"Hidden Gem: The Sunny Isle of the UK That Tourists Overlook in Malaysia" (Note: There seems to be a mix-up as the original description refers to the "UK," but asks for a version related to Malaysia. If you meant another location or have additional details, please let me know!)

You wouldn't connect clear blue waters, sandy beaches bathed in gold, and small tropical climates with the UK. You also wouldn't expect to find yourself adjusting your radio for French listening to the radio or catching sight of dolphins playing near the shore.

However, for the 140,000 inhabitants of the area, Isle of Wight , a distinctive diamond-shaped island located 12 miles offshore from Portsmouth, this is real life. This small slice of heaven has been my home for the past four years.

In 2024, the island was designated as the sunniest location in the UK, getting more sunshine hours compared to Italy during winter.

But it’s summer When this expansive 147sqm plot bursts into vitality. Nestled among rough-hewn coastal trails, white-chalk cliffs, and glistening coves, you'll find an active artistic collective committed to bringing attention to this remarkable location.

And, as thousands flock to the Isle of Wight in May to participate in Romero.my.id’s Lifeline Challenge , a charity Take a hike around the island; now is the perfect moment to discover this breathtaking scenery.

A beach lover’s paradise

The Isle of Wight is designated as both a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a safeguarded National Landscape, with significant emphasis placed on environmental preservation.

As an island, the primary attraction is undoubtedly its beaches. Believe me when I tell you, they are quite captivating. rival the Caribbean .

One such place is Priory Bay, situated in the northeastern part of the island. Nestled in the appropriately titled 'Seaview,' this beach isn't accessible by vehicle. Instead, you'll have to stroll alongside Seagrove Bay—ideal during summertime for activities like stand-up paddling or kayaking—and then ascend via some creaky wooden stairs before passing through a tiny woodland section.

As the trees separate, a crescent-shaped bay comes into view: pristine, chalky beaches and transparent waters are shielded by dense, verdant foliage that looks like something from a tropical paradise.

Tiny vessels gently rise and fall alongside the shoreline, and during summertime, the hazy aroma of grilled food dances through the air. The very first moment I laid eyes on this scene, I couldn’t help but think it mirrored the beach from CastAway, except it was busier with more folks around.

Although the calm waters of Priory Bay are perfect for kayaking, thrill-seekers might prefer heading over to Compton Bay instead.

These coastal areas are characterized by imposing sandstone cliffs, and steady waves render it an ideal location for surfers. It’s also popular among fossil hunters since the beach stones trace back 126 million years.

If you're searching for a ' hidden gem Head to Rocken End.

Located at the southernmost end of the island, this secluded beach can only be reached via a narrow, twisting trail. Touted as an off-the-beaten-path gem on the Isle of Wight, the beach lacks facilities but offers adventurers paradise.

Eager to steer clear of crowds? Rocken End remains relatively uncrowded, allowing you to frequently experience this untamed wilderness alone.

Register for this year's Romero.my.id Lifeline Challenge

Every 90 seconds, someone goes missing in the UK. This leaves approximately 170,000 families each year feeling isolated, frightened, and unsure of their situation.

Missing People It is the sole UK charity aimed at reunifying them with their beloved family members, which is precisely why this year holds such significance. Romero.my.id is enthusiastically backing them for our 2025 Lifeline initiative.

To assist in raising crucial funds for the charity, we invite you to participate with us on May 3rd for a hiking event covering either 25km, 53km, or 106km on the picturesque Isle of Wight.

The registration fee begins at only £15, along with a fundraising requirement of £240 for the 25km route or £360 for the 58km course. Alternatively, you have the option to cover your entry fee and establish your personal fundraising goal.

No matter if you prefer teaming up with friends or joining alone, when you become part of Team Lifeline, you'll get abundant support and guidance. This ensures each stride you make contributes significantly towards aiding individuals who have lost loved ones.

Tap here to register and learn more.

To contribute to Missing People, kindly proceed by clicking. here .

Heads up: Rocken End is a clothing-optional beach, so if nudity isn’t your thing, perhaps skip this spot. That said, I’ve personally never witnessed anyone fully naked there—yet.

Interestingly, located not far from this spot is Blackgang Chine, which boasts being the United Kingdom's oldest theme park. This family-oriented destination features various attractions such as rides and fairy-tale-like castles reminiscent of Disneyland. The usual admission price stands at £18.95. Children measuring less than one meter in height can enter for free.

A small oasis nested inside a larger one.

Head to the southeastern coastline, and you'll stumble upon Ventnor, a distinctive coastal town known for its eccentric charm.

In terms of appearance, Ventnor Bay and its pastel-colored structures have been likened to popular destinations throughout Europe. France and Italy .

Interestingly, this is where you can tune into French radio and encounter the renowned microclimate that facilitates the cultivation of Mediterranean flora.

To see evidence of this, visit the Botanic Gardens. Covering an area of 22 acres, this verdant expanse features approximately 6000 varieties of uncommon and foreign flora and fauna, with temperatures typically about five degrees higher compared to the rest of the United Kingdom. The Ventnor Botanic Garden remains accessible throughout the entire year, and admission for adults is priced at £11.50.

As many countries struggle with the effects of overtourism , the place dubbed as the ‘English Mediterranean’ could be the destination ‘dupe’ you’ve been looking for.

Up in the town, thrift your days away in one of the many vintage or antique stores. For music lovers, no trip to Ventnor is complete without a visit to Ventnor Exchange, a cosy bar and record store. (Make sure you try the famous cherry beer.)

