Parking

Transport

Parking on the Isle of Wight is generally easier than in mainland towns, though beach car parks and town centres fill up quickly during summer. The Isle of Wight Council operates most public car parks, with charges typically applying from 8am to 6pm, seven days a week including bank holidays.

Newport has the most car parks, including Hearn Street in the town centre, the St James's Street car park, and several others within walking distance of the high street. Ryde, Sandown, Shanklin and Ventnor all have council-run car parks, though spaces near the seafront are at a premium in summer.

Beach parking varies by location. Compton Bay has a National Trust car park (free for members). Sandown and Shanklin have large seafront car parks with seasonal pricing. Freshwater Bay has limited roadside parking that fills early on sunny days. Some beaches, like Priory Bay and Brook Bay, require walking from the nearest road.

The council sells tourist parking permits valid from 2 to 14 days, covering most on-street and off-street spaces managed by the council. These can represent good value for visitors staying more than a few days. Payment is increasingly by phone or app via MiPermit, though machines still accept coins at most locations.

There is a park and ride facility at Somerton in Cowes. Ferry terminals have their own parking, with charges varying by operator and duration.