Beachfront Bars To Visit This Summer

Sand, sunset and spritz. When it comes to indulging in some summer drinks, it doesn’t get much better than these Australian beach bars.

Compared to Europe, the Australian beach has a reputation that’s less about booze and more about boards.

But if you’re dying to sip some prosecco with sand still clinging to your feet, don’t despair. Slap on some sunscreen and gather your mates — we’ve lined up the best beach bars in Australia.

1. Raes Cellar Bar, Byron Bay NSW

Overlooking Byron Bay’s Wategos Beach, the institution that is Raes’s on Wategos is a luscious boutique hotel that was even voted as one of the world’s top 25 hotels. But while the hotel itself might be out of the budget for now, their Cellar Bar could be just the ticket to experiencing its delicately pastel-hued, and Mediterranean interiors, and Northern Rivers ambience.

the exterior of Raes Cellar Bar, Byron Bay NSW — Raes Cellar Bar is Mediterranean-inspired.

For the optimal experience, come here before sunset to sip a sundowner and munch on a roll of bay lobster tail and old bay spiced mayo, and watch the sun sink over the sand. Walk-ins only.

Mediterranean interiors at Raes Cellar Bar, Byron Bay NSW — Sip a sundowner under the yellow umbrellas.

Address: 6-8 Marine Parade, Byron Bay, NSW

2. Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel, Watsons Bay, NSW

Where else to go on those classically beautiful Sydney summer days, but overlooking its world-famous harbour? Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel in Sydney’s eastern suburbs has water views in spades from its rooftop bar, as well as close access to the sandy beach below.

Sydney Harbour views from the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel — Dine with views of the harbour at Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel. (Image: Destination NSW)

Its bottomless rose brunches and DJ Sunday sessions make it a popular choice among the Sydney bars — so get there early for a spot!

the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel at sunset — Head to Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel for sunset. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 1 Military Rd, Watsons Bay, NSW

3. Clancy’s Fish Bar City Beach, Perth, WA

There’s something universal about being by the ocean and getting that craving for fish and chips. When it hits (and if you’re in Perth), Clancy’s Fish Bar is just the place to go. With four different locations across Western Australia, the funkily coloured City Beach locale is right on the sand and gives beach shack vibes, complete with live music, while overlooking the Indian Ocean.

the interior of Clancy’s Fish Bar City Beach in Perth, WA — Take in majestic beach views from your seat at Clancy’s Fish Bar City Beach.

While they have craft beers, local wine and classic cocktails on offer, it’s Clancy’s seafood that really shines here. From buckets of cold Queensland prawns to katsu fish burgers made of local saddletail snapper, with ginger sesame slaw, the fare here is anything if not original.

the Clancy’s Fish Bar City Beach in Perth, WA — Order your drinks with fresh seafood at Clancy’s Fish Bar City Beach.

Address: 195 Challenger Parade, City Beach, WA

4. Burleigh Pavilion, Burleigh Heads, Qld

Seafood, cocktails and views over the sand and the skyline — what could make a better bar on the sunny Gold Coast? At the Burleigh Pavilion, you get all of this and more. Head to the bar, The Terrace, for casual hangs at its white picnic tables, freshly shucked oysters and salt and pepper calamari, and tropical cocktails to be enjoyed to DJ beats (playing Thursday to Sunday), while keeping the iconic surline in sight.

beachside dining at Burleigh Pavilion — Enjoy drinks by the beach at Burleigh Pavilion.

After more of a sit-down meal? The Tropic restaurant (think Mediterranean-style meets Modern Australian, with a hearty dose of seafood) serves everything from cold seafood plates to share, to extravagant bumps of Caviar Oscietra, served with vodka.

a surfer seen from the waterfront dining at Burleigh Pavilion — You can even watch surfers ride on the waves from your seat.

