Sydney’s beaches are world-renowned for their beauty, and the city’s café culture is just as celebrated. beachside cafes are the perfect place to enjoy a meal or a coffee while soaking up the sun and sea breeze.
The sound of waves crashing against the shore, the warm sun on your skin, and the smell of salt in the air – there is nothing quite like dining at a beachside location. And when you add in stunning views of the water, it’s an experience that you won’t soon forget.
Luckily, there are plenty of cafes along the coast that offer great water views and delicious meals. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a romantic dinner, there’s sure to be a cafe that suits your needs. So next time you’re in the mood for a beach day, be sure to check out one of these great cafes.
Here are some of the best beachside and water view cafes in Sydney:
1. Whalebridge
2. Gunners Barracks
3. Bella Vista
4. The Boathouse Shelly Beach
5. The Boathouse Balmoral Beach
6. The Boathouse Palm Beach
7. The Boathouse Rose Bay
8. Altitude at Shangri-La
9. Sunrise Kiosk
10. Cabana Beach Kiosk
11. Hugos
12. Bosk
13. Plonk Cafe
14. Middle Harbour 16’ Skiff Club
15. Manly 16’ Skiff Club
16. The Beach Shed Cafe
17. The Boatshed Café & Bar
18. Bathers Pavillion
19. The Marina Café
20. The Newport
21. Bondi Icebergs
22. The Bower
23. Teahouse at Crown
24. Zoha Food & Wine
25. Hotel Palisade
26. Girdlers Café
27. Bluewater Manly
28. The Bavarian
29. Opera Bar
30. The Collaroy
31. Shed Bar & Restaurant
32. Afous
33. Wharf Bar
34. Ripples Little Manly
35. H2O Café Restaurant
36. Nourished Café & Lounge
37. White Rock Café
38. Chill Bar
39. Coogee Pavilion
40. Wharf Café & Bar
41. Manly Greenhouse
42. Gusto
43. Manly Pavilion
44. Sydney Tower Skyfeast
45. Starbucks Manly
46. Speedo Cafe
47. Blackbird Cafe
48. Brighton Kiosk
49. Bondi Trattoria
50. Harbord Diggers
51. Rice and Lake Thai
52. Hit Cafe
53. Tropikana Manly Beach
54. El Camino Cantina
55. Bistro Manly
56. The Sandy Bear
57. Stella Blu
58. The Pantry Manly
59. City Extra
60. Wock Bar
61. Celsius Cafe
62. Neptune’s
63. Thelma & Louise
64. Pavillion Beachside
65. Botanic House
66. The Surf Deck
67. The Bright Side
68. Wanderer Cafe
69. Bianchini’s
70. Next Door
71. Sea Level
72. Burnt Orange
73. Ripples Chowder Bay
74. Zimzala
75. DeAssis
76. Beach Club
77. The Boathouse Patonga
78. Tamarama Beach Cafe
79. Sea Salt Clovelly
80. Dunes Palm Beach
81. Molo
82. 2108 Palm Beach
83. Boatshed Woronora
1. Whalebridge
8 Circular Quay E Sydney, NSW 2000
There’s nothing quite like enjoying a meal with a view, and at Whalebridge you can do just that. Located opposite Sydney Harbour Bridge, this French-inspired eatery offers stunning panoramic views of the Sydney Harbour, Sydney Opera House and Circular Quay.
And of course, the food is simply delicious. With a menu full of classic French dishes, there’s something to suit every taste. The best part? The Whalebridge experience is surprisingly affordable, making it the perfect place to enjoy a special meal without breaking the bank. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience, be sure to check out Whalebridge cafe. You won’t regret it!
We visited the café during Vivid Sydney (annual festival that celebrates light and music). Even though it was a cold evening, the staff welcomed us with blankets and heaters and we enjoyed watching the colorful projections while sipping on hot drinks and chatting. The service was amazing and the staff was attentive and very friendly.
It was a magical evening that we’ll never forget.
2. Gunners Barracks
End of, Suakin Dr, Mosman NSW 2088
Nestled atop a cliff overlooking the azure waters of Sydney Harbour, Gunners Barracks is a hidden gem located in Sydney’s Mosman Bay and one of the most picturesque cafes in the city.
The cafe boasts a menu of seasonal Australian cuisine, including fresh seafood, salads, and sandwiches. And for those with a sweet tooth, Gunners Barracks also offers an array of delectable desserts.
