Cowes Beach

Cowes Beach - Isle of Wight
© Euchiasmus and licensed for reuse under this Licence

The long pebble beach at Cowes is backed by a wide esplanade. It makes a great place to sit and watch the various yachting events that take place here, including the prestigious “Cowes Week” sailing regatta in August.  The beach has views over the Solent, and at any time of year it is a good vantage point for watching cruise ships and container vessels sailing by from Southampton.

Although the beach is mainly shingle, some sand is exposed at low tide.  A variety of interesting shells often get washed up onto the shore as well as pieces of smooth, coloured glass. 
The beach is not particularly suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs, although the esplanade which runs along the seafront allows those who don’t want to go onto the beach itself to make the most of the views and breathe in the sea air.

Running behind much of the esplanade is a grassy park with colourful flowerbeds, suitable for picnics.  A kiosk immediately next to the beach is pen in the summer months, selling ice-creams, snacks and a variety of beach goods.

A short stroll from the beach, the timeless Victorian resort of Cowes has a wide range of classy shops, restaurants and other amenities.
 
At the eastern end of the beach is the Royal Yacht Squadron, at Cowes Castle, originally built in 1539 as part of Henry VIII’s defences.

Type of beach

Shingle

Lifeguard service

No

Dogs friendly beach?

Dogs are not permitted on these beaches between 1 May and 30 September. This does not include registered assistance dogs.

Isle of Wight dog friendly beaches »

Activities

  • Sailing

Facilities

  • Cafe/restaurant
  • Toilets
  • Disabled facilities
  • Town centre nearby
  • Shop
  • Pub nearby
  • Picnic area
  • Promenade

Nearest town

Cowes

Postcode

PO31 8BW

OS grid ref.

SZ 4889 9664

Parking

There is parking at the beach for approximately 200 cars. including spaces for disabled people. There is a charge for using the car park.

Water quality

Water quality star rating

Awards

Marine Conservation Society Recommended

Submit a correction