Things to do in a day on the Isle of Wight

Only a short hop across the water, the Isle of Wight boasts endless opportunities to try something new. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, nature lover, hiker or foodie, there are plenty of things to see, do and explore – right from the rambling countryside down to the sun-soaked coast. With wide expansive beaches, rocky coves, rolling hills, valley plains, harbours and rivers, the Isle of Wight is an explorer’s dream destination. So, what’s your idea of a perfect day trip?

Visit our things to do page to search for a variety of attractions and activities that will keep you entertained. 

If you are planning an Isle of Wight day trip from London then South Western Railway offer regular services from Waterloo station to Portsmouth Harbour and Southampton Central stations while Southern Trains have other services from Victoria.

Check out the ferry times and look out for special offers from Hovertravel, Red Funnel and Wightlink, designed for you, the daytripper.

If you aren’t bringing a car then make sure you take advantage of our excellent Southern Vectis bus network - from regular services between all our major towns and picturesque villages, to some great excursion buses taking in the beautiful Isle of Wight scenery.

There are also regular trains from the Fastcat terminal on Ryde Pier through the towns of East Wight, Ryde, Brading, Sandown and Shanklin. Ideal for the traveller who is tight for time.

Here are some other ideas for things to do in a day trip or long weekend on the Island. Exploration awaits...

Head to our Ways to Save section for money saving tips to the Isle of Wight.

A day on the water

With 60 miles of coastline and 14 award-winning beaches, the Isle of Wight is a true surfers’ paradise. Why not take a dip in the sea and learn to surf at on the east side of the Island? Sandown, Shanklin and Lake Beach are great spots for sunbathing, swimming and watersports, with waves sturdy enough to carry a board, but steady enough to perfect your technique. A great spot for kayaking, surfing, SUP and body boarding, there’s equipment to hire along the beach too.

For the more experienced surfer, head to Compton Bay and pick up the rollers that sweep in from the English Channel. A rugged bay lined with cliffs concealing prehistoric treasures, Compton and the west coast of the Island is the perfect place to feel at one with nature, the power of the water and the force of the elements. Compton is one of the Island’s best-kept secrets, making it popular with surfers, paragliders and kite surfers looking to make the most of the waves.

The Island also boasts a couple of winding rivers that are calm enough to try your hand at stand up paddle boarding. It’s easy when you get the hang of it and you’ll wonder why you never tried it before! Lazily make your way down the River Yar on the west side of the Island, or paddle down the River Medina to the very centre of the Isle of Wight – perhaps stopping off at Island Harbour or the Folly Inn for some much-needed refreshments.

If you enjoy a challenge, give wild swimming a go and take a dip in the waters around the Isle of Wight. Thirteen beaches are rated as excellent for water quality, particularly at the secluded bays of St Helen's, Ventnor or Colwell. 

The Isle of Wight is globally renowned as a centre for sailing, hosting the world famous Cowes Week Regatta and the Round the Island Race. If you’d like to be part of the action, why not learn to sail off our shores and take to the waters to see the Island from a different perspective? With shallow waters and miles of golden sand, the busy seaside town of Ryde is the perfect stop-off point for families heading onto the Island for a sailing holiday. Or if you enjoy getting close to nature, the Newton National Nature Reserve is a hidden gem with a few visitor moorings allowing keen sailors the chance to get away from it all.

Must visit places to visit in a day on the Isle of Wight

Whether you have come by car or are taking public transport, you need to have a plan of what you want to see.

Are you a culture vulture? If so, there is heaps of history to keep you happy, from the Romans to Victorians and 20th Century events.

Maybe you are looking for a beautiful beach to relax on or stroll along - if so, why not head to the soft white sands of Appley, Ryde; the fun on the sands at Sandown and Shanklin or the pebble beach and caves at Freshwater Bay.

Nature lovers will find loads to see on the scenic downland, coastal fringes or wonderful woodlands.

If you are a foodie, there are some top restaurants, cosy pubs for a pie and a pint or cafes and tearooms offering mouthwatering cakes and scones to enjoy with your cuppa.

Spend the day on two wheels

The Isle of Wight has so much to explore – and what better way to get across the Island than by bike? A huge 200 miles of cycle tracks criss-cross the Isle of Wight, meaning you can explore almost every inch of it by bike. Pedalling between coast and country, you won’t tire of the breathtaking views the Island has to offer. One of just seven destinations awarded UNESCO Biosphere Status in the UK, the Isle of Wight is recognised for its unspoiled landscape, thriving wildlife and sparkling blue waters. 

If you’re looking for more of a challenge on two wheels, why not take on the entire coastal route? At 65 miles, the ‘Round the Island’ route offers a unique cycling experience over rolling downs, through winding woodland, across dizzying cliff tops and through boutique towns and sleepy thatched villages. 

Less experienced riders needn’t worry. There are plenty of shorter, gentler routes for the whole family to enjoy, too. The Red Squirrel Trail is a particular family favourite. With smooth cycleways winding through 32 miles of glorious Island countryside, you’ll get the chance to see some stunning wildlife habitats, fantastic coastal scenery and, of course, red squirrels! Be sure to look close enough for these cute critters once you reach Alverstone Mead Nature Reserve. The route can be broken down into four sections, making it much more manageable for the younger ones (or nan and grandad!).

