture to climate – The Independent has a host of free newsletters to suit your interests. To find the stories you want to read, and more, in your inbox, click here .

THE 10 BEST Isle of Wight Beaches

Beaches in isle of wight.

• Gear Rentals
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Steephill Cove Beach

2. Shanklin Beach

3. Ryde Beach

4. Steve's Beach

5. Yaverland Beach

6. Appley Beach

7. Compton Beach

8. Ventnor Beach

9. Freshwater Bay

10. Sandown Beach

11. Gurnard Beach

12. Sandown Beach Hire

What travelers are saying

• Shanklin Beach
• Steve's Beach
• Yaverland Beach
• Appley Beach
• Steephill Cove Beach
• Freshwater Bay
• Compton Beach

Best beaches, Isle of Wight: where to go for what!

The Isle of Wight has fantastic beaches, but they’re all different. Read on to find out about the best beaches on the Isle of Wight and which is for you!

Take a look at our suggestions based on what you’re looking for in a beach.

Or start with an overview of the Isle of Wight’s best beaches. We’ve also given links to our favourite places to stay nearby.

Tip: If you’re using this to help decide where to stay, you’ll also want to take a look at our guide on where to stay on the Isle of Wight . 

A bit about the best beaches, Isle of Wight

North isle of wight beaches, gurnard, cowes, east cowes, osborne beaches.

Busy and popular with families. Cowes* is one of the Island’s smartest towns and the regattas in August make it hectic at that time of year.

• Beaches are sand and shingle, though  Cowes  and East Cowes don’t have much of a beach. You need to head out of town for that.
• ​Views are across the Solent, so it’s a busy, more industrial skyline than to the south of the island. Lots of boats and large ships to spot.
• There’s a concrete seafront promenade between Gurnard and Cowes, which is great for buggies and bikes. There’s also a shorter esplanade in East Cowes.
• There’s a small playground behind the beach huts at Gurnard beach.

* To explain, there’s Cowes and East Cowes. They are separated by a river with no bridge (only a chain ferry), so it’s important to understand the distinction!

See our favourite place to stay in the North Wight here

East Isle of Wight beaches

Ryde, appley, puckpool park, springvale, seagrove, priory bay, st helens, bembridge, whitecliff bay, yaverland, sandown, lake, shanklin beaches.

Lots of beaches in this stretch, from quiet little bays (for example Whitecliff Bay and Seagrove Bay) to busy, expansive sandy beaches (for example Ryde, Sandown and Shanklin).

• The beaches at Ryde and Appley are wide and sandy, thought by many to be the best on the island. At low tide, the sand stretches far out to sea, with little pools that are perfect for exploring. The beaches are backed by archetypal pleasure beach attractions. Near the pier, you’ll find an ice rink, bowling alley and traditional fairground play area with a pirate theme, helter-skelter and trampolines. To the east, there’s a large boating lake full of swan pedalos and Waterside, an indoor/outdoor swimming pool.
• ​On the outskirts of Ryde, a stone’s throw from the beach, is Puckpool Park . Housed in a Victorian Fortification Battery once used to guard the Solent, the park is now a historic monument. It has sea views, a children’s play area, tennis courts, mini golf, petanque, and beautiful gardens.

Our family love Bembridge beach, which is quite a contrast to the bustle of Ryde. The lifeboat station and café by the beach are particular favourites. Pick between a golden sand beach on one side of town and a more rocky beach with rock pools.

Sandown is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. It’s much wider than some of the island’s beaches, is in an impressive, sweeping bay and has proper sand. Other highlights:

• The dinosaur museum is excellent and very close to the front.
• Our young children (2 and 4) adored the rides on the pier, even if they were a bit young (tip: keep walking – it gets much better when you finally get past the slot machines and escape outside).
• The Yaverland end of the beach is dedicated to watersports and is often quieter.
• Don’t expect much from the town itself. Sadly, it’s quite run down, both in the town centre and along the front.
• To the south, Sandown merges into Lake which merges into Shanklin . Shanklin town and esplanade are smaller and a bit smarter than Sandown, though we don’t think the bay is as pretty. Our kids loved Jungle Jims and the dinosaur playground. Follow the sea wall south, and you find smaller coves and Shanklin Chine.

