Sandown

Sandown Bay has the longest sweep of uninterrupted sandy beach on the Island, 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 new 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 recently 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 Pier Pavilion is now transformed into a multi-use, all year round entertainment complex comprising an amazing themed adventure golf area known as The Lost World. In the centre of the tiered golf area is the Supa Bowl with its four lanes of ten pin bowling, while upstairs is children's adventure play area called Magic Island.

Sandown's High Street contains many small, unique shops, plus supermarket, Woolworths and post office.

For the younger visitors, Colonel Bogeys Nightclub is a must.

For those who enjoy walking, try going up Culver Cliff to the Monument and see some spectacular views, or take a leisurely stroll along the revetment or along the cliff path from Sandown to Shanklin.

Sandown Bay - looking towards Bembridge

Sandown Bay - looking towards Shanklin

The Lymington to Yarmouth ferry