WWFY Community Partner Spotlight: The Sandbar at Compo Beach

At the Westport Weston Family YMCA, community is at the heart of everything we do. Each year, the Point to Point Charity Swim brings people together in support of our mission to strengthen community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. This year, we are proud to recognize The Sandbar at Compo Beach as one of our community partners. Located right along the shoreline where the swim takes place, The Sandbar is a beachside dining spot rooted in hospitality, connection, and care for the Westport community.

We recently caught up with owner Nikki Glekas to learn more about the inspiration behind The Sandbar, what she loves about the Westport community, and why supporting the YMCA’s Point to Point Charity Swim was an easy decision.

What inspired you to open The Sandbar at Compo Beach?

Our first restaurant was a Greek restaurant in Stamford, and our Greek heritage has always been a big part of our brand. When we moved to Westport, I kept saying there was a missed opportunity to create a true vacation-style dining experience at Compo Beach. When the Town opened the bid for the concession, I couldn’t wait to submit a proposal. The Sandbar was created to give both residents and visitors a place where they can relax, enjoy fresh food, and feel like they’re on vacation without ever leaving Westport.

What do you love most about Westport and the Compo Beach community?

What I love most is how supportive the Westport community is.

As a business owner in Westport, are there any other local businesses you’d encourage our members to check out?

There are so many wonderful local businesses in Westport. I’m constantly inspired by the number of entrepreneurs who have built amazing businesses here. I always encourage people to shop local, support small businesses, and explore everything our town has to offer.

Why was it important for The Sandbar to support the YMCA’s Point to Point Charity Swim?

Giving back to the community has always been important to us. The people who support local businesses are the same people who make events like the YMCA’s Point to Point Charity Swim possible. Since the swim takes place right in front of The Sandbar, it was a natural fit for us to get involved and support such a meaningful community event.

What’s the must-try menu item at The Sandbar this summer?

Our signature menu items are our authentic Gyro and Chicken Souvlaki, both served with our homemade tzatziki sauce. Personally, my favorite is the Summer Salad—it’s fresh, flavorful, and the perfect meal to enjoy by the beach on a warm summer day.

We are grateful to Nikki Glekas and The Sandbar for supporting the 47th Annual Point to Point Charity Swim and helping make this meaningful community tradition possible. Partnerships like this reflect the very best of our Y community — neighbors supporting neighbors, local businesses giving back, and people coming together for a greater purpose.

Thank you to The Sandbar for standing with the Y and helping us continue to build a stronger, healthier, and more connected community.

About Westport Weston Family YMCA

The Westport Weston Family YMCA is a cause‑driven nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. With more than 100 years of service, the Y brings people together from all walks of life to build a ‘better us’.