17 Apr 2011
Freshwater Bay
Freshwater Bay faces the English Channel and the Atlantic and is popular surf spot in the autumn and winter when waves break off the rocks on the point and roll into the Bay. Long rides on big days are common and there is an excellent viewing point from the sea wall next to the Albion Hotel.
Winter surfing at Freshwater Bay
In the summer the Bay is generally calm and is excellent for swimming, kayaking, rock pools and sunbathing. It’s also popular for diving and snorkling. Although pebbly, the left side of the beach is a real sun-trap, especially in the evenings.
But if you like to swim the Bay is the place. The water can be chilly because the beach shelves quite steeply and the water is fairly deep, so if you aren’t a confident swimmer don’t stray out too far. If you are a confident sea swimmer it’s possible to swim right across the bay to the Stag Rock or out to the point. But be careful as beyond the confines of the bay there are currents which can be strong when the tide is running.
Summer at Freshwater Bay
Freshwater Bay is an easy walk or cycle from the Studio Apartment and popular with the locals who swim in the mornings and evenings.
Plusses & Minuses
+ on your doorstep
+ a swim is a great way to start or end the day
+ rarely gets too busy
– swimming not advised in a big sea or swell
– a bit pebbly
– can be chilly!
If you would like to see more images of Isle of Wight surfing, scenery and wildlife check out www.paulblackley.co.uk and www.jasonswain.co.uk
