Priory Bay
Sand beach
Priory Bay is one of the Isle of Wight's hidden treasures, a secluded sandy beach on the north-east coast that can only be reached on foot, either through woodland from the village of Nettlestone or along the coastal path from Seaview or St Helens. The absence of road access keeps visitor numbers down and gives the beach a peaceful, almost private atmosphere that is rare on an island as popular as the Wight.
The beach itself is a crescent of fine sand backed by low wooded cliffs. At low tide it extends to a generous size, with firm sand that is excellent for walking. The water is clean and sheltered, facing north-east across the Solent towards the mainland. On a calm day the sea is often flat, and the views across to the Spithead anchorage and the Hampshire coast are excellent. You can watch the ferries, yachts and occasionally naval vessels passing back and forth, which provides entertainment of a gentle kind.
The woodland walk down to the beach is part of the experience. The path passes through mature deciduous trees, with bluebells in spring and dappled shade in summer. It takes about ten minutes from the nearest road and the descent is not steep. The Priory Bay Hotel owns the land behind the beach and maintains the path, though the beach itself is public and there is no charge for access.
There are no public facilities at Priory Bay. No toilets, no cafe, no lifeguards, no bins. Visitors need to bring everything with them and carry their rubbish out. This self-reliant approach is part of what keeps the beach special. The hotel occasionally offers refreshments to beach visitors, but this cannot be relied upon and checking in advance is advisable.
The foreshore includes areas of rock and seaweed as well as sand, and at low tide rock pools form around the headlands at either end. These are worth exploring for crabs, shrimp, anemones and small fish. The rocks can be slippery, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
Priory Bay has a long history. The name derives from a medieval priory that once stood nearby, and the bay has been used by smugglers, fishermen and, during the Second World War, as a practice area for the D-Day landings. Today it is simply one of the most pleasant places on the island to spend a quiet afternoon.
The nearest parking is in Nettlestone or along the road between Seaview and St Helens. The walk from Seaview along the coastal path is about a mile and passes through attractive scenery. Priory Bay is dog-friendly year-round, which adds to its appeal for walkers.
This is not a beach for those who want facilities and easy access. It is a beach for those who value peace, natural beauty and the slight sense of discovery that comes from reaching a place that cannot be driven to.