Bembridge Lifeboat Station

Bembridge local safety knowledge

Bembridge is north-east facing, with a sea wall promenade and a short sandy belt above the rocky pools and ledges to low-water mark. The beach is very popular and has private beach huts.

• The clay cliffs in the area are treacherous, especially at Nodes Point at St Helens and the cliffs from Whitecliff Bay to Forelands.
• There were 12 rescues during 2023–24 that involved walkers becoming stuck up to their waist in very soft mud after deviating from the designated footpaths.
• Don’t try to walk under the chalk cliffs from Whitecliff Bay to Red Cliff (Yaverland). Do not try to climb the chalk cliffs, or any cliff.

Emergency equipment

• There is an emergency phone and defibrillator (AED) on the wall adjacent to the Bembridge RNLI Shop entrance at Lane End.
• Life rings are found from Forelands to Silver Sands Beach, mostly where footpaths come to the coast.
• There is an emergency phone in Whitecliff Bay.

On the beach

• The tide runs fast on both sides of the lifeboat pier on either side of high tide.
• During low tides, be aware of the incoming tides so that you don't get cut off.
• The ledges and steps can be slippery.
• There are big drops from the promenade walls at both Lane End and Forelands.
• Always read and follow the safety signs and identify where any public rescue equipment is located.

In the water

• Offshore winds can blow you or an inflatable toy out to sea. Don’t use them in offshore winds.
• Keep clear of man made structures like piers or groynes.
• Keep clear of other water users – swimmers and powerboats don’t mix.
• Never swim alone or beyond your depth – even calm water can be dangerous.
• If you do get caught in a rip current, don’t fight against it. If possible, swim out of it by moving parallel to the shore.

For more advice on how to stay safe by the water, visit the safety page.