Things to Do in the Summer on the Isle of Wight

There is nowhere better than the Isle of Wight for your summer holidays. We would say that, of course, but we promise you it’s true! From the weather (we are a few degrees warmer than the rest of the UK thanks to our special microclimate) to the gorgeous countryside and beaches to explore, we have everything you could need – and more!

So, if you’re after sun, sea, sand and unforgettable memories in a friendly and welcoming place you should book in your summer holiday on the Isle of Wight.  

Summer days out

Make memories to last a lifetime with the ones you love. Discover great family attractions like Tapnell Farm and Waterpark, Blackgang Chine, Osborne House, Carisbrooke Castle, The Needles Landmark Attraction, Sandham Gardens and many more. Hire a mountain bike, paddle board or surfboard and try something new. Or simply head to the beach for sandcastles, sun and classic fish and chips! There is something to do for everyone.

Discover our dramatic coastline

Described as lowland England in miniature, exploring the beautiful coastline during the glorious summer months is a wonderful experience, with everything from fossil hunting to kayaking around the cliff edges on offer. Alongside dramatic cliffs, secret woodlands and rolling hills, you’ll find open chalk downs, patchwork fields and stunning views across both the countryside and coast.

You can take a stroll up and across Freshwater Bay to the west of the Island, or spend the day exploring Culver Down on the east - with great views of Sandown and the coastline. But one of the best ways to see the Island in summer is off-shore. Why not book a sailing or boat trip and witness the beautiful coastline by sea?

Beaches and watersports

Pack a picnic, your sun cream and towel and head for one of the Island’s many award-winning beaches. From white sandy to beaches and calm clean waters perfect for sunning, swimming, and paddle boarding, to dramatic cliffs and swell perfect for a day spent hunting fossils and catching waves – we’ve got a beach to suit all.

Plan your visit to the beach during your stay with the simple-to-use Beach Check App. The app provides real-time information for Ryde, Sandown, Shanklin and Ventnor beaches. You can find out how crowded a beach is so you, your friends and family can enjoy promenades and beaches safely. Using a traffic light system, you will be able to check whether beaches are quiet (marked green), starting to get busier (marked orange) or are congested (marked red). Download the free app to plan your next beach trip.

The Isle of Wight has so many different beachside experiences to offer, it’s worth exploring to find the perfect one for you and your family. Plus, with 25 beaches on the Island (14 of which are award-winning), you can easily visit a different one every day of your holiday... or just try a different one every day!

From the sandy shores of Shanklin and Ryde to the wilder, stony beach at Freshwater, there’s something for everyone. And there are plenty of areas to swim, paddle and play in.  

If you’re a fan of adventure, try your hand at surfing, kayaking, paddle boarding or windsurfing to really get the adrenaline pumping. One of the Island’s best kept secrets, Compton Bay is one of the best beaches for kayaking. The sandy shore and crashing waves make it popular with surfers, too. Yaverland and Sandown Bay are also excellent spots for a gentle surf or kayak around the area.

Quieter beaches can be found as well, away from the main holiday drag, offering peace and tranquillity even in high season. We are also very dog friendly and there are a number of beaches that dogs can use all year round. Be sure to check the rules for every beach, though, as there are different restrictions in different areas.

Walking and cycling routes

We have over 70 miles of cliff path walks, as well as cycle paths and forests, beaches and woodland to explore on foot or bike.

With more than half the Island designated as an Isle of Wight National Landscape (formerly known as Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), walkers are spoilt for choice with an array of breathtaking routes to discover. Spanning the entire Island, the coastal path is split into six sections – each offering something completely unique. You can choose to split the route over a few days or clock up as many miles as you can in one go. 

Walk from Yarmouth to Brighstone to see the iconic Needles and enjoy hunting for fossils along the way. You’ll get to explore the picturesque Newtown Nature Reserve along the 16-mile Cowes to Yarmouth stretch, or why not go back in time to Queen Victoria’s era with a challenging 8-mile trek from Ryde to Cowes? Whatever route you choose, you’re guaranteed so much to see and do.

If you prefer travelling on two wheels, then work up a sweat across 200 miles of cycle tracks, byways and bridleways. Perfect for beginners and seasoned cyclists alike, there are plenty of routes of all difficulties for everyone to enjoy. The Round the Island cycle route is one of the most popular, with beautiful sea views and gorgeous country meanders. But don’t worry – there are plenty of flat, gentle routes for families too.

Places to eat and drink

Summer’s the perfect time to tuck into the Island’s delicious freshly-grown local produce. There are many chocolate-box thatched pubs serving up smooth ales and traditional pub fayre. Or for something a little lighter, enjoy a selection of cakes and sandwiches at The Freshwater Coffee House, Dimbola Tea Room or the delightful Blue Door Café. 

Complete your summer trip by making the most of the warm days with a gin in hand at The Garlic Farm, The Cow Restaurant & Bar or Bluebells at Briddlesford. You’ll be surrounded by the most incredible Island views wherever you look, especiallyif you love seafood!

And, of course, you can’t visit the Island without enjoying fish and chips on the beach. Grab a blanket and watch the sun go down.

Adventure activities

Many people come back year after year to recapture the perfection of traditional seaside holidays. Others come to enjoy the sailing, watersports and sailor-life. Or if you’re looking to try a brand new sport or outdoor activity during your summer holiday, try your hand at paragliding in the West Wight, or climb a beautiful old oak tree in Appley Park to get the best views of the Solent.  

There are great family attractions to discover, too. Blackgang Chine – the UK’s oldest amusement park – is a favourite with kids big and small. Speed down the waterslide or brave the adrenaline-inducing roller coaster ride. Meet the goats and wallabies at Tapnell Farm Park, explore Osborne – Queen Victoria’s home, or dress up as a soldier at Carisbrooke Castle.

Plan your Isle of Wight summer holiday

Summer holidays are the perfect time to make the most out of the outdoors and the Isle of Wight is a great place to explore, sunbathe, relax and unwind. The slower pace of Island life and laid back vibe make summer holidays on the Isle of Wight something really special. 

Whether you’re looking for adventure or a relaxing escape, the Isle of Wight has something for all.

Don’t wait, Say YES to your very own Island paradise across the water this summer, and book your perfect accommodation here!