About the Isles of Wight - BEACHES

There are currently 12 award winning beaches on the Isle of Wight all of which are managed and maintained to the highest standard. In order for the Isle of Wight to gain these awards the beaches have to meet strict criteria as laid down by EnCams. For example the water quality must meet the standards of the Bathing Water Directive.

Isle of Wight beaches and esplanades are inspected daily to ensure that they are clean and safe for our visitors. When visiting our beaches please follow the guidelines to help us to maintain this standard. There are operators at some beaches that are able to offer deck chair and sun lounger hire.
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.

Please be aware of the dangers of tombstoning.

Colwell Bay
Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards. This small and sandy beach is tucked away on the quieter west coast of the Island with panoramic views of the Solent. The beach is unspoilt and is a popular location for locals and visitors

Compton Bay
Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards. Compton Bay is a sandy beach located beside the coast road between Freshwater Bay and Brook. Suitable for swimming and windsurfing, but no hire facilities on site. Car park, toilet and refreshments in summer

Cowes & Gurnard Beaches
Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards. Gurnard is a small pleasant resort to the west of Cowes.

Freshwater Bay
Freshwater Bay is a small sand and shingle bay adjacent to bus route, car park, coastal walks, nature trail, golf course, refreshments and toilet.

Ryde Beach
Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards. Ryde Beach is situated to the north of Ryde Town Centre and is accessible by either foot, car, public transport or our delightful Dotto Train. This is one of the most popular resorts for day trippers, holiday makers and our local residents.

Sandown Beach
Blue Flag Winner Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards. Sandown is the best place to have fun beside the sea safely.

Shanklin Beach
Blue Flag Winner Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards.

St Helens Beach
Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards St Helens Beach can be accessed by either foot or car.

Totland Bay
Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards Totland Bay is stuated on the West side of the Island where families enjoy the delightful beach.

Ventnor Beach
Blue Flag Winner Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards.

Yaverland Beach
Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards Yaverland is easily accessible by car or foot. Ample parking and only 1.5k from Sandown Town Centre.

Bembridge
Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards Bembridge hosts several quiet beaches of pebble and sand, suitable for swimming except unsafe in harbour ...

PTGH wish to thank www.islandbreaks.co.uk for their help in providing the above information 01/10/09