A Coast For All...

The Isle of Wight is a pocket paradise that packs a punch - no passport required!

2024 is A Coast For All – a year-long celebration marking the creation of the new England Coastal Path. Discover an exciting programme of events happening across England’s entire coastline, including right here on the Isle of Wight.  

If you’re looking for a relaxing, fun-filled break by the sea, then look no further. Only a short hop across the water and just under two hours door-to-door from London, the Isle of Wight is the perfect spot for your coastal staycation. Home to miles of unspoilt coastal paths, dramatic views and award-winning beaches, no matter how long you’re here, you’re guaranteed to leave the Island with memories that will last a lifetime.

A Coast For All Experiences

The Isle of Wight is the perfect place to visit for adventurous days, starry nights and family fun. Whether it’s searching for yet-to-be-discovered dinosaur species on our beaches, channelling your inner mermaid out on the water with a range of fun activities, or hiking the well-trodden coastal path in search of our rare Glanville Fritillary butterfly, there is something to suit everyone. Our welcoming shores are for everyone - you’ll find accessible coastal walks such as the stretch between Ryde and Seaview, where the flat path is ideal for pushchairs and those with mobility issues.

A Coast For All Seasons

The Isle of Wight is home to some of the UK’s most spectacular coastal scenery. Our 68-mile-long coastal path will take you on a stunning circular journey past bustling harbours, sandy seafronts and award-winning beaches. Bracing and dramatic in the winter, warm and refreshing in the summer, our coast has something to offer all year round. 

You’ll also get the chance to bask in the beauty of our famous landmarks, including the iconic Needles and Queen Victoria’s holiday home, Osborne. 

A Coast For All Adventures

Whether you’re a casual stroller, a fast-paced hiker or prefer exploring the big outdoors on two wheels, make the most of the Island’s miles of coastal paths and get up close and personal with our dramatic coastline. You’ll also find over 200 miles of cycle tracks, bridleways and byways just waiting to be explored. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not explore our stunning coast from the water? Try your hand (or is that feet?) at paddleboarding, kitesurfing, sailing and more. You’ll find local experts offering coasteering adventures and surfing lessons too. 

A Coast For All Occasions

If you’re looking for a relaxing stay with coastal charm on tap, then you’re spoilt for choice on the Isle of Wight. Whether you want to fall asleep to the sound of the waves or be close to a dog-friendly beach, you will find your perfect coastal bolthole right here. 

There are plenty of cottages to choose from, many of which are close to a beach, including Pavilion Cottage at Osborne, Romany Cottage in Totland Bay and Signal Point at Ventnor Botanic Garden. 

If it’s wild and rustic you are looking for Compton Farm Touring and Caravan Park is just minutes from the Island’s last unspoilt beaches. For a stay that offers a range of facilities and a whole host of fun activities, The Bay Colwell Holiday Resort is only a short stroll from the wonderful Colwell Bay beach, while Whitecliff Bay boasts glamping, quirky caravans, luxury lodges and access to a beautiful secluded beach.

A Coast For All Cuisines

Whether it’s dining by the sea, watching the storm with a warming cuppa or sampling some local produce, the Isle of Wight is a true foodie paradise. 

Home to a selection of delicious local cuisine in a range of places to suit all tastes and budgets, 

You’ll also find many pubs and restaurants with a gorgeous sea view too. Head to the charming town of Shanklin and in the warmer months, you’ll find the Fisherman’s Cottage ready and welcoming – a thatched pub at the far end of the esplanade. Or on the South Wight, be sure to visit The Spyglass Inn - a traditional sailor and smugglers inn, full of seafaring memorabilia. 

The beach resort of Sandown also has a plethora of seafront restaurants to try – like the Driftwood Beach Bar, which offers spectacular views of the waves at high tide. 

The West Wight has a range of places close to some of the Island’s most-loved views, such as The Hut at Colwell Bay and The Pearl Cafe, overlooking Compton Bay.

And you’re bound to find somewhere delicious to eat elsewhere in East and North Wight, too. Because wherever you are on the Island, you’re never far from a bite to eat with a view.

A Coast For All Events

The Island has a long and illustrious history of hosting events celebrating the coast. Watch the spectacle of thousands of yachts taking part in famous Round the Island Race and enjoy fun on and off the water at the most famous sailing regatta in the world - Cowes Week.  

Explore the coastline and learn about our maritime history with a guided walk during our Walking Festival, it’s so popular that it now happens twice a year - in spring and autumn. Plus you’ll discover plenty of regattas and carnivals taking place around the Island during the summertime.

The Isle of Wight has a huge selection of events, from festivals to summer shows and historic carnivals, scroll down to discover a list of events.