Isle of Wight beaches offer some of the finest seascapes in the UK. From fossil-rich cliffs to charming Victorian resorts, our guide to the best beaches in the Isle of Wight has something for everyone!
Families seeking a traditional ‘bucket and spade’ atmosphere will be delighted by the collection of resorts, while those looking to escape the crowds will enjoy the array of secluded havens. If you are feeling adventurous, you will be spoilt for choice by the opportunities for watersports and walking on the Isle of Wight coast too!
Continue reading to discover the 10 best Isle of Wight Beaches…
1. Sandown Beach
If you’re looking for a traditional family beach break, look no further than Sandown Beach. First on our guide to the best beaches in the Isle of Wight boasts miles of golden sands, excellent water quality and exceptional features, as well as a pleasure pier!
Beachcombers can look forward to bathing and surfing on this Isle of Wight beach, and families can have peace of mind with RNLI and lifeguards on patrol during the summer season.
After a day on the glorious sands, explore the pier before venturing along the esplanade, where you will find seaside cafes, souvenirs and beach shops.
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Dog restrictions apply between May-end of September
Car Park: Yes
Postcode: PO36 8AE
2. Alum Bay
Alum Bay beach is one of the most striking beaches on the Isle of Wight, famed for its multi-coloured sand cliffs and crystal clear waters. Not only is it beautiful but it is also dog-friendly all year round, making it one of the best dog-friendly beaches on the Isle of Wight.
This beach stands The Needles, an iconic Isle of Wight landmark that stands boldly at the end of the outermost chalk stack. The beach has 21 different sand shades, offering a dramatic sight and the waters provides a sense of tranquillity for paddlers and fishermen.
Enjoy the view of The Needles from the waters by hopping on board a pleasure cruise from the bay, where you will discover plenty of photo opportunities. Attractions that rest close to this Isle of Wight beach include; The Needles Lighthouse, the National Trust coastal fort and the Headon Warren walk.
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Car Park: Yes
Postcode: PO39 0JD
3. Shanklin Beach
Resting on the southeast corner of the coast is of one the best known stretches of Isle of Wight beaches, Shanklin Beach.
With miles of golden sands that are protected by a high sea wall, you and your loved ones are promised a delightful day by the sea. Explore the beach huts that line the sea wall, before finding The Fisherman’s Cottage pub at the foot of Shanklin Chine.
Round off your day at the seaside by visiting the esplanade, where you will find an array of activities. Such activities include; an amusement arcade, crazy golf, go-carts and bowling! Continuing to impress, during low tide, you could walk around the headland to Luccombe Beach, for some breath-taking views along the coast.
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Dog restrictions apply between May-end of September
Car Park: Yes
Postcode: PO37 6BW
4. Freshwater Bay
Next on our guide to Isle of Wight beaches is Freshwater Bay. This Isle of Wight beach enjoys a western position and is surrounded by tall white cliffs and captivating coastal formations.
Those visiting the beautiful Freshwater Bay will be in awe of the grey flint and chalk pebbles, which complement the chalk cliff. Explore the old haunts of smugglers as a collection of caves becomes exposed at low tide, if you are feeling adventurous! Taking a kayak out to the waters is the best way to enjoy the caves, but be sure to find a local guide so that you can explore them fully.
Just a short walk away from the beach is the Albion Hotel, where you can linger over a pint or brush up on the local history with a visit to Dimbola Museum.
Type of beach: Sand and pebbles
Dog-friendly: Dog restrictions apply between May-end of September
Car Park: Yes
Postcode: PO40 9RA
5. Yarmouth Beach
Yarmouth is a bustling and historically significant town, perched at the mouth of River Yar. The town has an extensive maritime heritage and its port was the hub of the herring industry.
Today, it boasts an extensive collection of places to eat and drink, places to shop and cobbled streets to admire. After enjoying the town centre, head to the Grade II listed pier before basking in the sunshine at the short stretch of sand and shingle beach.
A popular spot on our Isle of Wight beaches guide!
Type of beach: Sand and shingle
Dog-friendly: Dog restrictions apply between May-end of September
Car Park: Yes
Postcode: PO41 0QN
6. Bembridge Beach
Next on our guide to Isle of Wight beaches is the mostly pebble beach of Bembridge. Here, you will be delighted to find a seamless blend of sand, rock and pebble, all interspersed with interesting rock pools.
This beach is ideal for exploring, as well as capturing breath-taking shots on your camera, with views stretching out over the Solent and Portsmouth.
This part of the coast is a popular spot for surfing; however, the main attraction of the beach is its lifeboat station. Find the station at the end of the 200-meter long pier, which was originally constructed in 1922.
Type of beach: Sand, rock and pebble
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Car Park: Yes
Postcode: PO35 5NQ
7. Compton Bay
Sandy beaches on the Isle of Wight are in abundance; however, this sandy beach is considered one of the best-kept secrets.
Compton Bay can be found to the west of the isle and boasts two miles of gold and dark sands. Look forward to the rolling seas, the tumbling sandstone cliffs and the views of the white chalk cliffs in the distance.
With fossil-rich cliffs, it is easy to see why Compton is one of the best Isle of Wight beaches.
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Dog restrictions apply between May-end of September
Car Park: Yes
Postcode: PO30 4HF
8. Steephill Cove
Take a step back in time when you visit our next Isle of Wight beach, Steephill Cove! This quaint spot is positioned on the sunny south side of the isle, between rocky cliffs and smugglers’ coves.
Complete with a photogenic jumble of beach huts, deck chairs and quaint fishermen’s cottages, this impossible pretty spot is perfect for a family day out. You can catch a glimpse of the local fishermen coming to the dock. Afterwards, head to The Boathouse Seafood Restaurant and sample mouth-watering freshly caught crab and lobster.
You will also find lots of walking opportunities from this beach and the town of Ventnor is nearby, where there are more amenities.
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Dogs are allowed on leads and can run free after 6pm
Car Park: Parking can be found at Ventnor Botanical Gardens, PO38 1UL
Postcode: PO38 1AF
9. Ryde Beach
This sandy beach on the Isle of Wight can be found on the northeastern coast in the bustling town of Ryde.
Here, you will be spoilt for choice by the miles and miles of sands that are waiting to enjoy. As well the pier, where collections of boats bob at anchor, offering a pretty sight! Traditional amusements are in abundance here too, as well as a Waterside Pool and a Canoe Lake. This Isle of Wight beach promises to be a fun-filled out for the entire family.
Sunbathers can bask in the sunshine with the landmark Spinnaker Tower as your backdrop, whilst others try their hand at kite-surfing!
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Dog restrictions apply between May-end of September
Car Park: Yes
Postcode: PO33 1JA
10. Ventnor Beach
If you’re looking for a traditional seaside town, where vintage beach huts line the glorious sand, look no further than Ventnor Beach. The final destination on our guide to Isle of Wight beaches is positioned as the southernmost beach.
Here you will find a gentle slope of sand and red shingle in a sheltered bay. It offers a more tranquil spot, for those wishing to escape the madding crowds of other UK beaches. Visit during low tide and explore the ridge of rocks or splash around at the famous Isle of Wight paddling pool if you’re visiting with children.
Type of beach: Sand and shingle
Dog-friendly: Dog restrictions apply between May-end of September
Car Park: Yes
Postcode: PO38 1JT
If you’re seeking more home-soil beautiful beaches, discover our top UK dog-friendly beaches, beaches you won’t believe are in Scotland or the best beaches in South Wales. Once you have found the perfect beach break for you, secure your stay with us today!