There’s something undeniably indulgent about dining with a view of the water. Whether it’s waves crashing nearby, yachts gently rocking at anchor or dolphins making a cameo, the tranquillity of the sea pairs perfectly with a well-crafted plate and a glass of wine in hand.
In this curated list, we spotlight five venues where the view is just as spectacular as the menu. From bustling harbours to serene beaches, these dining destinations serve up the best of both worlds - coastal charm and culinary finesse.
An institution on the Hobart dining scene, T42 Hobart delivers a refined waterfront experience set directly on Elizabeth Street Pier. With sweeping views across the River Derwent and up to Kunanyi, the setting is pure Tasmanian magic - think glass-clad dining room, the clink of wine glasses and an ever-present sea breeze. The fit-out leans modern but relaxed, effortlessly blending the elegant with the approachable. Whether you’re settling in for a date night or soaking in the scenery solo, T42 is a masterclass in location-driven dining.
True to its island setting, the menu champions fresh local produce and seafood - Tasmanian through and through. Begin your journey with white fish ceviche kissed with yuzu and coconut, garnished with pickled ginger, mandarin and a crisp rice cracker. For something heartier, the braised pepperberry beef with pumpkin gnocchi hits a rich, savoury note, while the sticky pulled pork with crispy wontons and garlic aioli adds a modern, Asian-inspired twist. Pair it all with a wine flight featuring Tasmania’s best and you’ve got the full T42 experience.
Preece's at the Jetty – Redcliffe, Qld
Perched along the Redcliffe Parade, Preece’s at the Jetty is a local gem where café culture meets breezy coastal views. A compact alfresco setup allows you to bask in the sun with Moreton Bay as your backdrop, while inside, the vibe is warm and contemporary - wood floors, pendent lighting and a relaxed hum of conversation. It’s the kind of place where families brunch, couples linger and locals return, drawn by the consistently inviting atmosphere.
The menu is café-style comfort food with a touch of sophistication. The breaky bagel is a hearty morning staple, layered with bacon, egg, hash brown and a punchy kasundi relish. Lunchtime sees a shift to more elevated plates - think grilled barramundi served over a warm bean salad with almonds, caper mayo and lemon. There’s also pasta for days, including a creamy penne with bacon, garlic, chilli and Grana Padano that pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of white.
The Kiosk Newcastle Beach – Newcastle City, NSW
Few venues embody the carefree spirit of coastal living like The Kiosk Newcastle Beach. Tucked along Shortland Esplanade, this beachside beauty invites sandy feet and sun-drenched afternoons, with front-row seats to the surf and the occasional dolphin sighting. The fit-out is all beach shack cool - timber cladding, breezy interiors and an open-air patio that invites you to linger long after your coffee’s gone cold.
Food here is unfussy but flavour-packed. Mornings kick off with a Reuben sourdough toastie brimming with pastrami, sauerkraut and Swiss cheese or a classic smashed avo elevated by lemon and halloumi. For lunch, the Shark Alley burger takes centre stage with beer-battered fish, slaw and tartar sauce served in a pillowy bun. Or grab a fish-and-chips family pack and make your own beachside picnic - laid-back, delicious and unmistakably Newcastle.
Empire Lounge at Sydney Sea Planes – Rose Bay, NSW
Built over the glimmering waters of Rose Bay, Empire Lounge offers a splash of glamour with your seaside lunch. Nestled at Sydney Seaplanes’ terminal, this luxe venue gives you the option to arrive by air and dine in style, gazing out across the harbour as yachts glide by. The space is equal parts modern and nautical chic - gleaming timber finishes, wall-to-wall glass and a breeze that carries the scent of salt and citrus.
The menu is a celebration of Modern Australian flair with a global touch. A breakfast standout is the spanner crab omelette, layered with corn, garlic, sesame soy dressing and served with sourdough toast. Later in the day, the Thai coconut curry with barramundi and sambal pickles takes diners on a journey of bold, aromatic flavours; or go for the lamb shoulder with mint salsa and charred veg - a dish that brings depth, richness and balance to the table.
Breakwall @ Coffs Yachtie – Coffs Harbour, NSW
Nestled within the Coffs Harbour Yacht Club, Breakwall @ Coffs Yachtie is a relaxed brasserie-style venue with unbeatable views of the marina and beyond. The deck is where the magic happens - salt air, wide-open skies and the gentle bob of boats set the scene for everything from early breakfasts to sunset dinners. Inside, the vibe is rustic coastal with wine barrels and recycled timber tables giving it an easy charm.
Breakfast might include a smoked salmon, avocado and feta omelette, while lunch and dinner step it up a notch. The Poseidon chicken is a local favourite, stacked with prawns, avocado and Hollandaise atop chat potatoes. For a true maritime feast, dive into the seafood basket - tempura prawn cutlets, crumbed scallops, salt and pepper squid and golden chips, all served with salad and a tangy tartar sauce. It’s classic brasserie fare elevated by seaside elegance.
There’s a distinct kind of magic that happens when top-notch food meets an unforgettable view. Whether it’s an early morning beachside bite or a refined dinner by the harbour, these venues prove that Australia’s coastal dining scene is as diverse as it is delicious. So next time you’re craving a meal with a view, let the ocean lead the way - you just might find your new favourite table by the water.
