By Parkdean Resorts on 08/05/2018
The Isle of Wight’s beaches are recognised as being some of the best in Europe, and with over 57 miles of spectacular coastline, it’s easy to see why. From award-winning sandy shores to hidden coves, these beautiful beaches can be reached in under one hour from all of our holiday parks on the Isle of Wight.
Whether you want to hunt for marine life in rock pools, build sandcastles with the kids or ride the unpredictable waves, there are endless miles of sandy shores for you to explore.
To help you plan your next seaside adventure, we’ve unearthed the top 5 beaches on the Isle of Wight - perfect for the whole family.
Shanklin Beach
With long stretches of golden sands, crystal clear waters and a traditional seaside feel, Shanklin Beach is one of the best-known beaches on the Isle of Wight. Less than 10 minutes away from Lower Hyde Holiday Park, there’s plenty to enjoy on a visit to the island’s most popular seaside resort.
Relax in a deck chair while the kids build sandcastles and explore the rock pools, then head to the water for a paddle. The sea here is very calm, so it’s a great place for swimming. There are even kayaks and pedalos available to hire, which is perfect if you’re keen to explore the coastline.
The Shanklin seafront promenade has lots to keep every family member entertained. There’s a large amusement arcade complete with crazy golf, bowling, go-karting and a new exciting pirate-themed crazy golf park, too. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and cafés where you can grab a bite to eat, and there are some great places to stop for an ice cream.
Video sourced from SiteSite iow
Yaverland Beach
Only 10 minutes from Landguard Holiday Park you’ll find Yaverland Beach, a sandy haven with turquoise waters. Stretching from the Yaverland Sailing and Yacht Club all the way to the chalk cliffs of Culver Down, there’s lots to enjoy at this stunning Blue Flag beach.
Yaverland is a popular location for water sports - so have a go at surfing, sailing or kite surfing, or simply relax on the sand and watch the pros ride the waves. The area is also perfect for swimming and boasts some of the best bathing areas around the island. If you’re on holiday with your dog then you’re in luck, as you can bring your four-legged friend here all year round. Take a stroll along the coastal path that leads from the beach and over the beautiful cliffs, where you’ll be treated to stunning views across the sea.
The beach is also one of the island’s best locations for fossil hunting, and you can join a guided fossil walk at the nearby Dinosaur Isle, Britain’s first purpose built dinosaur attraction. Take a journey back in time to over 120 million years ago and discover the creatures that once roamed the Earth.
Video sourced from AerialDroneCamUK
Compton Bay
With soft sands, multi-coloured cliffs, rolling waves and open stretches of beautiful countryside, Compton Bay and Downs is one of the Isle of Wight’s best-kept secrets. Under 20 minutes from Thorness Bay Holiday Park, this tranquil bay is perfect for a family day out.
One of the top places for watersports on the Isle of Wight, Compton Bay boasts perfect surfing conditions. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, grab your board and head for the waves. There are also lots of rock pools to explore here, where you and the young ones can hunt for marine life - and the beach is another great location for fossil hunting, perfect for little explorers who’ll enjoy searching for prehistoric treasures in the sand.
Compton Bay is surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery on the Isle of Wight and is one of the island’s top beauty spots. There are endless walking trails to explore, taking you over rugged cliff tops and across open stretches of countryside. Keep your eyes peeled for colourful butterflies and wildflowers, and enjoy the long reaching views across the coastline.
Video Sourced by Andrei Scurei
Alum Bay
It’s well worth making the trip to Alum Bay, the island’s most famous beach, which can be reached in less than one hour from all of our holiday parks on the island. The home of the world-famous Needles Landmark Attraction, there’s lots to see and do on a visit to Alum Bay.
The bay is one of the most picturesque beaches on the island and is renowned for its amazing views over the Solent and the iconic Needles rocks. It’s also famous for its multi-coloured sand cliffs, made up of over 21 different shades, creating a dramatic and natural shelter for the beach. The waters here are especially good for paddling and swimming, making it perfect for a family day out when the warmer weather hits.
You can either reach the beach via steps, or by taking a ride on the iconic Needles chairlift. Climb aboard and travel down the cliffside, where you’ll be treated to a birds-eye view of the Needles and the beautiful coastline, before you reach the stunning beach below. There’s also lots to enjoy at the Needles Landmark Attraction, including fairground rides, Jurassic Golf, boat trips, glass blowing demonstrations and a sweet factory.
Video sourced from BrainzIOW
St Helens Duver
This peaceful sandy beach, surrounded by beautiful sand dunes, is one of the most picturesque locations on the Isle of Wight and is a 10 minute walk from Nodes Point Holiday Park.
There’s something for everyone to enjoy in St Helens and the surrounding area. The beach itself is perfect for building sandcastles, swimming and playing games and is usually much quieter than other beaches on the island. Relax on the sand and watch the ships pass by on the horizon, then head out for a stroll along the bay. As one of the island’s top rock pooling hotspots, there’s plenty of marine life to discover in the area, including crabs, fish and sea squirts.
St Helens Duver, the sand dunes and historic landscape that frame the beach, are home to some of the island’s most popular walking routes. This is a wonderful open space, perfect for kite flying and walking, as well as being a great place for the children to play while you relax and enjoy the scenery. The Duver is a popular spot for bird watching, so look out for a variety of birds as you explore - including wheatears, chiffchaffs and linnets.
Video sourced from SiteSite iow