Day Guide: Alum Bay & Shanklin Beach (Isle of Wight)

Enjoy two of the Isle of Wight’s most iconic coastal destinations in one day: the dramatic cliffs and colourful sands of Alum Ba, and the golden beaches and charming esplanade of Shanklin.

Getting There

Your adventure begins with a coach journey to the south coast, followed by a ferry crossing to the Isle of Wight. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the Solent and sets the tone for a relaxing day by the sea.

Return Ferry: 7:30 PM – giving you plenty of time to explore and unwind before heading back.

Suggested Itinerary

Morning – Alum Bay & The Needles (3–4 hours)

The Needles Landmark: Capture panoramic views of the chalk stacks and lighthouse.

Chairlift Ride: Glide down to Alum Bay beach for spectacular scenery.

Boat Trip: Cruise close to The Needles for unforgettable photo opportunities.

Colored Sand Souvenir: Fill a glass ornament with Alum Bay’s famous sands.

Glass & Sweet Shops: Watch traditional glassmaking and sample local treats.

Lunch

Enjoy a quick bite at Alum Bay or en route to Shanklin (approx. 40–55 minutes by coach).

Afternoon – Shanklin Beach & Chine (3–4 hours)

Beach Time: Relax on the sandy shore or paddle in the gentle waves.

Water Sports: Try paddleboarding, kayaking, or hire a pedalo.

Shanklin Chine: Explore the historic gorge with waterfalls and lush greenery.

Esplanade Stroll: Indulge in ice cream, visit arcades, and enjoy seaside views.

Optional Coastal Walk: Continue along the path to Sandown for more stunning vistas.

Travel Tips

Comfort: Bring light layers, sun protection, and comfortable shoes.

Return Ferry at 7:30 PM: Plan to leave Shanklin by 6:00 PM to allow for travel back to the port.

Online prices will differ*

🇬🇧 London Day Trip  Itinerary

🕛 12:00pm – Arrive at Buckingham Palace

🚍 Step off your executive coach in royal style

👑 Meet & greet + photos at the Palace gates

🎥 Watch the Guards (if timed right!)

🌳 Quick stroll through the grounds

1:00pm – Back on the coach → Next stop! 🚍

🕒 1:15pm – Embankment (3.5 hours to explore!)

Sights to visit within walking distance:

🕰 Big Ben

🎡 London Eye

⛪ Westminster Abbey

🏛 Houses of Parliament

🌉 Thames River stroll

🚤 Optional river cruise

🍦 Street snacks & ice cream

📸 Plenty of family photo spots

4:45pm – Back on the coach 🚍

⭐ 5:00pm – Trafalgar Square & Piccadilly Circus (1.5 hours)

🎨 Trafalgar Square – fountains, lions & culture

💡 Piccadilly Circus – neon lights & buzz

🛍 Quick souvenir shopping

🍔 Grab a bite or fun snacks

🎭 Walk towards Leicester Square if time .

6:30pm – Board coach for home 🚍

🏠 7:00pm – Return Journey Home

🛋 Relax, chat, share photos

🌙 A fun London day wrapped up beautifully!

*pls note a £2 booking fees is applied to the online booking 

*pls note a £2 booking fee is applied on the online purchase.