Gurnard

Although there's very little space to launch and that ominous Solent tidal current to deal with, the shingle beach at Gurnard towards the island's northern tip is a good freeride and raceboard windsurfing venue in a south-westerly wind. The more adventurous even blast across to the mainland and back! Just up the road, the world-famous British yachting capital of 'Cowes' is the sailing equivalent of Wimbledon or Wembley. It's hardly a classic windsurfing spot, but if you fancy mixing it with the 'big boys' there's an acceptable shingle launch from the north-facing seafront.