Kitesurfing is one of the newest and most exciting extreme sports around. Huge colourful kites and tiny-strapped boards (much like wakeboards) are used from 10 knots upwards to surf the waves and get massive gliding jumps, loops and tricks. The Island offers a vast array of beaches suitable for both amateur and experienced kitesurfers, so why not drive around and explore them for yourselves.

The sport of windsurfing has a long history on the Island. On windy days you'll see wave sailors taking sail and board through 360° loops and jumps, while on lighter days, the coastal blasting is superb. The many venues on the Island cater for all levels from beginner to expert.

On a longboard during the summer months when the swells are small or in the autumn and winter when large swells pound the West side of the Island and surf spots turn on to the full, there are some excellent venues to choose from. Although there are many local surfers, the variety of locations keep the spots from overcrowding and, on the right day, you can surf some of Britain's best beach and reef breaks.

There are two schools on the Isle of Wight and some excellent venues. The Island is home to World Champions and is a great training ground from the experienced to the novice. The many variations in flying venues make it an ideal place to enjoy both of these extreme sports throughout the year.

Mountain bike trails make up for many miles of tracks and are a great way to see the Island. Ride up to one of the numerous hills and you'll get beautiful views across to the white cliffs at Poole and the busy shipping lanes of the Solent used by many a Wightlink ferry. On a clear day you can even see France.

The Island has a large contingent of youth skaters. In the last few years they have developed the sport to provide skate parks at various locations to cater for this growing area of Island life.