![Sandown is a seaside resort town and civil parish[1] on the southeast coast of the Isle of Wight, England, neighbouring the town of Shanklin to the south. Sandown Bay is the name of the bay off the English Channel which both towns share, and it is notable for its long stretch of easily accessible golden sandy beach. It is the site of the lost Sandown Castle. Whilst undergoing construction, this was attacked by a French force which had fought its way over Culver Down from Whitecliff Bay, resulting in the French being repulsed. It was built too far into the sea and constantly suffered erosion, until now reduced to a pile of rocks. Later forts in the town include the Diamond Fort (named after its plan), built inshore to replace the castle and which fought off a minor attack from privateers (probably French) in 1788, and the present "Granite Fort", which is now the zoo. The sweeping esplanade from Devonia Steps to Yaverland and the bandstand were built during the First World War, for the first time stabilising the road to Bembridge. An extension to Brown's Golf Course (and former ice cream factory) was added in 1944 to disguise pumping apparatus for the Pipe Line Under the Ocean (PLUTO) pumping oil to the D-Day beaches, which still stands next to the large Art Deco Grand Hotel. Sandown Bay is often used as a sheltered anchorage, especially for ships requiring salvage which are periodically towed into the bay (such as the Tarpenbeck) and the wreck of a salvage tug can still be seen at low tide under Culver Cliff (the Harry Sharman) which had been assisting the stricken tanker Pacific Glory in the 1970s.](https://mediaim.expedia.com/destination/3/e2af151152f1ac6a551d3d794db8c04c.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=600&h=400&p=1&q=medium)
Friendly Sandown will entice you
Enjoy the art galleries and other features of Sandown. This welcoming city is known for its beaches, island views and golfing. Are you looking for specific amenities for your getaway? Many of our vacation rentals feature full kitchens and laundry facilities.
Activities and attractions in Sandown
Are you searching for top things to see and do in the city? Although it can be tempting to stay in your comfortable vacation rental, you'll want to experience everything that Sandown has to offer. Here are some of the top attractions to explore, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- Sandown Pier (0.2 mi / 0.3 km)
- Isle of Wight Zoo (0.7 mi / 1.2 km)
- Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary (3.7 mi / 5.9 km)
- Isle of Wight Owl and Falconry Centre (4.4 mi / 7 km)
- Clarence Pier (9.3 mi / 15 km)
- The Needles Landmark Attraction (18.1 mi / 29.1 km)
Exploring the beaches and other natural features in Sandown
Travelers enjoy Sandown for its island views and seaside. Whether you're an adventurous traveler or just want to take in the scenery, you'll be sure to find the perfect setting for your vacation in Sandown. Here are a few of the area's noteworthy features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- New Forest National Park (25 mi / 40.3 km)
- Sandown Beach (0.2 mi / 0.3 km)
- Yaverland Beach (1 mi / 1.7 km)
- Shanklin Beach (2 mi / 3.2 km)
- Shanklin Chine (2.3 mi / 3.7 km)
- Ventnor Beach (4.9 mi / 7.9 km)
Seasonal weather averages in Sandown
If warm-weather activities are high on your list, July, August, September and June are the hottest months to visit, when temperatures average 61°F.
How to get to and around Sandown
The nearest airport is in Southampton (SOU), located 22.4 mi (36 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you might consider flying into Bournemouth (BOH-Bournemouth Intl.), which is 30.9 mi (49.8 km) away.
If you prefer to travel by train, Sandown Station, Lake Station and Sandown Brading Station are the main stations in the city.