Dining by the water is an experience like no other - where the rhythm of the waves meets the art of fine cuisine. Whether you're looking for a sophisticated seafood spread, a sun-drenched deck with a cocktail in hand or a steakhouse with panoramic marina views, we’ve got you covered. Here are five top waterfront dining destinations that seamlessly blend stunning scenery with unforgettable meals.
Pebble Beach at qualia – Hamilton Island, Qld
Perched at the northernmost tip of Hamilton Island, Pebble Beach at qualia is an exclusive waterfront haven offering a refined yet relaxed dining experience. The open-air setting, where the infinity of the Coral Sea meets the Whitsundays, is a feast for the eyes. With a commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing, the menu is a showcase of Modern Australian excellence, celebrating the best produce from across the country.
Begin with cured hiramasa kingfish, delicately balanced with almond, Nashi pear and sea succulents, paired perfectly with a crisp Riesling. If you're after something heartier, the striploin served with shallots, sugarloaf cabbage and mushroom, is a standout, best enjoyed alongside a bold Hentley Farm ‘The Beast’ Shiraz. For dessert, the burnt pavlova with seasonal fruit and anglaise delivers a sweet finale to an exquisite meal. Opt for the tasting menu to experience highlights such as Wagyu tartare with soy custard and radish, ensuring a truly indulgent experience.
Nestled on the Esplanade in the charming coastal town of Paynesville, Pier 70 is a waterfront gem where contemporary style meets a warm, inviting atmosphere. The high ceilings, whitewashed walls and exposed timber details create a breezy, beachside aesthetic, while the outdoor deck offers front-row seats to the marina’s gentle tides.
The menu reflects Modern Australian influences with European flair, delivering plates designed to be savoured alongside a crisp sea breeze. Kick things off with pan-fried prawns sautéed in olive oil, garlic and chilli before diving into the house special seafood chowder - a comforting blend of shallots, fennel, cream, garlic and fresh herbs, served with stone-baked bread. Alternatively, indulge in the premium Scotch fillet, complemented by potatoes, seasonal vegetables and a rich béarnaise sauce for a satisfying and expertly crafted main.
Royal Brighton Yacht Club – Brighton, Vic
For those craving a relaxed beachfront dining experience with unbeatable views, Royal Brighton Yacht Club is a must-visit. Positioned right on the Esplanade, this restaurant delivers a laid-back coastal charm, with alfresco seating overlooking the marina and Port Phillip Bay. Inside, cane chairs and breezy décor enhance the effortless beachside vibe, making it an ideal spot for a casual yet refined meal.
Breakfast-goers will love the toasted crumpets topped with salmon gravlax, prawn, dill mayo, caviar bush tomato pearls and dill oil, while lunch and dinner bring crowd favourites like salt and pepper calamari with lime and aioli. The miso-glazed baked salmon is a highlight, served with baby corn, edamame, shiitake mushrooms, crisp rice noodles and a fragrant yuzu soy dressing, offering a perfect balance of bold flavours and delicate textures.
Unicorn Seafood Restaurant – Kingscliff, NSW
Unicorn Seafood Restaurant on Marine Parade is where Kingscliff’s coastal charm meets Greek hospitality. With blue-and-white accents, twinkling fairy lights and open bi-fold doors allowing the sea breeze to filter through, this family-run eatery creates an atmosphere that feels like an Aegean escape.
True to its Mediterranean roots, the menu is a love letter to fresh seafood and traditional Greek flavours. Begin with a generous platter of King prawns, oysters, smoked salmon, dolmades and capers, then dive into signature barbequed bugs with lemon butter, served alongside a crisp garden salad and golden fries. The Seafood Platter is an opulent feast, featuring fresh King prawns, mixed oysters, garlic prawns, grilled fish, calamari, barbequed bugs, lobster mornay and seasonal fruit - an unmissable indulgence best paired with a chilled glass of Assyrtiko.
The Bistro 19 – King Street Wharf, NSW
Sydney’s King Street Wharf is home to some of the best waterfront dining in the city and The Bistro 19 is no exception. Combining the best of Modern Australian and Italian cuisine, this stylish venue offers an unbeatable blend of laid-back sophistication and vibrant energy. The alfresco seating delivers picturesque harbour views, while inside, the restaurant’s contemporary design sets the stage for a refined yet relaxed dining experience.
Start with charred baby octopus, marinated in citrus and thyme, served with confit garlic potato purée and heirloom tomatoes. Follow up with a main of linguine with prawns, fermented chilli, truss tomatoes and cold-pressed olive oil, or indulge in the Memphis BBQ platter - a carnivorous delight of lamb, chicken, striploin, prawns and pita bread, served with tzatziki and baby cress salad. For steak lovers, the Wagyu striploin, topped with a prawn skewer and your choice of peppercorn or chimichurri sauce, is an absolute must.
Whether you're sipping wine overlooking the Whitsundays, feasting on Greek seafood by the beach or indulging in a premium steak by the marina, these waterfront venues prove that location and flavour go hand in hand. With each restaurant offering its own take on waterside dining, there’s never been a better time to explore the best of Australia’s coastal culinary scene. Ready to take your seat by the water?
