Say YES to outdoor day trips 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 outdoor day trip?

Visit our things to do page to search for a variety of attractions and activities that will keep you entertained. We advise you to check the attraction/activity's own website to view the latest information before you visit. 

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

Say YES to getting out 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.

Say YES to exploring the Island 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.

Say YES to 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.

Say YES to taking a stroll

From keen hikers to slow-paced wanderers, the Isle of Wight offers visitors the chance to explore the beauty of the Island and connect with the natural wonders you’ll find along the way. There are plenty of gentle family-friendly walks that are perfect for getting outside in the fresh air. Pick a route and see where you end up.

Looking for a pint with a view? Or perhaps you’re tempted to try some hearty Island grub? There are plenty of Isle of Wight walks with a pub along the way. Work up a sweat before stopping for a delicious bite to eat surrounded by magnificent views. There’s so much choice, you won’t know where to start!

Explore this historic destination in a relaxed fashion with the Isle of Wight Slow Guide and discover hidden treasures that you will only find on two feet - like the beautiful Steephill Cove. Hidden just below Ventnor Botanic Garden, the cove is set in acres of land where rare and exotic plants flourish in the unique microclimate of the south side of the Isle of Wight. Or take a stroll along the Esplanade at Ryde to the golden sands of Appley. 

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or emerging with a new lease of life, seize the day and try something new on the Isle of Wight.