But the real highlight of this cafe is its stunning views. On a clear day, you can see all the way from the Sydney Opera House to the Harbour Bridge.
The café has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The staff is friendly and helpful. The food is delicious and the prices are reasonable. The café is open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
The cafe also offers an impressive wine list, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of bubbly with friends. Whether you’re looking for a romantic spot for afternoon tea or a place to gather with friends, Gunners Barracks cafe is sure to exceed your expectations.
3. Bella Vista
203/33 N Head Scenic Dr, Manly NSW 2095
If you’re looking for a cafe with breathtaking views, Bella Vista at North Head, Manly is the perfect spot. Situated on a cliff overlooking the ocean, the cafe offers stunning panoramas of the Sydney coastline. The cafe itself is located in a heritage-listed building, which only adds to its charm.
And if you’re hungry, you’ll be spoiled for choice with the delicious meals on offer. From fresh pastries and salads to hearty burgers and sandwiches, there’s something to suit every taste. And if you’re feeling indulgent, don’t miss out on the delicious cakes and desserts on offer.
With its picture-perfect setting and sumptuous food, Bella Vista Cafe is the perfect place to relax and recharge.
4. The Boathouse Shelly Beach
1 Marine Parade, Manly NSW 2095
The Boathouse Shelly Beach Manly is a great place to enjoy the ocean views and sunsets. The location is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and kayaking.
The staff is very friendly and helpful, and the facilities are clean and well-maintained. The Boathouse is a great place to eat, with a wide variety of menu items to choose from for breakfast, brunch, lunch and afternoon tea.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, you’ll find something to suit your taste.
5. The Boathouse Balmoral Beach
2 The Esplanade, Mosman NSW 2088
The Boathouse Balmoral Beach is a family-friendly restaurant located on the water’s edge.
Situated on the beautiful Balmoral Beach, it offers stunning views of the city skyline and Sydney Harbour.
The menu features a wide variety of seafood, as well as meat and vegetarian options, all cooked to perfection. And don’t forget to try one of their delicious coffees. Whether you’re looking for a romantic breakfast or lunch with friends, the Boathouse Balmoral Beach is the perfect place to be.
6. The Boathouse Palm Beach
Governor Phillip Park, Palm Beach NSW 2108
The Boathouse Palm Beach Cafe is a popular choice for local beachgoers looking for a casual meal, refreshing drink or delicious coffee. The café offers stunning views of Pittwater and the surrounding coastline.
The menu features fresh, local seafood, as well as a variety of salads and sandwiches. There is also a selection of cakes and pastries for dessert. The café has a relaxed atmosphere, and the outdoor seating area offers stunning water views.
Whether you’re looking for a delicious breakfast, light snack or a hearty meal, Boathouse Palm Beach Cafe is sure to have something to tempt your taste buds.
So next time you’re in need of a escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, make your way to the Boathouse at Palm Beach.
7. The Boathouse Rose Bay
Rose Bay – 594 New South Head Rd, Rose Bay NSW 2029
Nestled amongst the luxury yachts of Sydney’s famous Rose Bay, The Boathouse is an iconic seafood restaurant with sweeping views of the harbour. The brainchild of husband and wife team Andrew and Sasha Wilkie,
The Boathouse has been serving up fresh, local seafood since its doors opened in 2009. With its picturesque setting and simple, seasonal menu, The Boathouse has become a favourite amongst Sydneysiders and visitors alike. On any given day, you’ll find locals enjoying fresh coffee after a beach walk or long lazy lunches on the sun-drenched deck. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh oysters or a hearty seafood feast, The Boathouse is the perfect spot to spend a few hours in Sydney’s spectacular harbourside.
8. Altitude Restaurant at Shangri-La Sydney
176 Cumberland St, The Rocks NSW 2000
If you’re looking for breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour, look no further than the Altitude Restaurant at Shangri-La Sydney hotel. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this stunning restaurant offers panoramic views of one of the world’s most iconic harbour cities.
Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely meal with friends or family, or celebrating a special occasion, Altitude is the perfect place to take in the beauty of Sydney.
With its modern Australian cuisine and attentive service, altitude is sure to make your dining experience one to remember. So if you’re in the city and looking for a truly unique dining experience, be sure to check out Altitude. . You won’t be disappointed.
