There’s something undeniably special about dining with the ocean as your backdrop—the rhythmic crash of the waves, the salty sea breeze, and the ever-changing hues of the horizon. Whether you’re after fresh seafood or a perfectly cooked steak with panoramic views, these coastal venues promise an unforgettable culinary experience. From Sydney’s luxurious Northern Beaches to the stunning shores of Point Lookout, here are five restaurants where the view is just as spectacular as the food.
Perched high above the Pacific Ocean on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, Jonah’s is an institution of coastal luxury. With uninterrupted views from floor-to-ceiling windows and a terrace balcony that clings to the cliffside, this Chef-hatted restaurant is the epitome of romantic oceanfront dining. Whether you’re toasting with a glass of Champagne or indulging in a leisurely long lunch, Jonah’s offers an exquisite setting to soak in the beauty of Whale Beach.
The menu at Jonah’s showcases contemporary Modern Australian cuisine with a strong focus on seafood. A standout entrée is the hiramasa kingfish, elevated with ricotta, green tomato, almonds and olives. For a show-stopping main, the whole Eastern rock lobster for two—served with thermidor sauce, orange mayo and lobster vinaigrette—is pure indulgence. Alternatively, the lobster capellini pasta with garlic, chilli and saffron is a must-try for those who appreciate refined yet comforting flavours.
NOAH’S on the Beach – Newcastle, NSW
If you’re looking for a front-row seat to Newcastle Beach’s stunning expanse, NOAH’S on the Beach is the place to be. Housed within the Quality Hotel, this award-winning restaurant offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, perfect for special occasions or sunset cocktails. Crisp white linens, fresh flowers and ambient lantern lighting set the tone for an elegant dining experience with uninterrupted ocean views.
The menu changes with the seasons, but the emphasis remains on fresh, locally sourced produce. Start with confit octopus, paired with taramasalata, tom berries, gremolata and a delicate herb crumb. Mains highlight robust flavours, such as char siew pork belly with stir-fried noodles, house kimchi and Nashi pear crisps, or the ever-popular beef fillet with kipfler potatoes, speck, peas and oyster fritters. For seafood lovers, the generous platter—featuring prawns, oysters, slipper lobster, grilled fish, mussels, calamari and more—is the ultimate indulgence.
Simon’s Waterfront – Warrnambool, VIC
Nestled atop the Warrnambool Surf Lifesaving Club, Simon’s Waterfront boasts one of the most breathtaking vantage points along the Great Ocean Road. Whether you’re sipping a craft beer in the beer garden or sinking into a cosy couch by the fire with a warm drink, this venue encapsulates the laidback charm of coastal Victoria.
As expected, the seafood selection is stellar. Kick things off with tacos packed with sriracha and maple-glazed prawns, then dive into the creamy seafood chowder, served in a locally made cobb loaf—a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect after a bracing walk along the beach. If you’re craving something different, the Nepalese lamb shank curry with yoghurt raita, steamed rice and housemade flatbread is a warming alternative.
Beach House Hotel – Scarness, QLD
Set along the Esplanade in Scarness, the Beach House Hotel is far more than your average pub. With its unbeatable location overlooking the pristine waters of Hervey Bay and the historic jetty, this lively venue offers a dynamic mix of indoor and alfresco dining, function spaces and live music on weekends. Whether you’re stopping in for a casual drink or a long seafood feast, the atmosphere is always buzzing.
The menu blends classic pub favourites with Asian-inspired twists. Start with karaage chicken, lightly spiced with togarashi and served with Japanese mayo, or try the cuttlefish with black garlic aioli and a seaweed crunch. Signature mains include Singapore chilli mussels with sofrito sauce, grilled sourdough and fresh herbs. But for the ultimate ocean-to-plate experience, don’t go past the bug and prawn linguine, tossed with white wine butter sauce, chilli, peas, cherry tomato, dill and capers.
Six Beaches Fish Grill & Bar – Point Lookout, QLD
For a true ocean-to-table experience, Six Beaches Fish Grill & Bar on Mooloomba Road is a must-visit. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Brisbane coastline, this restaurant offers an immersive seaside dining experience where every meal feels like a celebration of the ocean. Whether you’re soaking up the sun over a long lunch or enjoying an intimate dinner, the stunning views stretch as far as the eye can see.
With a focus on fresh, locally sourced seafood, the menu is a showcase of coastal flavours. A standout lunch dish is the king prawns, cooked to perfection with chilli, garlic and lemon. For a richer, more indulgent option, the spaghetti with Moreton Bay bug, tomato pomodoro, basil and chilli crumb is a masterclass in balance and simplicity. Evening diners can savour the char-grilled rib fillet with chimichurri and chips, rounding off a meal that perfectly complements the laidback yet luxurious setting.
From Sydney’s iconic cliffsides to the hidden gems of Queensland’s coast, these oceanfront restaurants offer more than just a meal—they provide an experience that lingers long after the last bite. Whether you’re in the mood for a decadent seafood feast, a perfectly grilled steak or a comforting bowl of chowder, dining by the water elevates every flavour. So book a table, soak up the salty air and let the ocean set the scene for your next culinary adventure.
