Isle of Wight Beach Guide
Isle of Wight Beach Guide
- - 60 miles of beach
- - 11 Quality Coast Awards (QCAs)
- - 3 Blue Flag winners
- - Over 20 beaches to choose from
- - All accessible by car and most by public transport
The Isle of Wight is a beach lovers paradise with over 60 miles of beach to explore throughout the year. From quiet secluded bays, fossil rich coves and miles of award winning sandy beaches which are safe for swiming, the Isle of Wight has a beach for every occassion and personal preference.
In 2010, the Isle of Wight came joint top in the UK for the number of quality beaches in the annual Keep Britain Tidy Blue Flags and Quality Coast Awards (QCAs).
Ventnor, Sandown and Shanklin were awarded Blue Flag status while 11 beaches were given Quality Coast Awards - the single highest for the country. Criteria include good access, top facilities such as lifeguard provision, absense of litter and clean bathing water.
South Coast Beaches
The south coast borders the English Channel and has a selection of spectacular beaches with chalk cliffs and secluded bays. These beaches are more rugged and as a result are quieter. South Coast Beaches>
South Coast BeachesWest Coast Beaches
The west coast offers some of the most dramatic scenery on the Island, with towering cliffs and stunning beaches with views across the Solent and of the famous Needles rock formations. West Coast Beaches >
West Coast BeachesEast Coast Beaches
The east coast offers a huge choice of beaches with something for everyone and every occasion, from small secluded bays to Blue Flag beaches. East Coast Beaches>
East Coast BeachesNorth Coast Beaches
Ideal for families. Safe beaches with plenty of facilities. North Coast Beaches>
North Coast Beaches2010 Award Winners
- Gurnard - Quality Coast Award
- Cowes - Quality Coast Award
- East Cowes - Quality Coast Award
- Springvale - Quality Coast Award
- Seagrove - Quality Coast Award
- Yaverland - Quality Coast Award
- Sandown - Blue Flag
- Shanklin - Blue Flag
- Ventnor - Blue Flag
- Totland - Quality Coast Award
- Colwell - Quality Coast Award
How to travel there
By Car
If you're travelling by car, the Island's beaches are easily accessible by main roads from Cowes.
On Foot
If travelling on foot from Southampton, the Island bus service, Southern Vectis offers regular and good value transport links to all areas of the Island.Alternativelyif you don't want to travel further, you can visit the Island's north coast beaches in and around Cowes.
Note to dog owners - Between May and September, dogs are restricted to certain areas of beach and banned on all central resort beaches. Tourist Information Centres have a leaflet for your guidance.
