There’s something magical about spending a full day exploring our beautiful Isle of Wight, especially when you know where the locals go. We’ve put together the perfect day out that takes you from sunrise to sunset, showcasing three amazing local businesses that truly capture the heart of our island community.
Whether you’re a long-time resident looking to rediscover your home or planning a special day out with family and friends, this carefully curated itinerary will help you experience the very best of what the Isle of Wight has to offer, all while supporting the wonderful local businesses that make our community so special.
Start Your Day Right
The Piano Café – Freshwater Bay
Housed in a charming old church hall just minutes from Freshwater Bay, The Piano Café is the kind of place locals whisper about when they want to impress visiting friends. It’s full of character: light streaming through tall windows, shelves stacked with local produce, and, yes, a grand piano at the heart of the space.
What makes it special: The Piano Café champions local suppliers, so everything feels fresh and connected to the island. Locals love the relaxed vibe – it’s just as perfect for a quick coffee as it is for a long, lazy breakfast.
What to try: Their smoked salmon bagels are a big hit, as are the hearty full English breakfasts that set you up for a busy day ahead. If you’re more of a coffee-and-cake person, the homemade bakes are worth a visit on their own.
Why it’s perfect: It feels like the island waking up around you – easy, welcoming, and full of energy for the day ahead.
Local tip: Seating fills up quickly on sunny weekends. Aim to arrive early, around 9am, to snag a table by the window and soak up the morning light.
Discover Something Special
Wildheart Animal Sanctuary – Sandown
If you’ve never been to the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, you’re in for a treat. Tucked just a few steps away from Sandown Beach, this isn’t your typical ‘zoo day out’. Every animal here has a story; many have been rescued from circuses or the exotic pet trade, and you can feel the care and compassion that goes into looking after them.
It’s home to some truly incredible residents: big cats, bears, lemurs, monkeys, and even some reptiles who might just give you a little side-eye as you walk past. The best part? Your entry ticket helps fund their rescue work and global conservation projects, so you leave knowing your visit actually made a difference.
Best times to visit: Late morning is perfect as the animals tend to be more active before their afternoon nap, and the keeper talks often happen around this time.
What to expect: A relaxed wander through leafy pathways, plenty of time to watch the animals do their thing, and friendly keepers happy to share little nuggets of information about their residents. The enclosures are thoughtfully designed, so you can get a good look without feeling like you’re intruding.
Why locals love it: It’s the kind of place you can go back to again and again. Locals often pop in just to see how their favourite animals are doing – it feels personal, like visiting old friends (the furry and not-so-furry kind).
Practical info: There’s parking on-site, and it’s easy to reach by bus. Most of the sanctuary is wheelchair-friendly, and there’s a café for a coffee stop and a gift shop that’s very good at tempting you with toy lemurs.
Local tip: If you can, time your visit for a big cat feeding talk; it’s one of those moments that stays with you.
Savour the Flavours
Salty’s Pizza – Yarmouth
By the time evening rolls around, there’s no better way to wind down than with a slice (or three) of Salty’s Pizza. Set just steps from Yarmouth Harbour, this independent spot has fast become a local favourite for its buzzing atmosphere and top-notch wood-fired pizzas.
What makes it special: It’s casual, welcoming, and always lively – perfect whether you’re winding down with family or starting your night out with friends. The team are passionate about good food and friendly service, which makes every visit feel like you’re among neighbours.
What to try: The menu changes with the seasons, but their classic margherita is one of the best on the island. Seafood lovers should keep an eye out for their specials, often topped with Isle of Wight crab or prawns. Pair it with a local beer or a cocktail, and you’ve got the perfect evening.
Why it’s perfect: There’s something about pizza by the sea that just feels right, unfussy, delicious, and full of good vibes.
Local tip: Book ahead if you’re planning to visit at peak times (Friday or Saturday evenings especially). Locals also recommend grabbing a table upstairs if you want a bit more space and a view over the harbour.
Making the Most of Your Perfect Day
To help you make the most of this itinerary, here are some practical tips from locals who know the island best:
Getting Around: Start in Freshwater Bay for breakfast, then cut across the island to Sandown for the sanctuary. From there, head west to Yarmouth for dinner. If you’re driving, allow 30–40 minutes between stops. Not driving? The island’s bus routes connect all three, and a day rover ticket is great value.
Timing: This itinerary is designed to be leisurely, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without rushing. Breakfast at 9am, the sanctuary around 11am, and dinner from 6pm makes for a perfectly paced day.
Weather Backup: The Piano Café and Salty’s Pizza are cosy no matter what the skies are doing, and Wildheart Sanctuary has indoor areas and sheltered spots, so the day works rain or shine.
Budget-Friendly: All three stops offer great value for money. Both The Piano Café and Salty’s Pizza have options under £10, and the sanctuary offers annual passes for locals who plan to visit regularly.
Community Connection: Each of these businesses is deeply rooted in the island community, so you’re not just enjoying a great day out; you’re supporting the people who make the Isle of Wight such a special place to live and visit.
Share Your Perfect Day
We’d love to see how your perfect day unfolds! Share your photos and experience using #WightbayPerfectDay and tag us @wightbay. The best posts will be featured in our community spotlight, and you might even inspire the next perfect day guide.
Have you discovered other local gems that deserve a spot in a future guide? We’re always looking for amazing Isle of Wight businesses to feature. Get in touch and let us know about your favourite local spots.
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