Isle of Wight Beaches

Planning a trip to the Isle of Wight? Discover the stunning Isle of Wight beaches for all the family. Use our guide to help you plan your visit.

Find your favourite Isle of Wight Beaches

Isle of Wight beaches range from traditional family-friendly seaside spots and award-winning beaches to the dramatic multi-coloured cliffs of Alum Bay. There are lots of things to see and do, perfect for a family break or to walk the coastal path. The Solent is famous for national and international sailing events, thousands of visitors attend each year to participate or as spectators.

Beaches on the Isle of Wight

Do you know the name of the beach you are looking for? See our full list of beaches in Isle of Wight in alphabetical order.

Alum Bay

Alum Bay is a stunning beach that attracts visitors from all over the world with its unique multi-coloured sandstone cliffs.

Appley Beach

Appley Beach is a top choice for families seeking a fun and safe day out by the sea. Rent deck chairs, parasols, and beach huts, and there’s even a seaside cafe to grab a bite to eat.

Blackgang Beach

Located on the southern tip of the Isle of Wight, Blackgang Beach is a secluded haven away from the crowds.

Compton Bay

Compton Bay is a hidden gem, offering visitors an unspoiled stretch of beach and stunning views of the sea.

Cowes Beach

Cowes Beach is a charming coastal destination and one of the best known beaches in the Isle of Wight as a top sailing destination.

Cowes East Beach

Cowes-East Beach is a two-mile shingle beach, situated in the world-famous yachting town of Cowes. The beach has stunning views of the Solent.

Colwell Bay

Colwell Bay is a small but award-winning beach on the West coast of the island. The clear waters are perfect for swimming, and the beach is a great spot for sunbathing or taking a stroll along the shore.

Freshwater Bay

Freshwater Bay is a beautiful pebble beach on the west side of the island, offering stunning views of the famous Needles Headland.

Gurnard Beach

Gurnard Beach is a shingle beach with stunning views of the Solent. Perfect for those looking to enjoy a peaceful day by the sea, away from the busier beaches.

Priory Bay Beach

Priory Bay Beach, located on the eastern coast of the Isle of Wight near Nettlestone, is a picturesque sandy and pebbly beach accessible only by footpaths.

Ryde Beach

Ryde Beach is only a 10-minute journey from the center of Ryde, this large sandy beach is a great destination for a day out in the sun.

Springvale Beach

This unspoilt stretch of beach on the Isle of Wight’s north coast offers stunning views of the Solent and plenty of opportunities for beachcombing and exploring the tide pools.

Sandown Beach

One of the best beaches on the Isle of Wight, with miles of soft sand and stunning views of the Culver Cliffs. Sandown Beach is the perfect destination for a family day out by the sea.

Small Hope Beach

Although small, Small Hope Beach is a popular spot for families to relax and soak up the sun, with beach huts and sun loungers available for rent

St Helens Beach

St Helens Beach features a mix of sand and pebbles, and is protected by breakwaters and a sea wall.

Shanklin Beach

With its yellow sand and family-friendly atmosphere, Shanklin Beach is located at the southern end of Sandown Bay.

Totland Bay

At low tide, this small sandy beach is perfect for a quiet getaway, with beautiful views of the Isle of Wight’s western coast.

Ventnor Beach

As an award-winning family resort, Ventnor Beach boasts a sheltered, sun-trapped bay with calm waters and plenty of amenities.

Yarmouth Beach

Yarmouth Beach is a little seafront spot on the northeastern side of the island, and the closest beach to the ferry terminal in Yarmouth.

Yaverland Bay

Located just a mile from Sandown, Yaverland Beach is a popular destination for sailing and water sports, with beautiful views of the English Channel.

Whitecliff Bay

A privately owned sand and shingle beach, Whitecliff Bay is perfect for beach days and coastal walks, with stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and sea.

Taking the ferry to the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight on the South East coast of England is a hugely popular tourist destination. To get there you have to go by ferry. The three operators are Hovertravel, Red Funnel and Wrightlink. Car passenger ferry crossings are from Portsmouth, Southampton, and Lymington. The foot passenger ferry runs from Portsmouth, Southsea, Southampton, and Lymington.

Enjoy the beautiful Isle of Wight coast.

WHAT’S ON

Coastal events in Isle of Wight Island for your diary

Annual events taking place for 2024.

Regattas
Seafood Festivals
Carnivals

What’s On

Top Isle of Wight Beaches

Looking for top Isle of Wight Coast destinations? Miles of sandy beaches, traditional seaside towns and family attractions. Walk the coastal path or find family friendly Blue Flag beaches. There are sandy beaches in Isle of Wight which are safe for swimming as well as dog friendly beaches for long walks with our four legged friends.

Blue Flag

Family Friendly award winning beaches

Dog friendly

For long walks with our four legged friends.

What’s On

Find out What’s On – from festivals to cultural events along the coast

Explore other areas near the Isle of Wight

Explore the miles of UK coastline with popular seaside destinations, coastal walks and water sports. Find more beaches in the southeast coast of England, covering the counties of Kent, East Sussex, West Sussex, Hampshire and Hayling Island. Stop off at a beach for the day or walk or cycle the coastal trails.

UK Beach Guide

Go to the Beach Guide

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