East Cowes is home to the magnificent Norris Castle, which can be seen from the Solent standing on the northeast point of the town. Designed by James Wyatt, it has a galleted facade with crenelations. Visit the famous Osborne House, the former summer residence of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Hire a car or a bike and from your self catering East Cowes, drive down to Robin Hill Adventure Park, which is a complete day out for all the family. From beautiful trails, well manicured gardens to thrilling roller coaster rides ,water slides and games, the park has something special for visitors of all ages. A worth exploring place is the picturesque Exbury Gardens, which reflects the changing moods of nature. Created by Lionel de Rothschild in the 1920s, the gardens are a stunning vision of his inspiration, offering 200 acres of breathtaking natural beauty and horticultural variety. Here you can see an incredible array of rare and venerable species of ornamental plants including rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias. Do not miss on the spectacular ride in the small steam engine that chugs over rambling bridges, through a deep tunnel, across a placid pond in the Summer Lake Garden; along the top of the rock Garden and across a viaduct to 'Exbury North' in the America Garde. Exbury Garden also features a plant center, a small restaurant, a gift shop and also conducts guided tours on request. If you are looking for some water fun then East Cowes boast of an immaculate sandy beach where you can indulge in swimming, jet skiing, scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, and wind surfing. Take an afternoon siesta at one of the beach shacks dotting the shore and savor some succulent sea delicacies along with a local drink. If you are one of those who cannot resist golf on a holiday, then take a short drive to the surrounding towns of Cowes and Yarmouth where you can satisfy your golf passion at the excellent golf courses equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.

East Cowes has several quality, fast food joints, cafeterias and restaurants where you can sample a wide variety of food, from regional specialties to Mexican, Italian, Chinese, Caribbean, American fare and much more. There are two small supermarkets in the town which are open seven days a week. Soothe your parched throats to exotic wines and champagnes at the local pubs or bars, which also organize live music performances for vacationers on select days. If shopping interests you then browse through the lovely shops, which are just a stone's throw away from East Cowes house rentals and holiday homes. For some serious shopping, you can also visit the nearby town of Newport that boasts of a busy market dotted with swanky shopping malls, branded stores, galleries, retail outlets etc.