Best cafés beside the seaside

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Sun, sea and a cracking crab sandwich – it’s hard to think of anything better for a UK holiday lunch. There’s nothing quite like hearing the waves lapping against the shore while enjoying a meal. Here are our pick of the UK’s best seaside cafés. If you know and love another, let us know on Twitter!

Porthminster Beach Café, St Ives, Cornwall

Local seafood, own-grown herbs and vegetables are given Mediterranean and Asian twists at this glam café. The views, particularly from the outdoor tables, are spectacular.

Sandside Café, Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire

This little spot on the waterfront at Runswick Bay on the North Yorkshire coast is THE spot for a crab sandwich. There aren’t many spots you can enjoy such a satisfying meal to the sound of waves lapping, all served by friendly staff in a gorgeous setting. Also available are jacket potatoes, toasties, chips and fish specials. We highly recommend saving room for a slice of the lemon drizzle cake however – it’s irresistible. Dogs welcome.

Crab House Café, Weymouth, Dorset

This quirky crab shack overlooking Chesil Beach is famous for its spanking-fresh seafood, including boiled crabs served up on wooden boards and Portland oysters from the café’s own oyster beds.

East Beach Café, Littlehampton, West Sussex

If you thought Littlehampton wasn’t cool, think again. Designed by Thomas Hetherwick, this iconic building is as modern a venue as you can get. The cooking includes classic British favourites like fish and chips, alongside seafood specials such as spicy prawn & ‘Nduja tagliatelle. Brunch is also served all day, if that’s more your thing.

NAMARA Marine Supplies & Seafood Café, Grimsay, Isle of North Uist

Fancy a bit of otter-spotting out of the window while you’re eating lunch? At this north Uist establishment, you can. The fresh scallop and black pudding in a bun is a local delicacy. And you can even pick up some waterproofs and marine supplies after lunch.

Know and love a beach café? Let us know on Twitter.