Top 10 Best Things to Do on the Isle of Wight This Summer (And the Best Way to Get There)

Looking for the perfect family adventure this summer for 2025?

The Isle of Wight offers everything from golden beaches and dinosaur footprints to charming seaside towns and action-packed parks. Whether you’re planning a family weekend break or a week-long escape, the Isle of Wight is a brilliant choice for families looking to unplug and reconnect.

And the best bit? Getting there is easier—and more exciting—than you think, especially when you travel with Wightlink Ferries. For our kids, the holiday starts with the ferry – they get so excited waiting in the port, and when you drive on, leave your car and get up to the top decks for the first time, your holiday really kicks off with a great start.

Here are our top 10 family-friendly things to do on the Isle of Wight this summer:

1. Blackgang Chine – The Land of Imagination

Britain’s oldest theme park is a wonderland for children (and a nostalgic hit for adults too). With dinosaur valleys, fairy castles, and a pirate cove, Blackgang Chine is all about letting imaginations run wild. It’s ideal for kids under 10, but the views and quirky charm appeal to everyone.

2. Tapnell Farm Park

This working farm-turned-family-attraction is packed with fun—think indoor soft play, go-karts, jumping pillows, wallabies, and water activities. It’s the ultimate blend of rural charm and kid-friendly excitement, with a laid-back vibe that makes it perfect for a stress-free family day out.

3. Shanklin Beach and Esplanade

Sandy toes, arcade games, and ice cream – Shanklin Beach is a classic seaside day out. Safe, shallow waters and plenty of facilities make it ideal for little ones. Don’t miss the dinosaur-themed crazy golf along the esplanade!

4. Dinosaur Island

The Isle of Wight is often called “Dinosaur Island” – and this museum is the reason why. Bursting with fossils and interactive exhibits, Dinosaur Isle is educational fun that’ll fascinate your young palaeontologists.

5. The Needles Landmark Attraction

Take the iconic chairlift down to Alum Bay, ride the vintage carousel, and make your own coloured sand souvenir. The Needles is a full family day out with stunning views and old-school charm.

6. Robin Hill Country Park

If your crew enjoys woodland adventures, Robin Hill is a must. With treetop walkways, toboggan runs, and outdoor shows, it offers a great mix of nature and thrills.

7. Ventnor Botanic Garden

Yes, a botanic garden might sound more ‘grandparents’ than ‘kids’—but Ventnor’s microclimate makes it feel like you’ve stepped into a tropical paradise. Kids love the tunnels, jungle-like paths, and space to run wild. A lovely break from more high-energy attractions.

8. Ryde’s Beaches and Hovercrafts

Ryde has one of the biggest stretches of sandy beach on the island, with amusements and playgrounds galore. Bonus points: it’s also home to the world’s only commercial hovercraft, which makes for an exciting (and fast) alternative way onto the island. It’s also a direct route to some fantastic shopping in Portsmouth.

9. Osborne House

Take a peek into royal history at Queen Victoria’s beloved summer home. While the house is fascinating, it’s the beach, gardens, and Swiss Cottage play area that make this a hit with families.

10. Explore by Bike or Foot

With miles of safe cycle paths and coastal walks, the Isle of Wight is ideal for outdoorsy families. Hire bikes and take on the Red Squirrel Trail—or slow things down with a pushchair-friendly stroll along the cliffs.

Getting There: Wightlink Makes it Easy

The journey over is part of the adventure—and Wightlink Ferries makes it a breeze for families. Whether you’re setting sail from Portsmouth, Lymington, or taking the foot passenger FastCat, Wightlink is the most convenient way to reach the island. We’ve used it just this easter, and once again, it hasn’t failed to be a super smooth process.

Plus, kids will love watching the boats and spotting landmarks as you cruise across the Solent. There are onboard snacks, plenty of space, and even dog-friendly areas if you’re bringing a four-legged family member too.

For flexibility, reliability, and a calm start to your holiday, Wightlink Ferries is our top pick for family travel.

So pack the buckets and spades, load up the car, and get ready to make some unforgettable family memories this summer—just don’t forget to book your ferry early!