A beach for every office – our favourite coastal gems

When it comes to the Isle of Wight, there’s no shortage of stunning coastline to explore. From secluded coves to bustling seaside resorts, each stretch of beach around the Island offers its own unique charm.

The Hose Rhodes Dickson team are passionate locals who love the Island and make full use of the beaches all year round, so who better to share their favourite coastal hideaways than each of our branches…

Ryde: Appley Beach
Located just a stone’s throw from our Ryde office, Appley Beach is a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. With its seemingly golden sands, panoramic views of the Solent, and a pretty row of beach huts, it’s easy to see why this beach is one of the top on the Island. Take a leisurely stroll from one end to the other along the Esplanade, lined with bustling cafes; enjoy a family picnic on the grassy lawns, or just relax on the beach with a good book!

Shanklin: Shanklin Beach
Shanklin Beach offers that quintessential British seaside experience, with its sandy shores, traditional amusement arcades, and plenty of deckchairs to hire. From our Shanklin office, it’s just a short stroll down to the water’s edge, where you can dip your toes in the refreshing sea or build sandcastles with the little ones. Be sure to explore the picturesque Old Village nearby, with its thatched cottages and quaint tearooms.

Bembridge: Bembridge Beach
For those seeking some tranquility and natural beauty, Bembridge Beach is a true hidden gem. Nestled on the eastern tip of the Island, this unspoiled stretch of sand offers sweeping views of the Solent and the distant mainland. Just a five-minute stroll from the office, spend a peaceful afternoon beachcombing for shells, watching the sailboats bobbing on the horizon, or simply soaking up the sun in this idyllic coastal setting.

Ventnor: Steephill Cove
Tucked away between rugged cliffs and lush greenery, Steephill Cove is a secluded paradise that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Accessible only by foot or boat, this hidden gem offers crystal-clear waters, pretty beach huts, and a handful of cafes serving up freshly caught crab from the nearby waters. From our Ventnor office, it’s a scenic coastal walk to reach this retreat.

East Cowes: East Cowes Beach
East Cowes Beach is a quiet shingle and sand beach with fantastic views across West Cowes and its marina, and also out across the Solent. It is good for family swimming and as it is tucked away behind the town it is a great beach to visit if you are looking for somewhere a bit quieter.

With a great variety of vessels regularly moving through the Solent it is also a great vantage point for watching boats and yachts. (The beach does mostly disappear when the tide is right in, so make sure to check the tides if you are planning a trip here).

Cowes: Gurnard Beach
Gurnard Beach, just a short drive from our Cowes office, offers a blend of natural beauty and seaside charm. With its panoramic views of the Solent, it’s a popular spot for families and water sports enthusiasts alike, and a top spot for finding sea glass. After a day of fun in the sun, head to one of the nearby waterfront pubs for a well-deserved meal and a pint of local ale and watch the spectacular sunset unfold – Gurnard is one of the best spots to catch a famous Isle of Wight sunset.

Freshwater: Freshwater Bay
Freshwater Bay is one of the most picturesque beaches in West Wight and lies just to the South of the town of Freshwater. The beach is covered in a mixture of grey flint and chalk pebbles that make a unique sound as the waves rise and fall onto the shore. Smugglers once used the caves around the bottom of the chalk cliffs that are exposed at low tide – you can explore these with a local expert guide. The bay is popular with swimmers, paddleboarders and kayakers and is the perfect place to while away a few hours.

Newport: Compton Bay
Being in the centre of the Island, our Newport team can be at any beach they like within 15 minutes, so they have their pick of the Island! Compton Bay is a favourite among surfers, nature lovers, and beachcombers alike. Located on the Island’s rugged west coast, this expansive stretch of golden sand is backed by dramatic cliffs and offers stunning views out over the English Channel. Whether you’re soaking up the sun, exploring the tide pools, or catching waves on your surfboard, Compton Bay never fails to impress.