See our favourite place to stay in the East Wight here

South Isle of Wight beaches

Bonchurch, ventnor, steephill cove, reeth bay.

• Chalk cliffs and rugged, quiet bays.  Attractive beaches but many take some effort to get to.
• Ventnor  was a popular Victorian resort and offers a more gentrified experience than Shanklin and Sandown to the east. It’s built on the side of a cliff, so bring your climbing legs.
• ​We love Ventnor beach . Its red shingle and golden sand sit at the bottom of a series of cliffs that help make this one of the sunniest, warmest parts of the island. The esplanade above the beach has some nice places to eat, including pubs, cafés and an excellent restaurant. There’s also a fab kids’ paddling pool (shaped around a map of the Isle of Wight), an attractive Victorian bandstand-like structure, a fish market (next to the bandstand), Art Deco buildings – and a very steep road back up to the town!
• To the northeast is Bonchurch , a pretty village but small, so don’t expect beach facilities – other than a large car park.
• There’s a nice promenade along the sea between Bonchurch and Steephill Cove (via Ventnor). Perfect for kids on bikes and parents with buggies.
• Steephill Cove  is to the south-west of Ventnor. It’s small and often compared to Cornwall’s craggy hidden coves. It is certainly a charming place, perhaps partly due to the old buildings dotted around the Cove, many of which are upmarket holiday rentals and cafés well targeted to their Boden-crowd clientele. No amusement arcades here thank you very much! The fact you have to walk in also adds to the novelty. You can stroll in along the promenade from Ventnor, park in the private car park on Steephill Road and walk down, or tack it onto a visit to Ventnor Botanic gardens, park there and walk in from the gardens. When we visited, the tide was in, and there was hardly a beach to speak of. What there was was gritty crushed shell rather than sand. However, it was still a pretty place for a picnic lunch and an ice cream after.

See our favourite place to stay in the South Wight here

West Isle of Wight beaches

Yarmouth, colwell bay, totland bay, alum bay, freshwater bay, compton bay, brook beach.

• Towering cliffs and stunning beaches. Located in one of the least populated parts of the island, these are some of the quietest beaches on the island. Many are great for fossil hunting, just take care as rockfalls are common.
• Yarmouth has a very small shingle beach. Nothing to write home about, though it’s a fun place to watch ships and boats from, especially during Cowes week.
• Compton Bay  offers a pretty, quiet, two-mile stretch of contrasting golden and dark sands. It’s backed by crumbly sandstone cliffs, and you get great views of the white chalk cliffs at Freshwater in the distance. It’s a good spot for dinosaur fossils too! Don’t expect loads of facilities, though at Hanover Point there are toilets – and often there’s an ice cream van.
• Freshwater Bay  is a pretty beach just to the south of Freshwater town. It’s pebbly though some sand appears at low tide, together with a rock ledge that makes for good rockpooling.
• We were underwhelmed by Alum Bay . Notions of brightly coloured vertically striped cliffs were met with the reality of muddy brown to muddy yellow bands of rock. The beach is made up of large pebbles. On the upside, the chairlift down is fun (actually, slightly terrifying if, as we did, you have a 1.5-year old on the seat beside you with not belt/safety harness etc and it’s quite windy)! There are also great views of the famous Needles rocks and lighthouse. There are an array of activities above the beach, including a glass blowing factory and Alum Bay theme park.

What do you want from your beach?

Note: This is not an exhaustive list of the Isle of Wight beaches offering these things! We’ve just tried to pick out some of the best beaches for the things you might be looking for. It also gives an idea of the huge variety on offer.

Found this guide useful?

• We’d love to hear from you – comment below or drop us a line .
• Check out our ultimate guide to cycling Isle of Wight , our Isle of Wight ride guides, town/resort guide and other articles on the Island, below.

