The Isle of Wight has the advantage of being surrounded by coastline, meaning the opportunities for spending a day on an Isle of Wight beach are endless.
The Isle of Wight’s varied landscape means you can enjoy sandy beaches, rock pools, charming coves and spectacular cliffs providing a striking backdrop to your day at the beach. Shanklin is home to one of the best-known of the Isle of Wight’s sandy beaches, while Compton Bay offers some decent waves if you enjoy surfing or body boarding.
Chilton Chine is a pet-friendly beach, should you wish to bring your four-legged friend along with you, while Whitecliff Bay in Bembridge offers safe swimming and a stunning sandy beach that could easily be mistaken for more tropical climes, like that of the Mediterranean! Chose from our selection of Isle of Wight beaches featured in our travel guide.
Parking Available
Appley Beach forms part of the glorious Ryde Beach, resting just east of the lively town centre.
Dog Friendly
Visit this pebbly beach with its charming shallow waters and strikingly distinctive pier for a more calm and tranquil setting.
This shingle beach rests to the north of Cowes, and is well-known for its yachting events, taking in superb views of the Solent.
This stretch of shingle beach runs along the northern edge of East Cowes, offering superb views back across the town.
Freshwater
The sands and pebbles of Freshwater are nestled between two striking chalk cliffs, which further along form the Needles Headland.
Despite offering a short stretch of sands, Gurnard Beach just outside of Cowes is a fabulous spot for a family day out.
This shingle beach rests just east of Ventnor, and reveals an expanse of sand at low tide.
Ryde
An expanse of sand that has helped Ryde become one of the Isle of Wight’s most popular resorts for many years.
Shanklin
A safe and sandy beach on the southeast coast of the Isle of Wight, Shanklin Beach is an excellent place for families seeking a day at the seaside.
Ventnor
This small area of golden sands rests at the eastern end of the serene Ventnor Botanic Garden and on the outskirts of the popular resort.