Shanklin has long been a location for family holidays, with a safe sandy beach and clear waters. The bay is sheltered from the prevailing wind by Dunnose Point, which is a stunning backdrop, with the tall cliffs of Luccombe and St. Boniface Downs beyond. Looking out to The English Channel across The Bay, views extend around to the White Cliffs of Culver and Bembridge Downs. By the beach there is pitch and putt, children’s amusements and car parking. A lift provides easy access to the cliff tops, where the views are even more spectacular.  The seafront is a real attraction for visitors to the town, with a wealth of eating establishments, 3 pubs and a small road train which provides a regular service through the summer months to the town centre and Old Village.

Shanklin is most famed for its good weather and the pretty Old Village, which is located on the south side of the town, towards Ventnor and Bonchurch. The village is extremely pretty and most tourists head to the area for the thatched cottages, quaint shops and old fashioned tea rooms, which not only offer cream teas, but sea food specialities and attractive surroundings. In the heart of The Old Village are several pubs which are attractive and provide good food and a great venue for a lively evening. Just past the entrance to The Crab Inn is the start of Shanklin Chine, a deep gorge carved out by a stream, which is a restful and picturesque place to spend the morning or afternoon. In the evening the waterfalls and woodland are illuminated, giving the gardens a totally different aspect and atmosphere, a must if you are visiting Shanklin.

The shopping in Shanklin is in 2 main streets. The High Street and Regent Street. Here you will find gifts for the family, and you will be able to find unusual items for your household or as a memento to remind you of your time on the Island.