Family Holidays

Tourism

The Isle of Wight is one of England's most established family holiday destinations. The combination of safe sandy beaches, outdoor attractions and manageable distances makes it well suited to families with children of all ages.

The best family beaches include Sandown, which has a long stretch of sand, lifeguards in summer, and a seafront with amusements and cafes. Shanklin beach is similarly well equipped. Ryde has shallow water that extends a long way out, making it safe for paddling. Yaverland, next to Sandown, is quieter and popular with fossil hunters.

Family attractions include Robin Hill Country Park, with outdoor adventure play, toboggan runs and a falconry centre. Blackgang Chine is the oldest amusement park in the UK, perched on the cliff at Chale. Amazon World Zoo Park at Arreton has tropical animals and birds. Dinosaur Isle at Sandown is a popular museum, and the island's beaches offer real fossil hunting opportunities.

For rainy days, the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, Carisbrooke Castle, Osborne House and the various museums provide indoor entertainment. Soft play centres are available in Newport and other towns.

Family accommodation ranges from holiday parks with swimming pools and entertainment to self-catering cottages, B&Bs and camping sites. Many holiday parks are concentrated in the Sandown and Shanklin area. Camping and glamping sites are found across the island, with several offering family-friendly facilities.