Address: 3a/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads, Qld

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

5. Salt House, Cairns City, Qld

If you’ve ever been to the tropical hub of Cairns, chances are you know what a laidback city it is — which is half its charm, of course. But if you are after a touch of pizazz, head down to the waterfront, where you’ll find Salt House.

al fresco seating at Salt House, Cairns City, Qld — Pull up a chair at Salt House.

Jutting out into the water, Salt House is all about the al fresco drinks with flavours of the far north — like a Davidson plum sour with hibiscus syrup and Lūla white rum — best enjoyed as the sun dips over the nearby mountains, and live music plays.

If its delectable bar snacks, like crumbed prawn sliders or grilled calamari with agrodolce, kombu salt and lemon, aren’t filling enough, the Salt House restaurant has more substantial fare, in a quieter atmosphere. Meanwhile, out the front, you can buy pizzas, served hot from a brick oven.

the waterfront beach bar at Salt House, Cairns City, Qld — You’ll find Salt House by the waterfront.

Address: Marina Point, 6/2 Pier Point Rd, Cairns City, Qld

6. Baillie’s Bar, Heron Island, Qld

How special can a beach bar really be, if it’s not a bit of a challenge to get there? Enter Baillie’s Bar. At 72 kilometres off the coast of Queensland on the coral cay island of Heron Island, it definitely has those Castaway vibes. But instead of a coconut as your only companion, you have a friendly bartender serving you glasses of sparkling.

an al fresco dining at Baillie’s Bar, Heron Island, Qld — Take in views of the Great Barrier Reef from the outdoor terrace.

The bar has a library and pool tables for those who want to happily entertain themselves. However, it might be hard to focus on this when the view is really the star here, with the magnificent Great Barrier Reef in sight from the outdoor terrace. So, keep your eyes peeled for turtle sightings!

two people admiring the sunset at Baillie’s Bar, Heron Island, Qld — Raise a glass at Baillie’s Bar.

Convinced? To get here, take the regular Heron Island boat.

Address: Heron Island, Qld

7. Moseley Beach Club, Glenelg, SA

Get that dose of Amalfi lifestyle when you drop by Moseley Beach Club at Glenelg Beach. Operating in summer at the popular beach (about 20 minutes from the Adelaide CBD), this Greek island-style beach club has become a firm favourite among locals for its uber-aesthetic blue and white deck chairs, day lounges and beach umbrellas, live music, beachy frozen pink lemonade cocktails and general sunshine vibes.

blue and white deck chairs, day lounges and beach umbrellas at The Moseley Beach Club, Glenelg, SA — You can wriggle your toes in the sand at Moseley Beach Club. (Image: Nathan Godwin)

Also, did we mention Moseley Beach Club is literally on the sand? So, if you want to burrow your toes in it (while sipping on Pimms, of course), get here fast. The club is only open between December and April.

The Moseley Beach Club, Glenelg, SA at sunset — Chase sunsets at The Moseley. (Image: Ryan Formosa Photography)

Address: Glenelg Beach, Glenelg, SA

8. Bacchus Bar, Henley Beach, SA

Want to try something outside of Adelaide’s most popular beach? Henley Beach is just up the road from Glenelg Beach and offers an alternative beach watering hole with its Bacchus Bar. A few steps from the sand, the dog-friendly Bacchus Bar offers fruity cocktails and DJ sets, perfect for overlooking the Southern Ocean on a summer day

Address: 253 Esplanade, Henley Beach, SA

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

9. The Darwin Ski Club, Fannie Bay, NT

Named for the water skiers you might see jetting about in the Timor Sea, off the shore of this iconic Top End bar, The Darwin Ski Club is perhaps the best beach bar to watch a sunset from in Darwin.

sunset views at The Darwin Ski Club, Fannie Bay, NT — Dramatic sunset views are common at The Darwin Ski Club.

To liven things up, start at The Bali Bar, with its harbour views and live music. Feeling peckish after a day exploring Darwin? The Epikur restaurant bistro has your back, with Modern Australian fare like buckets of local prawns, grilled fish and vegan plates.

