The Lazy Wave

2A Esplanade, Shanklin PO37 6BN, United Kingdom
+44 1983 863103
$$$ Cafe
(92 Reviews)
Price Range £1–10

Welcome to The Lazy Wave, a charming café perched at the end of the esplanade in Shanklin, where the picturesque beach views become a canvas for unforgettable culinary experiences. This delightful spot combines delicious treats with a relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for families and beachgoers alike.

As you step into The Lazy Wave, you'll be greeted by friendly staff who are eager to make your visit enjoyable. The café boasts an impressive selection of refreshing drinks and tantalizing snacks. One of the standout offerings is the freshly made donuts, adorned with indulgent toppings like biscoff and kinder bueno, which have earned rave reviews from satisfied customers. Each bite is a little piece of heaven, and the warmth of the freshly baked goods envelops you with a sense of comfort.

For those looking to sip something special, The Lazy Wave excels in its cocktail game, presenting a vibrant array of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. From fruity concoctions to creamy delights, there’s a drink for everyone. Enjoy a classic hot chocolate for a cozy vibe or dive into the fun with their slushies, available in an exciting variety of flavors and even infused with alcohol for the adults. Customers like Jon Thwaites have emphasized the café’s vast selection, ensuring that both kids and adults leave satisfied.

But it’s not just about the food and drinks; The Lazy Wave offers an idyllic setting to soak in the beauty of Shanklin. Picture yourself sipping a cocktail while gazing at the stunning cliffs of Culver, all from the outside seating that captures the sun all day long. The open-air ambiance invites you to linger a bit longer, and many patrons have shared how it's the perfect place to unwind and to enjoy the lively beach atmosphere. As Karen Thomas pointed out, you can easily take your delicious offerings to the beach for a leisurely stroll, making it ideal for a day out in the sun.

The café is also conveniently located near Shanklin Chine, a breathtaking natural gorge, making it a fabulous stop during your explorations. Cantilever yourself between relaxing on the beach and enjoying quality time at The Lazy Wave—a gem that truly encapsulates the spirit of seaside leisure.

From delectable ice creams that cool you down on a hot day to scrumptious doughnut sundaes that are a feast for the eyes and palate, The Lazy Wave is more than just a café; it's an experience that captivates. With multiple glowing reviews praising its delightful menu and stunning views, this charming spot is certainly a must-visit for anyone in the area.

Whether you're stopping by for a quick refreshment after a beach day or planning a special treat with family and friends, The Lazy Wave promises not only great food and drinks but also a lovely atmosphere that you’ll remember long after your visit. Come unwind, indulge, and enjoy the vibrant flavors and friendly service—your perfect day at the beach awaits!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Serves great coffee
Serves great dessert
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves coffee
Quick bite
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
No toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
Popular with tourists
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Has kids' menu
Pets
Dogs allowed
Openings Hours

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Wednesday

10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Thursday

10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Friday

10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Saturday

10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Sunday

10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

92 Reviews
Jon Thwaites

12 Sep 2025

What a Fab little spot, at the very end of esplanade. So much choice for adults and kids, more slushy flavours you could wish! We had some amazing fresh Doughnuts, biscoff on some and kinder bueno on the others. A must visit if you ask me!

Meeta channel

03 Sep 2025

Excellent cafe with lovely drinks hot/cold. Perfect view of beach. Open air. Friendly staff. Easy access. Had a hot choc.

Karen Thomas

04 Aug 2025

Beautiful location, yummy Fresh made Donuts and yummy cocktails. All while watching the beach and scenery. The while Cliffs of Culver are wonderful! Or take your yummies to the beach for a walk!

ian ball

31 Jul 2025

A great little spot on the beach. I sat with my daughter and ate some delicious donuts. Unfortunately I couldn't sample the cocktails, but they looked great! Friendly staff, which seems to be a running theme on the island. A definite place to stop and enjoy the view and coffee, donuts, and cocktails

Chantal Penrhyn

23 Jul 2025

Family friendly easy-going cafe/bar/eaterie right near the seafront and next to Shanklin Chine. Have walked past here so many times in the past, finally gave it a go on Friday afternoon. We had a rum & lemonade and a cider, nice music, friendly staff and lovely scenery. Next time we will try the doughnut sundae as they looked good!

Daniel Watkinson

13 Jul 2025

Incredible cocktails, delicious ice creams, sundaes, doughnuts and waffles. And a brucey bonus that they do slushies, with ir without alcohol. Gets the sun all day, and music pumping. What better place to be on the beach, than here. Staff are very friendly and best prices along that entire coast. Their logo on the ice cream Wafer was a brilliant touch.

Chris Gledhill

10 Jul 2025

Great little cafe at the northern end of Shanklin beach. It’s right on the seafront with outdoor seating overlooking the bay. They do slushies and milkshakes and coffees and ice cream and fresh donuts. Great place to hang out. When the tide is in the sea is right up to the edge of the cafe.

Richard Harrison

09 Jun 2025

A real gem on the seafront! Stopped here after visiting Shanklin Chine and going for a wander up the beach. Really friendly staff, good ice creams and just a genuinely lovely atmosphere. Great sea views obviously.

Join the The Lazy Wave Newsletter

Get the latest updates on seasonal pastries, special events, and local highlights directly in your inbox.