If you fancy extending your trip, there’s plenty of cycle-friendly accommodation dotted throughout the Island that guarantee a comfy bed alongside a warm and friendly welcome.

Historical sites to explore

Carisbrooke Castle, where King Charles I awaited his grizzly fate, Osborne House, the much-loved home of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, Brading Roman Villa and The Needles Battery - the Isle of Wight has history by the bucketload, whatever your period.

And don’t forget Shanklin Chine with its exhibition about PLUTO (Pipeline Under the Ocean) which fuelled the D-Day Landings.

Or if really ancient history is up your street, Dinosaur Isle at Sandown tells the story of the ferocious prehistoric beasts that once roamed the Island.

A spot of retail therapy

Looking to shop 'til you drop? The Isle of Wight is a treasure trove for those who love a bit of retail therapy. Wander through quaint coastal towns and discover unique boutiques and charming artisan shops that are brimming with one-of-a-kind finds. From handmade crafts to stylish fashion, and local delicacies to delightful souvenirs, shopping on the Isle of Wight is more than just a spree - it's an experience. 

Whether you’re on the hunt for a special gift, the perfect outfit, or just want to treat yourself, you'll find plenty of reasons to fill your bags. And when you need a break, why not recharge at one of our cosy cafés or stylish restaurants? After all, shopping is hard work!

Trying something new

Feeling adventurous? Then reach new heady heights at Goodleaf Tree Climbing. Just a two-minute walk from Appley Beach in Ryde, you’ll learn about the wonders of a majestic oak tree in the safe hands of qualified and experienced instructors before being let loose to climb as high as your legs will take you. Once you’ve reached the top, sit back in a tree top hammock, relax and enjoy the views surrounded by nature.

If you have a need for speed, head to Wight Karting and experience the thrill of their all-weather floodlit track, where their 4-stroke petrol karts race their way around the 520 metre track. In a competitive mood? Then race against the entire family and see who comes out on top!

For something completely different, why not book an exhilarating RIB ride? Departing from The Needles Rocks and Lighthouse, you’ll journey on a circular route around the bay, passing multi-coloured sands, dramatic chalk cliffs and the military forts that once protected the area.

Why not explore the Island on four legs instead of two! Learn to ride a horse at the Island Riding Centre, or head off on horseback and discover the Island from a new perspective. Always wanted to ride a horse on the beach? Tick that off your bucket list with a visit to the Isle of Wight as well!

You could also try your hand at fishing and crabbing off the Island's unique shoreline by booking a boat charter. Perfect for keen fishermen or those who want to learn, go as a family, with a group or push the boat out and hire a private charter. The boat has wheelchair access, enabling everyone to enjoy spectacular views of the Island.

Scenic walks on the Isle of Wight in a day

Those who want to take in some of the stunning Isle of Wight scenery under their own steam, have the choice of some fabulous long-distance treks, such as the Tennyson Trail or the Isle of Wight Coastal Path; or more gentle experiences such as the Revetment between Sandown and Shanklin which gives stunning views of the twin coastal towns from this nice, flat sea wall, with cafes and ice cream shops aplenty along the way.

The Downland Way along the spine of the Isle of Wight offers some mind-boggling views of our lovely countryside and, on a clear day, Portsmouth, the South Downs and Bournemouth.

Look out for the Pepperpot at Chale, the Longstone at Mottistone, Tennyson Monument, St Catherine's Lighthouse at Niton, the Yarborough Monument and the iconic Needles Landmark and coloured cliffs at Alum Bay on your adventure.

Refuelling during your day on the Isle of Wight

Let’s face it, you are going to feel a little peckish with all this walking, biking, and exploring.

We all love a tearoom or café on our holidays, and the Isle of Wight has a bountiful supply of amazing ones.

The Quirky Teapot, on the outskirts of Newport, is just one of these - offering cream teas, afternoon teas (do you know the difference? They do!) and scrummy cakes.

Or how about award-winning Blueberrys at Shanklin, which can supply stunning views of Sandown Bay alongside its delicious food.

If a spot of fine dining is what you are after, then enjoy a meal at one of the Island's top dining and social hotspots.

The Hut at Colwell Bay, the Smoking Lobster in Cowes and Ventnor, The George at Yarmouth, The Hambrough at Ventnor, The Seaview Hotel and The Royal Hotel at Ventnor all serve up delicious food, a fine list of wines and the best sea views. Dreamy!

Spend a day relaxing in the gardens at Northwood House, with a delicious menu, tempting cocktails and croquet on the lawn, proceeded by firepits and blankets to see you into the night.

Dining out with the family? The Chequers Inn, The Fighting Cocks, The Garlic Farm, The Caulkheads and The Griffin all have great outdoor play facilities for kids.

Or, why not create your perfect picnic to enjoy at one of our many beauty spots to have with friends, family or to romance a date? Pack a hamper laden with the best of the Island's flavourful local produce, like deliciously sweet tomatoes, rich creamy cheeses, mouth-watering chutneys, locally reared meats, locally caught seafood, all finished with the Island's signature Mermaid G&T. What a way to spend a day!