9. Sunrise Kiosk
Surf Life Saving Club, Narrabeen Park Parade, Warriewood NSW 2102
The Sunrise Cafe is the perfect place to enjoy a casual meal with friends or family.
With its breathtaking views of Warriewood Beach, Sunrise Cafe is a great spot for a quick breakfast or lunch.
The menu features a range of fresh, healthy options, from avocado toast to salads and sandwiches. And of course, there’s no better way to start the day than with a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
The atmosphere at the Sunrise Cafe is casual and relaxed, so whether you’re looking for a quick bite before hitting the beach or a leisurely meal to enjoy the view, Sunrise Cafe is sure to please.
10. Cabana Beach Kiosk
1200 Pittwater Rd, Narrabeen NSW 2101
Cabana Beach Kiosk is a popular eatery amongst Narrabeen locals, due to its location and great menu.
The kiosk offers a wide range of food, from healthy wraps and salads to more indulgent options such as burgers and fries, making it the perfect place to grab a bite after a day at the beach.
With its lovely outdoor seating area overlooking the Narrabeen Beach, it’s the ideal place to relax and enjoy the company of good friends.
Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a leisurely dinner, Cabana Kiosk is the perfect spot to enjoy some time with good food and good company.
11. Hugos
Manly Wharf, 1 E Esplanade, Manly NSW 2095
Looking for a breathtaking view and delicious cuisine? Look no further than Hugo’s Manly Wharf.
Located on the water’s edge, this restaurant offers panoramic views of the harbour, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a meal or drinks with friends.
The menu features fresh, local seafood and other seasonal fare, so you’re sure to find something to your taste. And with its relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff, Hugo’s is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner.
So if you’re in the mood for some stunning views and great food, be sure to check out Hugo’s Manly Wharf.
12. Bosk
Clontarf Reserve, Sandy Bay Rd, Clontarf NSW 2093
Sitting right on the water’s edge at Clontarf Beach, Bosk Cafe is the perfect place to enjoy stunning views of the sea while indulging in a delicious meal.
Bosk chefs believe food should be fresh, local, and seasonal. That’s why their menu is updated regularly to showcase the best produce that Australia has to offer. While their exact offerings may change from week to week, you can always expect to find a delicious array of seasonal dishes.
In addition, they are fully licensed and offer a wide selection of specialty cocktails, wines, and beers. The coffee is also excellent, and there’s a wide selection of teas and juices available.
The staff are friendly and attentive, making Bosk Cafe the perfect place to relax and soak up the atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or a leisurely lunch with friends, Bosk Cafe is a great choice.
13. Plonk
Fergusons Marina, 83 Parriwi Rd, Mosman NSW 2088
If you’re looking for a great place to relax and enjoy a good meal, Plonk Cafe at the Spit Bridge is definitely worth checking out.
The cafe has a beautiful outdoor seating area with views of Clontarf Beach, and the food is absolutely delicious.
I highly recommend their tiger prawns – they are one of the best I’ve ever had!
Plonk Cafe is definitely a great spot for a leisurely lunch or dinner with friends. Just be sure to get there early or book in advance – it gets pretty busy during peak times!
14. Middle Harbour 16’ Skiff Sailing Club Bar & Bistro
237 Spit Rd, Mosman NSW 2088
The Middle Harbour 16′ Skiff Sailing Club Bar & Bistro is located near the Spit Bridge and overlooks Clontarf Beach. It offers a spacious dining experience with great views of the water and marina.
The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, as well as a selection of meats and vegetables. The chefs are passionate about using fresh, local ingredients, and they create tasty meals that are sure to please every palate.
In addition to the wonderful food, the club also offers a great selection of wines and beers. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing meal with friends or an exciting night out, the Middle Harbour 16′ Skiff Sailing Club is the perfect place to be.
15. Manly 16’ Skiff Club
Cnr East Esplanade & Stuart Street, Manly 2095
The Manly 16′ Skiff club is located on the water’s edge in beautiful Manly. With panoramic views of the harbour, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a lazy summer afternoon or watch the sun set over the city skyline.
The club is also a great place to meet other like-minded people who share your passion for sailing. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a complete novice, you’ll be made to feel welcome at the Manly 16′ Skiff club.
The club also has a number of amenities, including two bars, harbourside brasserie and a function/conference room and has regular special nights, such as steak night or parmi night.