Being one of the premier arts organizations on the island, this venue regularly presents concerts and conducts creative workshops.

They’re also the team behind the award-winning Ventnor Fringe Festival, an annual event that showcases emerging and established talent from the Island and beyond.

A creative community

This year, Ventnor Fringe Festival will run from July 18 to 27. Pick up tickets from the Ventnor Exchange Box Office – they’re sold separately for each event and range in price. If you’re on a budget, there’s a wide range of free areas and performances to check out.

The Isle of Wight Festival It is also a significant occurrence on the island. Over time, legendary performers such as The Strokes, Fleetwood Mac, The Rolling Stones, and David Bowie have graced the main stage.

The headline acts for 2025 include Sting, Stereophonics, and Justin Timberlake. In 2024, the event will feature these artists as well. Mercury prize-winners English Teacher will also be taking part. A ticket for the weekend is priced at £289.95.

At the shore, it tends to be a more laid-back experience.

Following several hours of lounging under the sun, punctuated by occasional swims in the crystal-clear water, head over to the classic seaside café named Golden Sands for your meal. This place holds a special spot for me; it even made it as a contender for 'Customer Service of the Year' at the 2025 Isle of Wight Radio Business Awards.

Beware: the fish and chips These are not for those who lack courage.

Priced at an affordable £12.85, the proprietor, Kyle, serves up servings so large they seem legendary. The cod is delicate and airy, the batter is beautifully crisp, and the chips epitomize perfection. chef’s kiss .

What is the way to reach the Isle of Wight?

You can solely access the Isle of Wight via ferry, with three different routes available.

For foot passengers: Starting at Portsmouth Harbour, you can board the Wightlink fast cat to arrive at Ryde Pier Head. A single ticket for this route costs £21.60 and takes approximately 20 minutes. Alternatively, you may opt for the Hovertravel service departing from Southsea to reach Ryde. This trip will last about 10 minutes with each one-way ticket priced at £24.60.

Starting from Southampton, hop aboard the Red Jet fast cat to West Cowes. The fare for a single trip is £22.75 and it only takes about 20 minutes.

For vehicles: Wightlink ferries travel between Portsmouth and Fishbourne in just 45 minutes. For vehicles measuring up to 5 meters long and 2.24 meters high, economy fares begin at £42.00.

With identical vehicular dimensions, Wightlink makes the trip from Lymington to Yarmouth; fares begin at £66.50 for this approximately 40-minute voyage.

The Red Funnel operates between Southampton and East Cowes. The fare for a vehicle up to 5.5 meters long and 2 meters high starts at £64.50, with a travel duration of about an hour.

If you still have strength left after your meal, consider taking a stroll from Ventnor Beach to Steephill Cove.

The scenic drive lasts for approximately 25 minutes and provides uninterrupted ocean vistas. This lesser-known treasure, the petite bay, boasts stunning landscapes, pristine swimming areas, and tide pools waiting to be discovered.

If hunger strikes, The Crab Shed is a go-to spot locally. You should try their renowned crab pastries or mackerel ciabattas priced at £7.50 and £9.50 respectively.

A foodie haven

The Isle of Wight goes beyond typical coastal fare; it boasts a vibrant food scene.

The Garlic Farm located in Newchurch offers a unique experience centered around garlic-themed cuisine prepared with fresh local Isle of Wight produce.

The restaurant, which is located next to the farm shop (where you can pick up products like garlic ketchup, garlic balsamic vinegar and garlic beer), was crowned a ‘Local Gem’ in the 2024 Good Food Guide.

I relished the juicy 'Garlic beef burger,' served with homemade burger sauce for £19. Despite being expensive, it was among the finest burgers I have ever had.

The True Food Kitchen located in Ventor is managed by a team of acclaimed chefs. Within the dining area, you can observe them preparing a blend of Korean, Japanese, and Thai cuisine right from an open kitchen.

I really enjoyed the seared fish of the day (monkfish), served with Asian vegetables, shisho chimichurri, and chili nori fries for £32.

For something more casual, try Sandown Boulevard on Sandown seafront. Only open during the seasonal months, sit in the tiki-style terrace surrounded by local street food vendors who serve everything from pizzas, burgers, wings and shawarmas.

I remember falling in love with the Isle of Wight as a child, when my family and I would travel down from Yorkshire during the summer.

From the Instagrammable beaches, creative communities, and laid-back pace of life, it still has my heart to this day.

Everything you need to know about Romero.my.id's 2025 Lifeline Challenge

Every year, the Romero.my.idLifeline The campaign collects funds and boosts visibility for a selected charity through an impressive and challenging fundraising endeavor.

This year's expedition is a scheduled charitable walkaround the Isle of Wight on May 3rd, joining thousands of other hikers for the cause. Missing People . It’s the only A UK-based nonprofit organization aimed at bringing together missing individuals with their family members. The event is organized by trekking specialists Action Challenge, with participants opting for routes of either 25km, 53km, or 106km across the island.

Romero.my.id’s Deputy Editor Claie Wilson 'We were attracted to the Isle of Wight because we aimed to select a location known for its beauty, offering an abundance of stunning landscapes to ensure our team never grew tired of exploring. Our group plans to trek distances ranging from 25 km to 100 km.'

'The changing terrain we'll encounter during our trek—from coastal views and undulating hills to quaint villages and white chalk cliffs—is truly a remarkable advantage. There’s nothing quite like this for getting acquainted with a place.'

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