There’s something about a beachside brunch that just hits differently. Maybe it’s the salt in the air, the promise of a laid-back day ahead or simply the unbeatable combination of a killer view and a top-tier menu. Whatever it is, these cafés and restaurants have perfected the art of brunch by the waves—think fresh, vibrant dishes, aromatic coffee and waterfront settings you’ll never want to leave.
Mudbar Restaurant – Launceston, TAS
A gem in the heart of the Old Launceston Seaport, Mudbar Restaurant is where fine dining meets the water’s edge. With floor-to-ceiling windows framing the marina, this sleek and stylish space exudes contemporary elegance. Dark chocolate-hued cushioned seating and warm ambient lighting create an inviting atmosphere, whether you’re lingering over brunch or settling in for a long, leisurely lunch. The Euro-Asian fusion menu is as refined as the setting, featuring bold flavours that surprise and delight.
A standout dish is the tempura soft-shell crab, given an umami-packed twist with togarashi spice and tom yum aioli. Follow it up with soy-roasted duck tossed through fragrant mushroom noodles, or dive into the delicate ceviche with green nam jim, coconut cream and Thai basil. For a heartier bite, the tempura lamb with Asian ginger, mint and white miso curd is a flavour explosion. The drinks list is just as impressive, with a carefully curated selection of wines to match the vibrant cuisine.
Milk & Beans Coffee House – Alexandra Headland, QLD
A go-to for both locals and visitors chasing the perfect caffeine hit, Milk & Beans Coffee House is a hidden treasure along the Sunshine Coast. This community-minded café blends a trendy, rustic aesthetic with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. An exposed red brick wall adorned with hanging greenery sets the tone inside, while recycled timber beams and industrial-chic lighting add to the charm. Whether you’re stopping by for a post-surf espresso or a long brunch, the menu is packed with fresh and flavourful bites.
Start your morning with an elevated avocado smash, featuring whipped feta, pistachio dukkah, lime, caramelised onion relish and baby micro basil on sourdough. Sweet tooths will fall for the Biscoff and caramel banana waffles, drizzled with rich butterscotch sauce. Burger lovers are well looked after too—the pulled pork burger, slow-braised with apple and paired with pickled cabbage, spinach and sesame Kewpie dressing on a soft milk bun, is a must-try.
Coast Palm Beach – Palm Beach, NSW
Nestled along Barrenjoey Road, Coast Palm Beach is a true seaside sanctuary, radiating effortless coastal charm. A crisp white and blonde wood palette reflects the relaxed beach lifestyle, with a surfboard mounted on the wall and a ship’s captain’s wheel adorning the counter. The alfresco area, shaded by rattan umbrellas and dotted with hanging greenery, is the ultimate brunch spot for sunny Sydney days.
Brunch here is all about bold, fresh flavours. The corn fritters, stacked with avocado, roasted tomato, halloumi, tzatziki and beetroot relish, are a crowd favourite. For something heartier, the breaky pita wrap, packed with bacon, egg, halloumi, tomato, avocado and a kick of Tabasco, is a winning choice. If you’re lingering into lunch, pair a crisp white wine with a Coast prawn roll, featuring plump prawns, lettuce, cucumber, avocado and a classic seafood sauce. The Coast Barramundi Burger—grilled barramundi with slaw, pickles and tartar sauce—is a highlight, perfectly complemented by golden fries.
Cotton Tree Beach Bar – Maroochydore, QLD
Perched along The Esplanade with sweeping water views, Cotton Tree Beach Bar captures the essence of Sunshine Coast dining. Whether you’re perched by the bifold windows soaking in the ocean breeze or settling into the cane-accented interior under the glow of an aqua neon sign, this spot is pure coastal bliss. Open from sunrise to sunset, the menu is fresh, vibrant and packed with innovative dishes that keep regulars coming back for more.
Start your day with pumpkin and halloumi fritters served alongside rocket, labneh, a perfectly poached egg, tomato chutney and caramelised onion. If you’re staying for lunch, dive into a plate of calamari dusted with kaffir lime togarashi, served with watercress, dill aioli and fresh lemon. For something more substantial, the seared scallop risotto, finished with peas, pickled fennel, pangrattato and Parmesan, is a decadent yet balanced choice. Pair it with a crisp cocktail or a local brew for the perfect seaside indulgence.
Brunch by the waves is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re after an indulgent long lunch in Launceston, a laid-back morning coffee in Palm Beach or a Sunshine Coast feast with uninterrupted ocean views, these waterfront spots are serving up the goods. So grab a seat, take in the salty air and let the brunch magic unfold.
