Ref query re beaches on Isle of Wight. I went to Sandown about three years ago and went into Shanklin for a nice lunch at the Crab Inn, then down to the beach - very sandy - and had a lovely swim.
Last weekend went to Bembridge and took taxi to Crab & Lobster which has superb food. then walked all along the beach (down cliff) to get back to the airfield. Parts of beach are sandy but there are some pebbles too. Nearly deserted although weather was warm. Worth taking bucket and spades as i wished I'd had mine....
Hope you have fun!!