Beach Cafe's with a View

Whether you're starting the day with a locally roasted coffee, enjoying a long lunch by the water, or catching golden hour with a chilled glass of wine, few things rival a beach café with a view. The Isle of Wight, with its 57 miles of coastline, offers some of the most picturesque café settings in the UK, each with its own unique character, fresh local produce, and uninterrupted sea views.

Here’s our guide to some of our favourite spots, where the view is as memorable as the menu.

The Beach Hut – Bembridge

Tucked on the edge of Forelands Beach in Bembridge, The Beach Hut is a local favourite that balances rustic charm with spectacular surroundings. Perched right on the water, this tiny café offers panoramic views of the Solent, with Bembridge Ledge rock pools just steps away. On a sunny day, it's not unusual to see paddleboarders gliding by or children exploring the tide pools.

Must try: Homemade crab sandwiches, and their famous hot chocolate on a cooler day.
Good for: Dog walkers, rock poolers, and early risers chasing sunrise.

The Hut – Colwell Bay

If you’re looking to combine coastal dining with breathtaking sunsets, The Hut in Colwell Bay is hard to beat. This restaurant offers a laid-back, beach-club atmosphere with Instagram-worthy views across the western Solent to Hurst Castle.

Arrive by boat, beach, or foot. In the summer months, it's a lively spot buzzing with laughter, music, and corks popping.

Must try: Freshly grilled lobster or seafood linguine with a chilled rosé.
Good for: Long lunches, stylish evenings, and celebrating summer.

The Crab Shed – Steephill Cove

Accessible only by foot, Steephill Cove feels like a hidden paradise. This tiny, car-free hamlet near Ventnor boasts a scattering of beach huts, lobster pots, and the utterly charming Crab Shed, a small shack offering local seafood at its finest.
Dine al fresco just steps from the tide, watching fishing boats bob on the surf and listening to the waves lap at the shore. It’s unspoiled, laid-back, and truly one-of-a-kind.

Must try: Steamed local crab with lemon and herbs, served with crusty bread.
Good for: Romantic getaways, hidden-gem hunters, and seafood fans.

Fins Beach Café - Sandown

Tucked away on the eastern curve of Sandown Bay, Fins Beach Café is the definition of a hidden gem. With outdoor seating right on the esplanade and the shimmering sea just metres away, Fins is a local favourite for everything from sunny brunches to sunset cocktails. Expect a chilled-out, surfer-inspired vibe with a focus on fresh, healthy food. The café also champions local produce and sustainability - plus, dogs are welcome, so it’s a popular stop for walkers.

Must Try: The Island crab cakes, homemade cakes, and a cool fruit smoothie with a sea breeze.
Good for: Laid back lunches and girly brunches.

The Dell Café - Ryde

Few spots on the Isle offer views as sweeping and serene as those from The Dell Café. Overlooking the wide sands of Appley Beach, this stylish café has become an institution for locals and visitors alike. Watch ferries glide across the Solent while enjoying a hearty breakfast or a relaxed lunch. The menu is modern, flavourful, and caters well to vegan and vegetarian guests.

Must try: Flatbread wraps, daily fish specials, and fresh salads, all served with a backdrop of sea, sky, and sunshine.
Good for: Lazy brunches, family lunches, or post-swim coffees with a view of Appley Tower.