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The best Isle of Wight beaches with kids

The Isle of Wight is one of my favourite places for a UK family holiday – not least because you can do everything from finding fossils to building sandcastles on some of the many Isle of Wight beaches with kids.

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We’ve found beaches with playgrounds next to them, Blue Flag beaches, beaches with smuggler’s caves, surf beaches and even Queen Victoria’s own private beach… And while the sun seems to shine more on the island than on the mainland, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained even if you didn’t bring your bucket and spade.

All in all, there’s 57 miles of coastline to choose from, so I’ve picked the 14 best Isle of Wight beaches with kids, whatever your plans on the sand.

Contents - click to jump to a section

Best for sandcastles

Appley beach, ryde.

One of our favourite beaches on the Isle of Wight, this long stretch of open sand is often quieter than nearby Ryde, and there’s always something to do, whatever the time of day or weather.

When it’s breezy, pack a kite and sprint along the sand, or when it’s sunny, you can spend hours making sandcastles while gazing back to Portsmouth and the Spinnaker tower on the mainland.

If the tide is out, the sand seems to stretch away forever, often dotted with sand worm casts: my daughter had endless fun splashing in the waves, before darting between them all, concocting stories of herself as a giant in the land of the sand worms.

Rather more prosaically, there’s also a lovely play area just off the beach, toilets, parking, a beach cafe and it’s easy to walk along the seafront here as well.

The section past Appley Tower is dog-friendly year-round, as well as on the eastern side from October to April (there are restrictions between May and September).

Sandown beach

If you’re looking for a traditional sandy beach on the Isle of Wight to break out your bucket and spade, find a few amusements, eye up the pier and hire a deckchair, it’s hard to beat the award-winning Sandown beach.

Ideal if you’re visiting with younger kids and toddlers, it’s right off the high street, so you’re not far from toilets and shops if you’ve run out of something essential, plus there are stands selling drinks, snacks and fish and chips.

There’s also a playground and minigolf nearby at the Sandham Gardens end, towards Yaverland.

Dogs are allowed year-round on the section from the slipway at the end of Yaverland car park heading away from the town.

For my beach essentials with kids , check out my top picks for fun on the sand

Shanklin beach

One of the best-known Isle of Wight beaches, along with Sandown, it’s another traditional spot with plenty of amusements to go with your sand – although it’s also one of the busier places, especially in summer.

Calm water means it’s great for swimming with kids, or you can also hire pedalos and kayaks, plus an arcade, funfair, and crazy golf courses (watch out for the waterfall of ‘blood’ at the pirate themed course), along with cafes, shops and toilets.

No dogs are allowed from the start of May to the end of September.

If Sandown and Shanklin are too busy, Lake beach in between is often slightly quieter – it’s a short walk from the Esplanade at either end, but it’s also a great option for kids interested in trying watersports, with lessons on the calmer waters here.

Ventnor beach

The southernmost holiday beach on the Isle of Wight, Ventnor completes the trio of traditional seaside sands on the island. Once a Victorian seaside resort, it’s sheltered by the cliffs – there is parking at the bottom of the steep hillside – with shingle and sand to play on.

You can hire the vintage beach huts, as well as deckchairs and wind breaks, but one of the biggest attractions for kids is the Isle of Wight paddling pool. Set around a replica of the Isle of Wight, it shows the island’s major towns, with shallow water to splash in around the edge.

On the beach itself, the best swimming is in the middle of the sands, and at low tide, there’s a ridge of rocks for older kids to clamber on.

No dogs allowed from the start of May to the end of September.

Colwell Bay

If you’re looking for a quiet Isle of Wight beach with kids, Colwell Bay is a good one to consider, with sand and shingle, and calm, clear waters for swimming – it’s also got the reputation of being the cleanest of the island.

You can also try watersports here, including windsurfing and canoeing, or hire beach huts and deck chairs as you relax and look across to Hurst Castle on the mainland. There’s also parking, cafe and beach shop.

If you fancy a walk from beach to beach, the promenade on the sea wall here leads down to Totland Bay. The beach there all but vanishes at high tide, but the water is an incredible shade of turquoise blue.

