It faces southwest towards the English Channel, its shoreline is 5 miles (8 km) in length and is gently curving.

Like much of the southwestern coast of the island, Brighstone Bay is affected by ongoing coastal erosion.

[1] Off the shore, Brighstone Ledge is one of several underwater rock formations along this stretch, known as the Back of the Wight.

This area has been the site of numerous shipwrecks over the centuries, as storms have driven vessels onto the hidden rocks.

[2] The seabed consists of a mix of mud, sand, and shells, while the beach itself is predominantly shingle.