Sandown: A Seaside Gem on the Isle of Wight
Nestled on the southeastern coast of the Isle of Wight, Sandown is a classic British seaside resort known for its golden beaches, charming promenade, and relaxed atmosphere. With its traditional appeal and natural beauty, Sandown has been a favorite holiday destination for generations.
At the heart of Sandown is its award-winning beach, stretching for miles with soft sand and gently sloping waters that make it ideal for families. Whether you’re sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a stroll along the esplanade, the beach offers a peaceful setting with stunning views across Sandown Bay. The pier adds a nostalgic touch, offering amusements and arcades, making it a fun spot for all ages.
Beyond the beach, Sandown is rich in natural and historical attractions. The town is home to the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, where rescued exotic animals, including lions and lemurs, find a safe and caring environment. Just a short walk away is Dinosaur Isle, a fascinating museum showcasing the island’s prehistoric past, including real dinosaur fossils found on the nearby cliffs.
Nature lovers can explore the nearby Sandown Levels and Culver Down, offering scenic walks and excellent birdwatching opportunities. The area’s chalk cliffs and green hills create a dramatic backdrop for photos and exploration.
Sandown also boasts a range of traditional cafes, pubs, and ice cream shops along the seafront. With easy transport links from the rest of the island and a laid-back, family-friendly vibe, it’s no wonder visitors return year after year.
Whether you're after a nostalgic seaside escape, a nature-filled adventure, or simply a quiet place to unwind, Sandown offers a delightful slice of the Isle of Wight’s charm and coastal beauty.
Sandown Bay has the longest sweep of uninterrupted sandy beach on the Isle of Wight, and two large and popular resorts - Sandown and Shanklin - have been built up along it, with a third, Lake, which used to be a small hamlet between them, now growing in size.
Sandown's beach comprises golden sand and is very safe for children. At the Eastern end of the Esplanade, a pumping station has provided new public toilets with showers and a performance area makes an ideal venue for band concerts, outdoor theatre, and other entertainment.
The national lottery-supported dinosaur museum has been built on a site between the former canoe lake and Brown's Golf Course. The pterosaur shaped building opened in August 2001.
The former Sandown Pier Pavilion is now transformed into a multi-use, all year round entertainment complex featuring an amazing themed adventure golf area known as The Lost World. In the centre of the tiered golf area is the SupaBowl with its four lanes of ten pin bowling, while upstairs is a children's adventure play area called Magic Island.
Sandown's High Street contains many small, unique shops, plus Co-op supermarket and Sainsburys Local.
Sandown - The Entertainment Hub
Best For: Families with children, entertainment seekers, traditional holidays
Pros:
Large sandy beach with Blue Flag status
Isle of Wight Zoo and Dinosaur Isle
Traditional seaside entertainment
Good range of accommodation
Family-friendly attractions
Sandown Bay and pier
Regular events and festivals
Cons:
Can be very busy in summer
Some areas appear dated
Limited upmarket dining options
Parking challenges in peak season
