Sandown is the sister resort to Shanklin. It sits in the centre of Sandown Bay with Shanklin to the south and Yaverland and Culver cliff to the north. The gently sloping sandy beaches are ideal for safe bathing. There will always be plenty of room on the beach as the sands run for miles around the bay.

A level walk along the base of the cliffs is a must. You can stop and take in views over a cream tea or pub lunch at one of the many refreshment providers en route. When you have finished your walk you could catch the bus back, or stroll along the exhilarating cliff top walk. If you feel more energetic, the walk to the top of Bembridge Down is very rewarding. From here, you can see across the Solent towards Portsmouth, Southsea and the South Downs. A handy pub allows you to refuel before your descent.

Sandown is one of the few towns that have retained its pier. There are amusements, fairground rides and facilities for anglers. The family can enjoy hours of entertainment, or simply sit and admire the views of the bay, Bembridge and St Boniface Downs. There are nightclubs, pubs, restaurants and cafes. The kids will have hours of fun on Brown’s pitch and putt, or visiting the zoo with its famous tiger sanctuary.

Sandown also has its own 18-hole golf course and small airport where you can take a pleasure flight to view the island from the air. On the seafront is a Dinosaur Museum, where you can at the prehistoric visitors who were once at home on the island.