Osborne House

In the north of the island, you’ll find a beach fit for a Queen. Quite literally. The beach at Osborne House was where Queen Victoria and her family used to come, and where the royal children learned to swim.

You can still see Victoria’s Bathing Machine: used to preserve her modesty, so no-one would see her in a swimming costume, it has a changing room and proper toilet inside – and she could be pulled back to the beach after a dip.

You can walk down from the house in around 20 minutes (or at certainly times, there’s a shuttle bus) and it’s a lovely place to paddle and swim, as well as watching yachts in the Solent, looking out for seabirds, and you might even spot a red squirrel in the woods behind.

During the summer, there’s often traditional games and entertainment, plus you can buy ice-cream made by local dairies.

No dogs are allowed on the beach at Osborne House year-round.

Steephill Cove

You have to make more of an effort to get to this pretty little beach, but that does mean that you avoid the crowds you’ll find on some of the other stretches of sand in this part of the island.

The closest parking (on Love Lane, or in the Botanical gardens if you’re planning to combine both) is about five minutes away, although you can also walk from Ventnor if you’re feeling energetic – allow around half an hour along the cliff path.

The pay-off is a quiet little beach where you can see fishermen unload their catch, swim in the calm waters and build a sandcastle. There are toilets and cafes which are usually open at lunchtime and afternoon, although these may be closed out of season.

This is another dog-friendly beach on the Isle of Wight from October to April. Dogs are allowed between May and September before 9.30am and after 5.30pm but must be on a lead.

Best for fossil hunting

Yaverland beach.

Another long open stretch of sand, running from the edge of Sandown beach, the biggest attraction on Yaverland beach isn’t sandcastles but dinosaurs.

Wander along from Dinosaur Isle and the Isle of Wight zoo , you can spot a fossilised dinosaur footprint – from the time when the beach was a lake – as well as bones and coprolites, not to mention crystals growing in the rock and stones left over from a Tudor castle.

Realistically, I know we wouldn’t have known what to look for so I highly recommend the dinosaur walks run by Dinosaur Isle – check out my review of a dinosaur walk on Yaverland beach .

Dogs allowed on on the section between the sailing club and Culver Down head year-round, as well as on the rest of the beach from October to April.

Compton Beach, West Wight

Another great option if you’re looking for a bit of time travel with your coast, it’s possible to find fossils on Compton Beach and you can see dinosaur footprints on the ledge at Hanover Point at low tide – the safest option is to book a tour to do it.

There are toilets and parking here, but otherwise don’t expect much in the way of facilities (though you might find an ice cream van) – but it’s perfect if you’re looking for a chilled out escape from the crowds. The main car park is at Hanover Point although there’s a smaller one further west with steep steps leading down to the bay.

Popular with surfers, there’s two miles of sands of sand so you can make a proper sand fortress or spread out to play games. The water has won awards for its high quality, although those surf waves mean you can forget paddling with little ones.

No dogs allowed between mid May and the end of September.

Brook Beach

Next to Compton Bay, Brook Beach is another great option if you want to spot the dinosaur footprints at low tide – Hanover Point is right between the two beaches.

But that’s not all there is to find on this lovely sandy beach. As the tide goes out, you can also find fossilised trees – a petrified forest, which looks a little like lumps of coal with added sparkle. Not from gold, sadly, but from iron pyrites, or fools gold. Still adds to the feeling of finding treasure though.

You can also find fossils at the back of the beach among the pebbles – do take care as you get closer to the cliffs. And it’s another ideal beach for activities, including kite-surfing and surfing for older kids, as well as games on the wide open stretch of sand.

Dog-friendly year-round.

Best for activities

St Helen’s Duver

You could happily sit on the beach at St Helen’s Duver making sand castles and watching the ships off the coast for hours, but it’s also a great place if you’re looking for more activity in your day.

At Node’s Point, the big limestone ledges are dotted with little pools which are perfect for rockpooling – you can find crabs here as well, or simply bring a net (and some beach shoes!) and see what you discover hiding in the tide pools.

