Hope Beach

Sandy golden stretches meet dramatic chalk cliffs at this relatively quiet spot on the Isle of Wight's southeast coast. Hope Beach sits between Sandown and Shanklin, offering a proper seaside experience without the crowds that pack the main resort beaches during peak season.

Families will find plenty of space for sandcastles and beach games, while the sheltered position makes it decent for swimming when the tide's right. The beach gets cut off at high tide in places, so check the timings if you're planning a long day out. Rock pooling enthusiasts should head towards the cliff base at low tide - there's usually something interesting lurking about.

Walkers can pick up the coastal path here, which gives cracking views back towards Culver Down and forward to Dunnose Point. It's a fairly gentle stroll in either direction, though the cliff top route can get a bit exposed when the wind's up.

Being free and accessible year-round, it works well as a spontaneous stop during a holiday park break. Parkdean's Lower Hyde sits less than a mile away, making it an easy walk or quick drive. Pack a picnic though - there's nothing much in the way of facilities here, which is part of its appeal. Two to three hours is usually enough unless you're settling in for a proper beach day.