Cafés and beach shacks with a beach view

Whether you’re after a cup of coffee and a slice of cake or a light lunch with a beautiful sea view, you’ll be spoilt for choice at every corner of the Isle of Wight. Relax, unwind and take in the most spectacular views of the beach as you enjoy some of the Island’s finest local produce.

North Wight

Steeped in culture and history, the North Wight is famously home to the magnificent Osborne House. Whether you’ve spent the day exploring or want to find a relaxing spot to enjoy a cup of something delicious, the Osborne House Pavilion Beach Ice-Cream Parlour is one of the best locations to refuel in North Wight. The parlour is located right next to Osborne’s beach, giving you a wonderful view of the bay and beyond. Bear in mind that if you are planning a visit, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee to Osborne.

West Wight

Like the name suggests, The Gossips Café and Ice Cream Parlour in Yarmouth is the perfect place to enjoy a natter with friends. Renowned as Yarmouth’s only waterside café, it boasts an idyllic setting at the entrance to Yarmouth’s historic wooden pier overlooking the Solent and the mainland beyond. The wraparound picture windows provide stunning views of the pier and pebble beach, providing you with a warm welcome whatever the season.

If you’re after a hearty breakfast or hot lunch with a view, head to The Captain’s Cabin. Near the beach at the delightful Colwell Chine in Freshwater, you’ll find a selection of mouth-watering scones, delicious ice cream and fresh coffees, meaning you won’t be short on a tasty treat (or two). Once you’re nice and full, go for a slow stroll along the sea wall to Totland Bay, taking in the beautiful views along the way.

On a sunny day, take a gentle wander from Yarmouth to Fort Victoria Country Park and enjoy a well-earned pitstop at The Boathouse Café. Positioned on a shingle beach close to Fort Victoria, there are plenty of tables inside and out with a raised garden offering beautiful views over the Solent. Before you head off on the next stage of your stroll, enjoy a home-cooked lunch from the specials board ­– or why not try the famous fillet steak ciabatta?

South Wight

Be transported to a forgotten era at Lady Scarlett's Ventnor. Kitted out with vintage bric-a-brac and period music providing an authentic ambience, it’s one of the best vintage tearooms in the UK. Not only does the tea parlour offer freshly-prepared made-to-order meals, but it’s situated right by the beachside, providing you with the perfect backdrop as you enjoy a tasty treat.

Head one mile south of Ventnor, to the charming Steephill Cove and the Crab Shed. Accessible only by foot and situated along the coastal path, the shed is famous for its crab and mackerel pasties. There’s also a selection of fine wines on offer to complement your seafood. The Crab Shed operates on a first-come, first-served basis – all you need to do is turn up.

East Wight

Whatever you’re looking for, the East Wight has so many cafes and beach shacks with a beach view to discover. Fins Beach Café is one of the best places for brunch on the Island. With an enviable beachside location and a delicious menu featuring smoothie bowls, hearty breakfasts and vegetarian plates, it offers chilled summer vibes throughout the entire year.

If you’re exploring Shanklin, Salix Shanklin on Small Hope Beach offers a warm welcome. Enjoy freshly-cooked food and scrumptious Marshfields clotted cream ice cream as you watch the embrace the hustle and bustle of the Esplanade.

If you head to Sandown, you’ll come across Driftwood Beach Bar and Grill. With a full lunch, evening and cocktail menu, it’s the perfect beachside spot if you’re after a late-night meal with a beautiful view. The nearby Tradewinds Beach Café is another eclectic seaside venue situated mid-way between Sandown and Shanklin. Watch the locals surf as you enjoy a delicious coffee and tasty treat by the sea. Be sure to enjoy outdoor seating right on Sandown beach at The Sundial Café.

Harbour View Bembridge is another beachside gem serving breakfast, lunch, homemade cakes, Island-roasted coffee and teas, and as the name suggests, it has views of the gorgeous Bembridge Harbour. And if you’re after a family-friendly café with a bar and delicious stone baked pizza, then take a trip to Steve's Bar at Bembridge Harbour. The outdoor seating area is right next to the water’s edge, providing amazing views of Bembridge Harbour.

If you love seafood, you’ll love Baywatch on the beach at St Helens. With beautiful panoramic sea views and an enviable water’s edge location, you wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.

The Captains Table at Ryde offers some of the fry-ups on the Island. Even better – this classic seaside café benefits from relaxing sea views, adding to the chilled-out ambience.