As ever, if you do go rockpooling, return everything you find to its home afterwards, being careful not to harm the creatures. And take care on the slippery rocks!

Behind the beach, the soft springy grass is lovely to scamper around on if your kids need to burn off any more energy, as well as being dotted with wildflowers.

There’s also a great walk taking you along the beach towards Priory Bay and circling back if you want to make more of an adventure of it – although you do need to check the tide times before setting off, to ensure it’s low tide if you want to do the full walk.

It’s also dog-friendly here.

Stop off at Baywatch on the Beach for a great crab sandwich while you’re here as well.

Bembridge Beach

Head to Bembridge beach at low tide, and it’s another great place to go rockpooling, as the waves recede off Bembridge Ledge which stretches to the slipway ramp for the lifeboat.

You can find crabs here too, as well as fish, shrimps and brittle stars, plus a sandbank that emerges when the tide is out.

If you don’t have any luck finding crabs in the pools, they’ll be on the menu at the  Beach Hut  in Bembridge which has made a name for its crab dishes – kids also welcome there.

At high tide, it’s mostly pebbles and shells, so also works well for a wander to the lifeboat station – a special pier was built to launch it out beyond the rocks around the coast.

You can also try watersports, including sailing, as well as looking out to the cross Channel ferries leaving Portsmouth and St Helen’s Fort.

This is one of the few Isle of Wight beaches which is dog-friendly year-round too.

The pebble beach at Alum Bay isn’t the biggest attraction – although there’s still space to sit and watch the waves for a bit – but its location. Looking out to The Needles, you can get boat trips from this point for a closer view, including high-speed RIB boats, as well as more leisurely options with younger kids.

Check out our review of a boat trip to The Needles

If you don’t want to venture out on the waves, you can still see the three famous chalk rocks, as well as the cliffs made up of 21 different shades of sand – lots of fun trying to spot them all.

Back up on the clifftop, you can also make your own sand souvenir from the different colours – a bit kitschy and touristy? Maybe, but still a lot of fun for kids. There are also toilets and cafes here, although not on the beach itself.

There’s a chairlift down to Alum Bay beach, which costs around £3 per person (each way), or you can take the path down – easy with older kids, although not ideal if you’ve got a buggy. It runs along the cliff edge too, so not always the best option with toddlers either.

Dogs are allowed on leads (although not on the chairlift itself!)

Freshwater Bay

Head to the pebbly beach of Freshwater bay at low tide and you can spot a series of caves in the chalk cliffs – once the haunt of smugglers, you can still explore them (although best with a local guide to avoid becoming cut off by the tide).

Another option is to go kayaking out to look at them, especially if you’re visiting the Isle of Wight with older kids, as well as round to some of the other small bays along the coast here. Or check out some other waterspots in the bay.

There’s also rockpooling on the rock ledge, or if the tide is in, you’ll find a sandy section on the east edge of the beach for sandcastles and paddling. There are several cafes and places to eat nearby, public toilets a couple of minutes away and parking.

No dogs allowed between May and September.

If you’re visiting Freshwater Bay, make a stop at nearby Totland Bay too – the beach here all but vanishes at high tide, but the water is an incredible shade of turquoise blue.

PIN FOR LATER: BEST ISLE OF WIGHT BEACHES WITH KIDS

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links – any purchases you make are unaffected but I may receive a small commission

Shanklin beach/Compton Bay image courtesy of Depositphotos, Colwell Bay/Osborne Beach/Brook Bay/Steephill Cove copyright visitisleofwight.co.uk, all others copyright MummyTravels

Award-winning family travel blogger and mum to the mini traveller, aka Minnie. Together we've visited Europe, America, the Caribbean, Africa and Asia, tried a cruise and a road trip, and survived countless long-haul trips. London (UK) based. Serious beach habit.

