The Driftwood Beach Bar at Sandown has become one of the most popular summer haunts on the Island in recent years.
While owner Sean Ware was travelling around the Caribbean in his younger days he spotted beach bars more or less everywhere, and liked the concept. However, he appreciated that while many of them were not particularly busy they were always supported by huge hotel chains. Then during one six-week break to Spain rather than the Caribbean, he noticed many smaller beach bars scattered along beaches, and that gave him the incentive to begin his own venture on the Island.
Even so Sean, who was born in London and came here as a five-year-old, accepted it was something of a risk. There are not as many hotels in Sandown as along Spanish beaches, and the weather is always going to be an important factor, even though it does have inside seating for around 70 customers. And the big plus is that that the Driftwood Beach Bar on Culver Parade is pretty much the only one of its type in the area.
Since its opening in 2004 it has continued to grow in popularity with locals and tourists alike, with Sunday sessions proving particularly busy. There is music on Saturday and Sunday at present, which changes to Sunday only in peak season. Beers from around the world are among a large selection on sale at the Driftwood, which also serves fresh coffee, deluxe hot chocolate, soft drinks or speciality cocktails. There is also a large variety of food available at the Driftwood, including breakfasts from 7.00am to 11.00am, and a new menu for the 2011 season has just been launched specialising in sizzling Isle of Wight steaks & succulent seafood.
The Driftwood opened in early April, and is already attracting huge interest, as it has in previous years. The Driftwood Shop is also a big attraction, selling a variety of clothing from unisex branded hoodies to vests and long-sleeved Tee shirts as well as kids’ stuff and gifts.
The summer is coming, the sun is going to shine, and there is no better place to see and be seen than at the Driftwood Beach Bar. Life’s a beach….with a bar!
Telephone: 01983 404004