There’s something unmistakably soothing about the gentle lapping of waves, the scent of salt in the air and a plate of exquisitely prepared seafood in front of you. Waterfront dining isn’t just about the view - it’s a full sensory experience, marrying the best of coastal living with culinary flair. Across the country, these venues have mastered that balance, offering standout menus and prime seaside locations that invite long lunches, leisurely dinners and golden-hour cocktails.
Whether you’re after refined Modern Australian, bold Asian fusion or authentic Mediterranean flair, these five venues serve up unforgettable meals with a side of waterfront serenity.
The Backyard by Shangri-La – Cairns, Qld
Set against the crystalline waters of Cairns’ marina, The Backyard by Shangri-La brings a relaxed yet sophisticated edge to tropical waterfront dining. Located within The Pier Shopping Centre, this breezy venue effortlessly captures the spirit of Far North Queensland with its lush indoor-outdoor setup, laid-back vibe and unbeatable harbour views. The open-plan dining encourages lingering - cocktail in hand - while soaking up the golden hues of the setting sun, all with a distinctly casual elegance that’s become synonymous with Cairns' coastal culture.
Seafood is the undisputed star of the show and the signature platter reads like a love letter to the ocean. Prawns, scallops spiked with ginger and chilli, salt and pepper squid and battered mackerel take centre stage, complemented by betel leaf, Huon salmon and a refreshing green papaya and chilli mix. Natural oysters and crispy fries, paired with roasted seaweed and mayo, round out a dish that is as indulgent as it is emblematic of the region’s rich aquatic bounty.
The Point at Avoca Beach – Avoca Beach, NSW
A beloved local haunt that feels more like a homecoming than a restaurant, The Point at Avoca Beach is nestled beneath the Surf Lifesaving Club and embodies everything you’d want from a seaside escape. Its open-air alfresco vibe pairs perfectly with the sounds of crashing waves and sea breeze, while the bright, coastal interiors blur the line between inside and out. This is a place where friendly smiles and the familiar scent of fresh coffee or grilled seafood invite you to slow down and savour.
The menu reflects that same sense of comfort with an elevated twist. One of the standouts? A deeply satisfying braised beef pot pie, slow-cooked with rosemary, thyme and a hit of Cabernet Sauvignon for richness, served with golden chips and a fresh salad. It’s a classic reimagined - hearty and homely, yet executed with finesse - mirroring the venue’s ability to turn everyday beachside dining into something truly memorable.
Elegantly perched along the Georges River in Kyle Bay, Jaaks is a sleek waterfront escape that channels the rustic soul of Greek cuisine through a fine-dining lens. This family-run gem takes its name from the initials of the owners’ five children and that familial warmth weaves its way through every element - from the attentive service to the six-course degustation that feels like a curated culinary journey across the Aegean. With serene water views and an upscale ambience, it’s a refined space that still feels intimate and personal.
Expect a symphony of flavours that speak to the islands and mountains of Greece. The degustation might open with octopus paired with tomato, olives and risoni, before diving into quail with creamy skordalia, sharp kefalograviera and earthy beetroot. A lamb main layered with horta and lemon velouté grounds the experience in tradition, while the walnut dessert with moustokoulouro and salted caramel finishes things on a decadently sweet note. It's Greek dining redefined.
The Rocks Restaurant Marino – Marino Rocks, SA
A surprise gem tucked away in Adelaide’s southern coastal pocket, The Rocks Restaurant Marino delivers panoramic ocean views and bold Asian fusion flavours that go well beyond the expected. Situated along Marine Parade, this contemporary venue plays host to romantic dinners and intimate celebrations, all framed by golden-hour vistas that stretch across the water. Customisable menus and personalised service make it a go-to for special occasions, while the cocktail list (try the Rocks Sunset) encourages lingering until the last light fades.
Dishes burst with colour, texture and international flair. The Thai green chicken curry is a particular standout, balancing aromatic coconut richness with crisp capsicum, tender broccoli and cauliflower and the fresh hit of Asian herbs. Paired with steamed rice, it’s comfort food reimagined through a refined lens - satisfying, vibrant and perfectly in tune with the venue’s lively, elegant atmosphere.
Coolum Beach Bar – Coolum Beach, Qld
Casual, contemporary and bursting with character, Coolum Beach Bar sits just steps from the sand, blending the best of Sunshine Coast beach culture with a slick modern menu. Found beneath the Coolum Baywatch apartments on the Esplanade, this all-day venue delivers panoramic ocean views and an easygoing vibe that makes it ideal for both morning beachgoers and spritz-fuelled afternoon catch-ups. Think people-watching with an icy drink in hand as the surf rolls in below.
Among the many shareable hits, the Thai calamari salad is a firm favourite. Light, fresh and packing a punch, it features crispy fried calamari tossed with rocket, carrot, cabbage, pickled onion and cucumber. The coconut peanut dressing and candied peanuts tie it all together in a rich, tangy harmony that balances crunch, spice and sweetness. It's the kind of dish that demands a second fork and maybe a second cocktail.
Waterfront dining isn’t just about the scenery - it’s about how place and plate come together to create something unforgettable. These venues each offer a distinctive take on coastal cuisine, proving that whether you’re after laid-back beach bar bites or a multi-course journey through the Mediterranean, there’s nothing quite like dining by the water.
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