Perched near Cape Zanpa lighthouse with uninterrupted views of the East China Sea, this casual seaside cafe is the ideal post-snorkeling refreshment stop. The menu features Okinawan soft-serve ice cream in purple sweet potato and Okinawa salt flavors, fresh shaved ice desserts (kakigori) with local fruits, cold Orion beer, and simple snack plates. The outdoor terrace seating with crashing waves below makes it one of Okinawa's most scenically located casual dining spots.
Perched near Cape Zanpa lighthouse with uninterrupted views over the East China Sea, Seaside Cafe Zanpa is a casual refreshment stop popular with visitors coming from snorkeling or diving trips along Yomitan's coastline. There is no chef-driven menu here; the focus is on simple, cooling treats matched to the setting — Okinawan soft-serve ice cream in purple sweet potato and Okinawa salt flavors, fresh kakigori shaved ice topped with local fruits, cold Orion beer, and light snack plates. The outdoor terrace seating, positioned with waves crashing below, makes this one of the more scenically located casual dining spots on the island, and the atmosphere is relaxed and unhurried rather than lively, suited to sitting and taking in the view rather than a full meal. There is no wine or cocktail programme; beer is the only alcoholic option alongside the ice cream and shaved ice offerings. Reservations are not required, as the cafe operates on a casual walk-in basis, and it is closed on Mondays. Because it sits directly on the post-snorkeling route near Cape Zanpa, the cafe works best as a mid-afternoon stop to cool down and refuel rather than a planned dinner destination.
Signature dishes
- Purple sweet potato soft serve
- Okinawan kakigori shaved ice
- Orion beer
- Salt ice cream
Good to know
- Reservations
- Not required
Location
Cape Zanpa area, Yomitan-son, Nakagami-gun, Okinawa 904-0301
26.4344, 127.6962 View on map
Highlights
- Uninterrupted East China Sea views near Cape Zanpa lighthouse
- Okinawan soft-serve ice cream in purple sweet potato and salt flavors
- Outdoor terrace seating above the crashing waves
- Popular post-snorkeling and diving refreshment stop
- Kakigori shaved ice with local fruit toppings
Tips for visiting
- Visit as a post-snorkeling or diving refreshment stop
- No reservations needed; the cafe operates on a walk-in basis
- Try the purple sweet potato soft serve, a signature local flavor
- Sit on the terrace for the best ocean views
- Closed on Mondays, so plan the visit accordingly
Accessibility
The cafe's outdoor terrace seating is positioned near the coastline and may involve uneven ground, which could be challenging for wheelchair users; indoor seating offers a more level alternative.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a full restaurant or a snack stop?
It is primarily a casual snack and refreshment stop known for ice cream, shaved ice, and light plates rather than full meals.
What is the signature ice cream flavor?
Purple sweet potato (beni imo) soft serve is one of the most popular local flavors served here.
Are reservations needed?
No, the cafe operates on a casual walk-in basis.
What is the view like?
The cafe offers uninterrupted views of the East China Sea from its terrace near Cape Zanpa lighthouse.