The Isle of Wight’s top 10 most-recommended beaches to visit in summer

We asked, you answered: Recommended by the people who know the Isle of Wight best – the ones who visit, love it, live it and never stop finding new corners of it!

If there’s one thing we’ve learnt over the years, it’s this: when we ask for recommendations, you never hold back. So, when we asked our Facebook community to:

You delivered. In a big way.

More than 490 of you jumped in to share your favourites, from long sandy stretches perfect for family days out to hidden coves that hold decades of memories.

And because we sail thousands of people to the Island every day, we know just how valuable this kind of local knowledge really is.

By the end of this blog, you’ll know exactly where to head for your first (or next) summer beach day on the Island. Whether you’re chasing classic seaside vibes, peaceful swims, dog-friendly walks or those places that simply feel like home.

Let’s dive in.

Shanklin Beach came out on top by a clear margin with a whopping 135 mentions.

Time and again, you told us this is the ultimate all-rounder. A long sandy beach backed by the iconic esplanade, plenty of places to eat, traditional seaside charm and easy access for everyone.

One commenter summed it up perfectly: “Shanklin is my happy place. Plenty to do, plenty of memories.”

Whether it’s building sandcastles, strolling the seafront or walking south toward Luccombe when the tide is out, Shanklin ticks every box for first-time visitors.

Why people love it: Classic seaside atmosphere, golden sand, cafés, ice cream and space for everyone.

Hot on Shanklin’s heels was Appley Beach with 110 mentions, the love here runs deep.

Appley was described as “paradise”, “Caribbean-like when the tide’s out” and a place many of you return to again and again. The long stretch of sand, shallow water and rockpools make it ideal for families, while the views of Ryde Pier and passing boats give it real character.

One comment stood out: “Clear water, shallow pools, shade when you need it, everything you want in one place.”

Not to mention, Appley Beach is right on the doorstep of our Ryde port, only a 22-minute ferry ride from Portsmouth. Making it perfect for a spontaneous beach day away.

Why people love it: Safe swimming, huge tidal sands, rockpools and that unmistakable Ryde charm.

A firm family favourite, Sandown Beach earned its place in the top three with ease.

You mentioned its wide sandy bay, easy parking, dog-friendly sections and the way it blends seamlessly into Yaverland. For many, it’s tied to childhood holidays and long summer days.

As one of you put it: “We’re there four times a week in summer. Loungers, brolly, prime spot. Love it.”

Why people love it: Big open sands, easy access, great facilities and a proper holiday feel.

If West Wight had a champion, Colwell Bay would be it.

This beach cropped up again and again as a peaceful, scenic favourite, especially at low tide when the sands stretch out and the water calms. It’s ideal for swimming, thanks to its gentle waters and slowly sloping sand and shingle.

Many of you shared memories growing up in Freshwater or returning year after year.

“Some of my happiest childhood summers were spent here,” one commenter shared.

Why people love it: Calm waters, sunset views, relaxed atmosphere and space to breathe.

Ventnor Beach holds a special place in a lot of hearts.

Tucked on the south coast of the Island, it’s smaller and more intimate than some of the bigger bays. Ventnor was praised for swimming, nostalgia and its slightly tucked-away feel.

It’s also often claimed to be one of the warmest spots on the Island thanks to Ventnor’s mild microclimate.

“Lovely little beach and the best pub right next to it,” said one commenter and we know exactly which pub they mean, The Spyglass Inn, which also topped our list of the Island’s most-recommended places to eat.

Why people love it: Sheltered swimming, character, memories and a proper coastal town vibe.

For wild beauty, it doesn’t get much better than Compton Bay.

This was on of the most-mentioned west-facing beach by far, with people praising its dramatic cliffs, space, surf and sense of escape. It’s also a favourite for fossil hunting and at low tide, even dinosaur footprints can be spotted.

“One of the Island’s best kept secrets, that’s why I love it,” one person wrote.