Darwin Ski Club at sunset — Sink into a cold one at Darwin Ski Club.

Address: 20 Conacher St, Fannie Bay, NT

10. Bomboras Beach Bar, Torquay, Vic

Planning a Great Ocean Road trip this summer? Then make a (responsible) stop at the pop-up bar, Bomboras Beach Bar. Running every summer, this dog-friendly Torquay bar faces out over the waters of the famous surf town at Fishos Beach.

cocktail drinks at Bomboras Beach Bar, Torquay, Vic — Sip refreshing cocktails at Bomboras Beach Bar.

Grab some food from the idling food truck out the front (or order half a dozen Bruny Island oysters), and plonk yourself down in the open air to listen to live music. With the ocean breeze blowing in your hair, and the Great Ocean Road stretching out before you, it doesn’t get much better than this.

al fresco seating with fairy lights at Bomboras Beach Bar, Torquay, Vic — Bomboras Beach Bar gives beach shack.

Address: 48 The Esplanade, Torquay, Vic

11. Republica, St Kilda, Vic

Sydney might get all the kudos for its beach lifestyle, but a hop, skip and jump away from the Melbourne CBD, you’ll find Republica — one of the Victorian capital’s best beach bars.

people dining al fresco at Republica, St Kilda, Vic — Cheers to good food and live music at Republica.

Overlooking St Kilda’s Beach, this relaxed restaurant-meets-bar combines laidback vibes, happy hour specials that cover everything from espresso martinis to pizzas, and live music to great effect.

palm trees dotting the beach at Republica, St Kilda, Vic — Republica is a laidback beachfront bar.

Address: 1A-1D, 10-18 Jacka Blvd, St Kilda, Vic

12. Sebastian, Williamstown, Vic

Forget about the Australian coastline. For a touch of that Spanish beach life, head to the restaurant and bar Sebastian in Williamstown, Victoria.

hands raising cocktail glasses at Sebastian, Williamstown, Vic — Drink cocktails by the water at Sebastian.

Modelling itself after the flavours of the Basque country (and named after the famous beach city of San Sebastian), the dishes are a delectable fusion of Modern Australian and Northern Spanish pintxos. To drink, the Europe vibes at this bar call for Aperol Spritz, as well as chilled sangria and camparis.

al fresco dining at Sebastian, Williamstown, Vic — Head to Sebastian for a touch of Spanish beach life.

Address: 26 Esplanade, Williamstown, Vic

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Revered for its rugged natural splendour and laid-back seaside charm, NSW’s Central Coast has soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a top choice for an affordable slice of weekend escapism for Sydneysiders. Just a short 45-minute drive north of Sydney, it’s the kind of place that, no matter how many times you visit, leaves you with the sense that there’s always more to uncover. But while the ocean pools, bushwalks and beaches have (rightly) taken the spotlight, it’s the Central Coast food offerings which have been quietly simmering in the background.

From fresh-as-it-gets seafood and juicy organic citrus you can pluck yourself, through to regenerative farming and reputable farm-to-fork dining, this coastal gem has become an idyllic foodie mecca. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in grassroots hospitality and gastronomic glory on the NSW Central Coast.

vegetables in a basket at Bells Garden at Bells At Killcare — From picking your own, to farm-to-table, discover the best Central Coast food experiences. (Image: Remy Brand)

Central Coast oyster experiences

From humble grub to opulent delicacy, oysters have ascended into a league of their own. Epicureans are fascinated by them – willing to pay upwards of $35 per dozen (double at some of Sydney’s reputable fine dining restaurants) – and ‘shuck bars’ seem to be popping up at every milestone celebration.

But it’s rare to find places that really draw back the curtain on how they’re farmed and why everyone is mad for these molluscs. The Central Coast, however, is home to several of these venues. With its pristine waters, mild climate and nutrient-rich estuaries, it’s the perfect breeding ground for oysters.

