Beaches

There a numerous beaches and bays to explore on the island. The west and south sides of the island tend to be the quieter sides. At the Linstone site you have  your own private section of the beautiful Colwell Bay which is a mixture of pebble and sand. Access to the beach from our site is via a set of wooden steps*, wheelchair access is via Colwell Bay. The sea is crystal clear and it is a safe swimming area. The chalets are five minutes drive or 15-20 minutes walk from the beach.

The section of beach that runs along Linstone Chine is completely un-spoilt with only the cliffs as a backdrop and Fort Albert at one end. You can walk along Colwell Bay to the promenade end (slightly busier) and around the headland to Totland Bay.

  • *Current beach access has been closed due to storm damage. These steps are owned and managed by the IWCC.

Alum Bay

Children love to create their own ornaments filled with the famous coloured sands.

There are fantastic views of the Needles and it is a good place to watch the sunset.

Shanklin

Whatever your age or interests there are lots of things to do in Shanklin. The Shanklin Esplanade, lined with traditional seaside games, amusements, cafes, hotels, restaurants and bars, is the perfect place to while away your day. Getting from the Esplanade to the cliff path with access to the town and Old Village is made easy by the cliff lift.

Shanklin offers a lovely mix of the seaside and open, green space with some fantastic parks and gardens. Rylstone Gardens provide the most tranquil and beautiful spot to sit and soak up the sunshine. Look out for the extensive programme of events at the Bandstand located in the Gardens. The famous Shanklin Chine, a gorge with rare plants and delightful waterfall, is quite simply unique.  Lose yourself in the history and character of Shanklin Old Village packed with charming thatched cottages most housing wonderful, unique gift shops and tea rooms.  As it is such a popular resort there is no shortages of places to eat in Shanklin. If you’re eating out you will be spoilt for choice with a range of restaurants, cafes and pubs spread across the resort, some with entertainment throughout the summer evenings.

Compton Beach

Reminiscent of the beaches in Cornwall or even on the west coast of America, and popular with surfers, Compton is a totally natural do-it-yourself beach. Bring all you need including windbreaks (if necessary), body and surf boards and food and drink, although there is an ice-cream van that also vends beverages, snacks and a few beach toys.

Newly restored steep steps lead down to the beach from Hanover Point/Shippard’s Chine where there is a large National Trust (NT) car park, toilet facilities and fresh water tap or drive further west to Compton Chine/Farm and find a smaller NT car park on the opposite side of the coastal road and tiered steep steps down to the beach.