Ventnor Beach

Visit Ventnor Beach

Ventnor Beach is an award-winning family seaside resort with a sun trapped bay sheltered by high cliffs. Explore the Victorian seaside town and walk down through the famous cascade gardens to the seafront.

Ventnor Beach sits on the island’s south coast, tucked beneath steep cliffs and known for its relaxed, old-fashioned seaside feel. Sheltered from northerly winds, it often enjoys warmer temperatures than other parts of the Isle of Wight. The beach has a real sun-trap quality, with a mix of sand and shingle that glows red in the sunlight, especially at low tide.

Once there, everything is close at hand. The promenade curves gently along the bay, lined with beach huts, cafés and places to stop and take in the view. The historic bandstand adds to the traditional charm and is often used for small events and music during the warmer months.

Ventnor is popular with swimmers, thanks to its sheltered position, but the sea here deserves respect.

Low tide in summer is the best time to visit if you want space and sand. The sea pulls back to reveal wider areas for walking and relaxing, while the cliffs provide shelter from the breeze. After dark, Ventnor’s low levels of light pollution make it a surprisingly good spot for stargazing, with clear views on cloudless nights.

In winter, the beach takes on a different character, attracting experienced surfers when the conditions are right and the crowds have gone.

This beach is …

  • An Award Winning Beach
  • Great For Families
  • Sheltered sun-trap bay
  • Safe For Swimming
  • Traditional promenade with bandstand

What to see and do

  • Swim in calm conditions (take care of tides and rocks)
  • Enjoy winter surfing if you’re experienced
  • Walk the promenade and coastal paths
  • Stargaze on clear nights due to low light pollution

Discover more in the area

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Places to stay

  • Boutique hotels in Ventnor town
  • Seafront guesthouses with bay views
  • Self-catering cottages along the Undercliff
  • Nearby campsites and holiday parks for longer stays

Ventnor Beach is ideal if you’re looking for a quieter, characterful seaside escape with dramatic scenery and a slower pace. It’s less about thrills and more about atmosphere, making it a favourite with walkers, swimmers and those who enjoy the simple pleasure of being by the sea.

Have a great day out by the coast

Header Image by Marushka Tziroulnikoff from Pixabay

Getting To Ventnor Beach

Beach Location

Parking

Nearest Train

Station

The beach is easy to reach by car via the A3055, or by public transport on Southern Vectis bus Route 3 which runs regularly along the coast.

Map of Ventnor Beach

Ventnor Beach Dogs Policy

Dogs are allowed at Ventnor Beach but seasonal restrictions apply.

Dogs are not allowed from 1 May to 30 September, between the bandstand and the Spyglass Inn. Outside these dates, dogs are welcome back.

Nearby coves offer year-round alternatives. A stylish beach with clear boundaries.

Explore the UK coastline

beautiful beach on South West England coast

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Throughout the year there are a series of events and festivals taking place along the Coast in 2026. Find out What’s On from food festivals to cultural and sporting events.

Get active on the beach

Find the best beaches for water sports. Learn to kitesurfsurf or sail at schools around the UK. Lessons are available to suit all abilities.

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