With more than 33,000 km of coastline along with rivers, estuaries and lakes, Australia abounds in water views – and we can’t get enough of them.
There is nothing better than taking in a stunning waterfront vista with a glass of chilled white wine whether you are by the seaside, lake or river. Here are six of our favourite venues where the view is as good as the food:
Coastal Mediterranean Vibe
A sunny waterfront restaurant serving coastal Mediterranean Summer vibes on a private beach at Mosman’s The Spit with views of crystal-clear turquoise waters and luxury yachts…that’s what you’ll find at St Siandra on Lower Parriwi Road. Every day feels like a holiday at this bar, restaurant and events venue emulating the sun-soaked, carefree, fun-loving feeling you get from a trip away.
Be transported to the Mediterranean as you sail through a bottle of bubbles and delight in a menu of vibrant seasonal produce and seafood; dive right in with tuna crudo, cucumber, red peppers and anchovy, followed by whole market fish, zucchini flower and mojo verde.
Gorgeous Seaside Views
Come for the beach, stay for the food at HNLY on Seaview Road in Henley Beach. Mediterranean dining doesn’t get much better than this as you soak up gorgeous seaside views and breathtaking sunsets from level one of Henley Square, in coastal surrounds of striped banquette seating on the verandah to a stacked stone wall indoors, along with blond wood furniture and potted greenery adding a softening touch.
Start with Spencer Gulf prawns, nduja, lemon and shallots, or calamari fritto misto, buttermilk, dill pickle and lemon; before larger options such as porchetta with apricot and pistachio preserve, veal jus and sides of crispy potatoes and charred broccolini.
Relaxed, Tranquil Ambience
Fine dining and breathtaking water views await discerning Batemans Bay foodies at Water’s Edge Restaurant on Orient Street. The South Coast NSW dining destination located on the iconic Murra-Murra Mia Walkway waterfront allows guests to indulge in delectable dishes while immersed in the captivating scenery, relaxed and tranquil ambience, making for the ideal choice for a special occasion or romantic rendezvous.
Gin-cured salmon, pickled cucumber, lime and mint is the ideal beginning to your culinary journey, followed by memorable mains such as lamb confit, Paris mash, roasted honey garlic, carrot purée and mint jus, enjoyed with a glass of Pinot Noir.
Riverside Vistas & Great Food
Located next to Canning Bridge, The Rowing Pavilion on The Esplanade brings great food and drinks along with riverside views to Perth diners. Nestled in the three-storey pavilion that is home to rowing clubs, The Pav as it is affectionately known boasts stunning vistas from the alfresco area, while indoors is light, bright and breezy with floor-to-ceiling windows providing not only water views but also an abundance of natural light.
It’s all about sharing – start with tempura sesame prawns, chilli, lime aioli and vermicelli, or sticky lamb ribs, scallions, sesame and chilli; before picking up a slice of gourmet pizza topped with brisket, smoked corn purée, mozzarella and red onion.
Ocean Views From Every Table
Offering stunning views from every table, Jonah’s on Bynya Road in Whale Beach is one of Australia’s most spectacular ocean retreats. Located on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, this Chef-hatted venue has uninterrupted sea views from floor-to-ceiling glass windows, while the terrace balcony perches on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean – ideal for whiling away an afternoon with your special someone and a bottle of bubbles.
Expect contemporary Modern Australian cuisine with a focus on seafood, as seen in entrées of hiramasa kingfish, ricotta, green tomato, almonds and olives; pasta lovers opt for wholemeal casarecce with zucchini, King prawns and gremolata.
Waterfront Vistas & Contemporary Dining
Located on the Murray River at Goolwa Wharf, Hector’s Modern Australian Kitchen combines waterfront views with a contemporary dining experience. On warm days sit alfresco on the heritage-listed wharf and watch all manner of watercraft cruise by; or dine indoors in a nautical vibe of sailboats, paddles, recycled timber floors and shabby chic furniture.
Early risers opt for smashed avocado toast, herb-roasted tomato, poached egg, crumbled feta and rocket to start the day; while the later crowd delves into a Parmesan herb-crumbed pork cutlet, with pork cider jus, apple and cabbage slaw.