for more information please visit:- www.iwight.com/just_visiting/beaches

Isle of Wight Festival is a music festival which takes place annually in June at Seaclose Park, Newport. It was originally held from 1968 to 1970, with the 1970 festival being by far the largest and most famous event of its kind in the world at that time.

The event was revived in 2003 and has continued to grow in size and stature, attracting some 50,000 visitors and some of the most notable artists including the Rolling Stones, Muse, Stereophonics, Donovan, Ray Davies, Robert Plant, David Bowie, Manic Street Preachers, The Who, R.E.M., Coldplay, The Proclaimers, Bryan Adams and The Police.

The Isle of Wight has more than 500 miles of carefully maintained public rights of way, a network providing access to most of its 147 square miles of glorious coast and countryside. This offers an excellent environment for walkers.

Over half of the Island has been designated by the Countryside Commission as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and there are almost 30 miles of 'Heritage Coast' a designation applied to coastlines of only the highest quality in England and Wales. The diversity of this unspoilt landscape makes walking a delight. Discover the panoramic views from the high downs, much of which are in the care of the National Trust, the tranquillity of ancient forests, the picturesque farms and villages nestling in fertile valleys and some 60 miles of stunning, unspoilt coastline.

Located within 2 minutes walk from the St Martins Apartments, Isle of Wight Sea Kayaking is the South's Specialist - delivering high quality sea kayak coaching, day trips and courses, based at Freshwater Bay in the Sandpipers Complex, which can be found by walking through the Freshwater Bay Car Park.

No experience is needed to have a go and they provide all equipment, including wetsuits, buoyancy aids and waterproof tops.

01983 752043

Since 1826 Cowes week has played a key part in the British Sporting Calendar and is one of the UK’s longest running and most successful sporting events. It now stages up to 40 daily races for over 1,000 boats and 8,500 competitors and is the largest sailing regatta of its kind in the world. As well as sailing activities, the week includes a large number of onshore events, held at the private yacht clubs, in marquees on the marinas, in the local pubs and restaurants, and including live music, food and drink. Around 100,000 visitors are attracted to Cowes by the unique festival atmosphere and the famous fireworks on the final Friday, launched from barges in the Solent.

Located across the road from the St Martins

Apartments. Freshwater Bay golf course is one of the most spectacular courses in the UK. Set on the downlands overlooking the English Channel, this seaside links course is 5725 yards long, par 68 which provides a challenge for golfers of all abilities.

Visitors are most welcome and they provide very reasonable rates.