Derbyhaven Beach

Derbyhaven Beach lies on the south-eastern tip of the Isle of Man and forms a crescent around the shallow, east-facing bay.  The bay is protected by a breakwater and the waters here are highly favoured by windsurfers, as well as being used for scuba diving.

The beach is composed mainly of shingle and is backed by a sea wall and the whitewashed buildings of the small village.  Beyond the village the beach is backed by a small, grassy verge.

Castletown Golf Links is adjacent to the beach, and beyond that, a narrow causeway leads over to St Michael’s Island, known locally as Fort Island, because of the ruins of a 17th century fort found here.  There are also the ruins of a 12th century Celtic-Norse chapel on the island.  Both sets of ruins are closed to the public, but there are a couple of walking paths on the island which offer scenic views.

This part of the coastline is a good place to come wildlife spotting.  St Michael’s Island is a bird sanctuary, and dolphins and porpoises can occasionally be seen in the waters around the bay.