Learn about oyster farming and, importantly, how to shuck them at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. Nestled on the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, Sheridan Beaumont and her team offer a hands-on foodie experience where you can feast on dozens of oysters (white tablecloth and all) while wading through the calm waters. You can even bring your own bottle of bubbles to wash them down.

guests in the water for an experience at Sydney Oyster Farm - Central Coast food — Learn tricks of the trade at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: Remy Brand)

Elevate your oyster knowledge even further by heading north over the Hawkesbury River Bridge to the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed. Tour their scenic oyster leases and saltwater paddocks by boat to uncover the distinct characteristics of the Sydney rock oyster and creamy Pacific oyster. They’ve also partnered with Broken Bay Pearl Farm to offer a one-of-a-kind oyster and pearl farming guided tour, showcasing the Central Coast’s very own pearl oyster, the Broken Bay ‘Akoya’. But if you’re simply in the mood to devour a dozen delectable oysters while soaking in the tranquil river views, pull up a chair at the shed. It’s friendly in every sense of the word: pets, families and BYO welcome.

shucking oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Taste freshly shucked oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: James Horan)

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

While the Central Coast is known for its breathtaking 40 beaches and 80-kilometre coastline, its lush hinterland is equally impressive – abundant with orchards and agriculturally rich farmland. And when it comes to the simple joy of picking your own fruit, the Central Coast is a ripe playground.

Family-owned Meliora Farm at Peats Ridge is an orchard that blends conventional, biodynamic and organic philosophies. Third-generation farmer Tim Kemp and his wife Elise are dedicated to honouring the family legacy by growing a rich variety of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins and avocados. In late May, roam the sustainable and nutrient-dense property during ‘Pick Your Own’ weekends.

Eastcoast Beverages is another bountiful citrus orchard boasting over 60 hectares of fruit. From June you can learn about the cultivation of high-quality ingredients – like lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges – by touring both the farm and factory before setting out and picking your own straight from the source. You can also sample an array of citrus-inspired sweet and savoury treats at their on-site cafe, Bambino’s.

If it’s just juicy oranges you’re after, Cedar Farm in Dooralong is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north of Peats Ridge, it features 15 flourishing orchards and over 3000 orange trees – with take-home bags during the season (from July) at low prices. Not bad for a fruity weekend haul.

woman picking oranges at Oranges at Dooralong — Pick your own citrus fruits on the Central Coast. (Image: James Vodicka)

Organic dining

What makes the Central Coast hinterland so special is the unwavering respect the communities have for their cherished backyard. Locally owned and operated farms are all striving for more sustainable practices and methods to both enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact, each with a heartwarming food philosophy.

The Food Farm in Wyong Creek believes good food is worth both the work and the wait. Devoted to regenerative farming, first-generation ‘farmily’ Tim Eyes and Hannah Greenshields are recognised for their grass-fed, grass-finished beef and pasture-raised, gold medal-winning chickens. With an open gate policy, The Food Farm encourages visitors to swing by and try some of their slow-grown produce at their small ‘honesty’ farm shop. With no staff, you can pick up a few quality cuts of meat and pasteurised eggs, leaving the owing amount in cash or via eftpos.

Keeping the spirit of generational organic farming alive is Fanelli Organics. Nestled in the Central Coast’s scenic and sleepy Mangrove Mountain, founders Eden and Louise Fanelli own over 45 hectares of plentiful farmland and orchards that produce a huge range of organic fruit and vegetables, like purple Dutch carrots, blood oranges, broccoli and Tuscan kale. A true home-grown operation, Fanelli Organics shares its fresh produce with local restaurants and community markets, including the beloved markets at Like Minds Cafe at Avoca Beach every Wednesday afternoon.

farmers holding fresh produce picked at Fanelli Organics — See where your food comes from at Fanelli Organics.

Paddock-to-plate dining

High-quality ingredients go hand in hand with premium dining, and the Central Coast is home to several paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase its diverse and rich agriculture. Paired with warm, grassroots hospitality, there are culinary triumphs, new menus and revered chefs constantly popping up, putting the local dining scene firmly on the map.

Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce. Nestled in thick bushland with wraparound verandahs, floral gardens and an idyllic dam, the gourmet homestead and bakehouse is unlike any restaurant on the Central Coast. Here, head chef Reece Collins and his team serve up an impressive breakfast and lunch menu that oozes rustic charm. Pull up a comfy armchair on the expansive deck, listen to birdsong, and tuck into flavoursome dishes like the farmhouse Benedict with honey-cured ham, lemon myrtle hollandaise and Warrigal gremolata, or the hearty beef brisket pie with confit garlic potato purée and rainbow chard.

woman writing in notebook next to a table of food at Saddles, Central Coast food — Taste country-style cooking at Saddles. (Image: Destination NSW)

Delivering a slice of sophistication and luxury to the shores and bushland of Bouddi Peninsula is Bells at Killcare. One of the few boutique resorts on the Central Coast, it’s known for its premium service and five-star suites, as well as its bountiful kitchen gardens that boast an orchard, olive trees, avocado trees, free-range hens and a honey bee hive.

Cameron Cansdell has returned to Bells at Killcare as head chef, bringing his expertise to the casual yet refined menus that feature a raw bar with Oscietra caviar, freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bugs, all served alongside optional matched wines. Sample some of Australia’s best regional wines and standout dishes, like roasted Wollemi duck with grilled leeks, rocket, grilled grapes and 10-year-aged balsamic, or the shareworthy salt-crusted snapper with herb salad and salsa, before roaming the picturesque gardens, wine in hand.

cocktail at Bells At Killcare — Sample incredible wine, cocktails and dishes at Bells At Killcare. (Image: Nikki To)

Plan your next visit to the delicious Central Coast.

Australia’s 12 best beachfront bars for summer

Sand, sunset and spritz. When it comes to indulging in some summer drinks, it doesn’t get much better than these Australian beach bars.

1. Raes Cellar Bar, Byron Bay NSW

2. Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel, Watsons Bay, NSW

3. Clancy’s Fish Bar City Beach, Perth, WA

4. Burleigh Pavilion, Burleigh Heads, Qld

5. Salt House, Cairns City, Qld

6. Baillie’s Bar, Heron Island, Qld

7. Moseley Beach Club, Glenelg, SA

8. Bacchus Bar, Henley Beach, SA

9. The Darwin Ski Club, Fannie Bay, NT

10. Bomboras Beach Bar, Torquay, Vic

11. Republica, St Kilda, Vic

12. Sebastian, Williamstown, Vic

Something in the future.

Australia’s best coffee revealed – and it isn’t where you think it is

This off-grid Blue Mountains cabin was just crowned Airbnb’s best nature escape

What’s on around Australia in October 2025

Why the Central Coast is a foodie mecca

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Central Coast oyster experiences

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

Organic dining

Paddock-to-plate dining

Sand, sunset and spritz. When it comes to indulging in some summer drinks, it doesn’t get much better than these Australian beach bars.

1. Raes Cellar Bar, Byron Bay NSW

2. Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel, Watsons Bay, NSW

3. Clancy’s Fish Bar City Beach, Perth, WA

4. Burleigh Pavilion, Burleigh Heads, Qld

AI Prompt

5. Salt House, Cairns City, Qld

6. Baillie’s Bar, Heron Island, Qld

7. Moseley Beach Club, Glenelg, SA

8. Bacchus Bar, Henley Beach, SA

9. The Darwin Ski Club, Fannie Bay, NT

10. Bomboras Beach Bar, Torquay, Vic

11. Republica, St Kilda, Vic

12. Sebastian, Williamstown, Vic

Something in the future.

Australia’s best coffee revealed – and it isn’t where you think it is

This off-grid Blue Mountains cabin was just crowned Airbnb’s best nature escape

What’s on around Australia in October 2025

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Central Coast oyster experiences

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

Organic dining

Paddock-to-plate dining