Sandown Beach

A traditional sandy bay found on the east coast of the Isle of Wight, Sandown Beach is one of the Island’s finest and most famous seaside locations.

A Marine Conservation Society Recommended Beach, Sandown has bathing water that is beautifully clean and perfect for a dip.

Things to do at Sandown Beach

Sandown Beach caters to all tastes. While it ticks all the boxes of a family-friendly seaside resort, it’s also a great place for water sports like surfing and paddleboarding.

Dotted along the esplanade, you’ll find a plethora of places to pick up a snack or meal, including fish and chip shops and, of course, ice cream parlours.

In the middle of the beach is one of the town’s most famous attractions – Sandown Pier. Inside, let the kids loose in the Magic Island play area or unleash your competitive side with crazy golf or 10 pin bowling.

As you’d expect from any seaside pier, you’ll also find a well-stocked amusement arcade on site and plenty of rides to keep the children entertained.

Only a moment’s walk from the beach, there are also some major Island attractions such as Dinosaur Isle, Sandham Gardens and the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary.

Dogs

From 1 October to 30 April, dogs are welcome.

However, during the peak summer months, from 1 May to 30 September, four-legged friends are not allowed on the beach.

Registered assistance dogs are allowed on the beach all year round.

Getting there and parking

It’s easy to visit Sandown Beach, even if you’re visiting the Island without a car.

Island Line trains run from the Wightlink FastCat port at Ryde Pier Head right into Sandown town. The beach itself is a round a 15 minute downhill walk from the station.

If you’re brining your car, the majority of parking spots are found to the west of the pier.