Portsmouth’s waterfront is set for an unmissable summer as Gunwharf Quays transforms into 'Castaway Cove', bringing a vibrant, month-long celebration of free live entertainment, refreshing drinks, and delicious street food to the city. Running until August 31, the pop-up offers locals and visitors a relaxed, tropical-inspired waterside spot to soak up the sun, with live performances and family-friendly activities taking place almost every day.
Nautical Tiki Bar and South Coast Flavours
At the heart of the event is a brand-new open-air Nautical Tiki bar serving tropical cocktails, regional beers, and South Coast flavours under shaded pergolas. The bar, inspired by Polynesian beach clubs, blends tropical plants with shaded seating, creating an inviting atmosphere. A changing menu showcases fresh South Coast flavours, including seafood dishes and refreshing non-alcoholic options.
Free Entertainment Programme
From acoustic music sessions and saxophone sets to disco yoga, salsa dancing, and circus workshops for the kids, the schedule is packed with free events. Live acoustic performances feature artists including Jack Creedy, The Wednesdays, and Portsmouth local Ella Roche, alongside saxophone performances from Vadym Sax and Freddy Saxo. The programme also includes salsa dancing sessions with Salsa Solent, family-friendly circus workshops and hula-hooping with Circa Hoops and Emily Cunningham, disco yoga with Yoga by Emily, and bubble shows for children.
Seafood Festival Grand Finale
The celebrations culminate over the August Bank Holiday weekend from August 2–31, with the return of the Seafood Festival, celebrating the best of the South Coast's coastal flavours and produce. Guests can expect fresh seafood, live music, and entertainment over the weekend, with participating vendors including Hampshire-based restaurant The Gamekeepers, serving crab bruschetta, as well as Brighton’s iconic champagne and oyster bar Riddle & Finns. The Nordic Smokery will cook their wood-smoked seafood on an open fire, whilst The Fish Truck and Spanish run family-business Paella Garcia will also be attending.
Quotes from Organisers
Yvonne Clay, centre director at Gunwharf Quays, said: "Summer is always a fantastic time to visit Gunwharf Quays, and we're looking forward to welcoming guests to enjoy everything Castaway Cove has to offer. Whether you're stopping by for a drink after a day of outlet shopping, enjoying the free live entertainment, or visiting over the Bank Holiday for the return of the Seafood Festival, there's something happening for guests of all ages this August. We're proud to continue bringing free events and experiences to Portsmouth's waterfront, giving our guests even more reasons to spend time in the city in its centenary year."
Nick Zuppar, entertainment and events producer for Castaway Cove, added: "We've created a unique programme that offers something different every time people visit. From live music and DJs to circus workshops, salsa sessions and our Nautical Tiki Bar, we wanted to create a relaxed atmosphere where guests can come together, enjoy the waterfront, and make the most of summer."
Event Details
Castaway Cove will be in The Plaza at Gunwharf Quays until August 31. All entertainment will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information and the full entertainment programme, visit the Gunwharf Quays website.