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You are here > Home > Things To Do > Ryde Beach

Ryde's beaches Ryde is a welcoming seaside town on the north east coast of the Isle of Wight. Ryde's beaches have soft sand and plenty of space particularly at low tide. Even in the height of summer it's easy to find a perfect spot for you and your family. From early morning dog walkers to photographers capturing the evening sunset going down over the pier, Ryde beaches are perfect to visit all day long. If you're searching for a relaxing beach experience, with cafes and amenities on hand, Ryde's your place!

Miles of beach in Ryde Head east of Ryde Pier and it doesn't take long before you reach one of Ryde's famed sandy beaches. Past the traditional amusement, cafes and Ryde's small harbour, the first beach you come to is very family friendly;  it's even got a small children's play park on the beach. There's parking close by, but it's only a 15 minute flat walk along the seafront from the Pier.    If you keep walking you'll discover a continuous sandy beach with a gently shelving shoreline to your left as you walk along the seafront. To your right is the Waterside Pool and Canoe Lake where you can rent swan pedalos. Ice cream stands and cafes pop up along the way. There's access to all of the beaches straight off the footpath. 

Appley Beach, Ryde Appley Beach with its wide expanse of sandy beach and lush green park beyond is one of the most popular Island beaches. It takes about 25 minutes to walk there from the pier. With beach huts nestled under the trees and its own fairy castle on the beach - Appley Tower, a gothic folly built in the 1870s - there's a real sense of magic at Appley. 

Appley Beach all year round Ryde is well known for its incredibly low tide - it goes out over half a mile - almost to the end of the pier. One of Ryde's summer pleasures at Appley is a swim in the sea after the tide laps in over the hot sand. The water is gentle at Appley and whether high or low tide, this is a safe beach for the whole family to relax on.    In winter Appley is the perfect place for splashing about in wellies. Many kite surfers use Appley in the quieter months - it's a great winter spectator sport!   Requests for an ice cream will be easily fulfilled at Appley, there are a couple of places to eat and drink at either end of Appley Beach. 

Getting to Appley Beach Appley Beach is a 25 minute flat walk to the east of Ryde Pier and the bus and train station. The pavements are wide, so there's plenty of space for all the family and your beach gear. You can easily and safely cycle too. If you're driving there's a pay and display car park in Appley Park just behind the beach. It's a just a couple of minutes walk from the car park until you reach the beach. 

West of Ryde Pier A few steps to the west of Ryde Pier is a small sandy beach, very convenient for a last dip in the sea before you get the FastCat or Hovercraft back to the mainland. If you carry on to the west at low tide, you'll discover a beach that's perfect for beach combing and bird watching. You can follow the beach all the way round to Fishbourne, but it can be quite a muddy adventure!

Dogs on Ryde beaches Ryde is a dog friendly town and many people walk their dogs on Ryde's beaches all year round. Cafes welcome dogs with treats and a water bowl. Some sections are closed off to dogs from the end of March to the end of September. 

Bird watching on Ryde beaches Sanderlings, gulls, egrets, cormorants - these are some of the birds you'll find on Ryde's beaches at different times of the year. Parts of the Solent are within a Site of Special Scientific Interest and RAMSAR and so are a haven for birds particularly during the migration season. 

The Isle of Wight became a UNESCO Biosphere reserve in 2019 and Ryde's beaches are a perfect example of the interaction of man and the natural environment that led to the award of the accolade.

Watching the boats go by An impressive number of boats come past Ryde's beaches every day and the Solent is well known as one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world.

Ryde beaches offer fantastic views from the Island to Portsmouth, with the landmark Spinnaker Tower forming an impressive backdrop to the freight, passenger, cruise and military vessels that pass. You can also see the 19th century Solent Forts. Built in the 1860s because of fears of a French invasion, three are now boutique hotels. 

Getting to Ryde Ryde is easily accessible on foot from the south coast of England. From Portsmouth take the FastCat  to Ryde Pier Head or from Southsea take the Hovercraft to Ryde Esplanade. 

The Island Line train links Shanklin through to Ryde Esplanade and Ryde Pier Head. 

Southern Vectis have a busy bus station at Ryde, with different routes around the town and across the Island.  

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