Why people love it: Big skies, surfing, fossils, walks and untamed scenery.

Often mentioned alongside Sandown, Yaverland stood out in its own right.

Popular with water sports fans, you’ll often spot kitesurfers and windsurfers here in the summer months. The beach is sensibly sectioned to ensure safe swimming areas too.

Dog-friendly, quieter and perfect for parking close to the beach, it’s a go-to for relaxed days out. Several of you highlighted how easy it is with kids and dogs alike.

Why people love it: Easy access by bus, wide sands, dog-friendly areas and a calmer feel.

St Helens Duver earned plenty of love for its peaceful charm.

This spot came up repeatedly for rockpooling, paddleboarding and those slow, unhurried beach days.

Many mentioned the amazing viewpoint for sea life and passing ships. As well as sea life, the beach is also home to a flock of Hebridean sheep, alexanders flowers, red squirrels, blackcap and many other small birds.

Why people love it: Shallow water, rockpools, peaceful walks and classic village charm.

When it comes to nostalgia and natural beauty, Whitecliff Bay really struck a chord.

From caravan holidays to family traditions spanning generations, this beach clearly means a lot. The curved bay, clear water and sense of seclusion make it feel special.

Home to Away Resorts Whitecliff Bay Holiday Park, boasting an impressive range of amenities, including a restaurant and bar, both outdoor and indoor swimming pools, an adventure playground, an indoor soft play area, and a delightful crazy golf course.

“It still feels like coming home,” said one commenter and that sums it up perfectly.

Why people love it: Clear water, dramatic setting and powerful family memories.

Rounding out the top ten is Priory Bay, a beach often described as “worth the effort.”

The coast is rocky with evidence of walls and buttresses that were built to protect the coastline. The bay is also surrounded by woodland known as Priory Woods owned by the National Trust, making it a perfect destination for exploring all terrains.

Harder to reach but incredibly rewarding, it was praised for its unspoilt feel and quieter atmosphere. If you like your beaches a little more hidden, this one’s for you.

Why people love it: Seclusion, natural beauty and a real sense of discovery.

These didn’t quite crack the top ten by comment count, but they came up again and again. Often wrapped in memories, insider tips or a quiet “don’t tell everyone”.

Bembridge Beach – Loved for crabbing, harbour views and calm waters, especially popular with families and early risers.

Seaview – A classic village beach with big character, boat-watching and that timeless holiday feel.

Brook Beach – Rugged, dramatic and perfect for fossil hunting and blustery walks when you want space.

Totland Bay – Frequently praised for swimming and sunsets, with a relaxed west coast pace.

Steephill Cove – A real favourite for those in the know. Steep steps, crystal-clear water and zero rush.

Puckpool Park & Beach – Rockpools, sea views and a gentler feel just outside Ryde.

Alum Bay – Iconic coloured sands and big views, often mentioned alongside Compton for sheer wow factor.

Seagrove Bay – Quiet, scenic and often named by those looking to escape the busier resorts.

Getting the most out of an Island beach day is all about a little forward thinking and knowing when to let the tide do the talking.

• Our ferries connect you easily to the Island via three routes, putting beaches across the north, east and west within easy reach.
• Check tide times before you go, many of the Island’s beaches transform completely when the sea goes out, revealing huge sandy stretches and rockpools.
• Pick two or three nearby beaches rather than trying to do everything in one day. Some of the best moments come from slowing down.
• Facilities vary, so if cafés, loos or parking matter to you, it’s worth a quick check before setting off.
• Travelling with dogs? Several beaches have seasonal dog-friendly areas, making it easy to plan ahead.
• With regular crossings from Portsmouth and Lymington, even a spontaneous beach day is well within reach.

Whether you’re chasing long sandy walks, quiet swims, childhood nostalgia or your new happy place, the Island’s beaches always deliver.

And thanks to hundreds of locals and visitors sharing their trusted favourites, you’ve now got a community-approved shortlist ready and waiting.

See original post for even more recommendations.