| Start swim from | Freshwater Bay |
| Coordinates | 50.669985,-1.510264 |
| Length of swim | 1000m out and back |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Time of year tried | August |
| Sea Temperature | 18 |
| Air Temperature | 19 |
| Tidal conditions | High tide in low tide out |
| Things to look out for | Underwater rocks which are easy to spot, currents around the boulders. Check the water first from the cliffs above prior to your swim. |
| Highlights | Private beach and cave, fun cross waves |
| Recommended trail | Needles Viewpoint and Tennyson Down Circular https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/england/isle-of-wight/needles-viewpoint-and-tennyson-down-circular-walk?sh=ll1mdy |
| Cost | Free |
| Closest Airport / Port | Isle of Wight Ferry |
| Accessibility details | TBC |
The Fun we had
This swim was the result of a ‘we wonder if…’ moment. Looking over the cliff edge on Afton Down we saw the private beach and an opportunity for adventure! After checking out the tides and weather, we packed a tow float with lunch, and set off from Freshwater Bay. The waters were wonderfully calm as we set off, but as we turned the corner and the beach came into view, we found ourselves in more exciting waters. The tall rocks funnel the water into a narrow space, which made us feel like we were on a treadmill for a few minutes. As we landed there was sense of achievement; our first self-planned swim was a success. Never mind that apparently it’s a relatively frequent route for locals!
We had timed our swim for just before high tide, for some extra help to get to the beach. This meant that the beach was rapidly disappearing, so we had a lovely lunch in the mouth of a cave, watching the water below as the tide turned. Once the beach reappeared and we were ready to return to the world, we found our way back to the water headed back to the bay.
How to do it
There is parking directly next to the beach, and an ex-bus stop, now unofficial changing hut by the edge of the beach.
We’d recommend entering the water at Firestone Bay from the Eastern side, to make a slightly shorter swim. Follow the cliffs around to the left and head towards the tall, stand alone rock. As you turn the corner, be mindful of the underwater rocks (the water is fairly clear), and be prepared to put in some effort to the swim as you approach the beach. The exit is fairly easy, and pebbly rather than sandy. If you don’t fancy (or can’t make) a 10 foot climb to the cave entrance, we’d recommend going well away from high tide, as the beach will entirely disappear. If you do, then make use of the natural hand holds, and enjoy the view!
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