We have handpicked some of the best places to Kayak on the Isle of Wight, to help you enjoy the island’s waters.
The Isle of Wight really is a haven for kayakers with its diverse and beautiful landscape and hidden rivers and safe beaches, you have endless possibilities to explore by water.
Here are some tried and tested kayaking destinations on the island.
Freshwater Bay and the Needles
Freshwater Bay is a popular spot for kayaking and some might say it’s the best beach to Kayak from on the Isle of Wight if your looking for extreme scenery, with its stunning cliffs and caves offering a unique perspective of the island’s coastline. The water is gin clear on a summers day and there is plenty to see as you paddle.
The nearby River Yar, heading towards Yarmouth harbour is also a great option, providing a tranquil escape into the heart of the island’s countryside. (You will need to drive into Freshwater to access the River).
Check the tides and weather for Freshwater Bay, the beach is quite steep so launching your Kayak with strong waves pounding onto the beach may make it hard to land safely. The tides can become very strong pushing around from the needles so familiarise yourself with the tides and current before heading out. There is plenty of parking near the beach, don’t forget your beach shoes the beach is large pebbles.
If you are planning on heading towards the Needles and around to Yarmouth, the tide is incredibly strong through Hurst point and past Hurst Castle on the mainland – we would not recommend attempting this unless you have extensive safety equipment and know the areas well.
The Medina River
The Medina River offers a peaceful and sheltered kayaking experience, perfect for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed river paddle on the Isle of Wight. The river flows between Cowes and Newport, offering picturesque views of the island’s towns and countryside. The former railway line runs from Newport right down to Cowes, and the whole area is rich in history.
Keep an eye out for;
The Folly Inn: A popular pub and restaurant located around half way along the River Medina. It’s a great place to stop and enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the beautiful views of the river. You can take your Kayak up the small shingle beach and leave safely whilst you grab a bite to eat.
Newport Quay:
Newport Quay is a historic area of the River Medina that features old warehouses and buildings that have been converted into shops, restaurants, and galleries. It’s a great place to explore and learn about the island’s history.
Cowes Harbour: Cowes Harbour is a large, busy port located at the mouth of the River Medina. It’s a great place to watch the boats come and go and take in the sights and sounds of a bustling port. You can launch from East Cowes seafront where the beach approach is gentle and shingle and there is plenty of free parking. Alternatively launch from the Folly Inn and have some lunch!
Cowes Kingston Power Station:
Opened in 1982, on the site of a former coal fired power station. It is the only major power station on the Isle of Wight.
Vestas Wind Turbine Factory:
The Vestas Wind Turbine Factory is located on the west side of the River Medina and is one of the largest employers on the Isle of Wight. The factory produces wind turbines for use in onshore and offshore wind farms around the world. You can see the blades being transported down the river if your lucky.
The Wreck of PS RYDE PADDLE STEAMER:
Stop at Island Harbour Marina, the entrance is locked but there is a small pontoon to alight or the shingle beach near high tide is also suitable to approach the beach. Check out the dilapated ruins of PS Ryde hiding just to the right of the Marina along the riverside path. It was originally a passenger ferry between Ryde Pier and Portsmouth from 1937 to 1969. She saw wartime service and later became a nightclub at Binfield on the River Medina.
There are some zones to avoid and these are marked. Please read the Cowes Harbour Commission safety information for exclusion zones to ensure your paddle is safe: Rowing and Canoeing in Cowes Harbour and the River Medina (cowesharbourcommission.co.uk)
Compton Bay
Compton Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches on the far south of the island and offers a unique kayaking experience on calm days. Paddle along the clear waters and explore the rock formations while enjoying the stunning views of the coastline.
You will have to park and carry your Kayak down the steep steps, you can also enter the water at Freshwater bay and paddle around if you are a strong swimmer on a calm day.
Search for the shipwreck of the old tug boat the SS Carbon beneath you on a still summers day. And we can’t promise it but you may be lucky to spot dolphins off the beach on a summers day.
Check our our free holiday and day trip planners – giving you more time to enjoy your holiday!
Wotton Creek
Wootton Creek is a popular location for kayaking and canoeing, as it offers calm waters and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, you also have good parking and good access to shops/public conveniences if needed.
In terms of parking your car, there is a slipway by the bridge, then you can launch and move your car to the street parking or the smaller car park in Wotton.
It’s worth noting that Wootton Creek is a tidal creek, so it’s important to plan your kayaking trip around the tides to avoid getting stranded or caught in the mud or in strong currents. It’s a busy, interesting creek with so much to see, you could easily spend a day here exploring. If you are heading out into the Solent take care, this area of water is busy with the ferries coming into Fishbourne and there are some dangerous hidden underwater structures to both the right and left of the exit of the creek entrance. Some of the beaches are private so be sure to check before running up a beach for a picnic!
Remember, it’s always a good idea to wear a life jacket or personal flotation device and to be aware of other water users, such as boats and other kayakers.
Have a great adventure! Check out easy access slipways to launch.
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