11 Best Coastal Pubs And Bars In Australia

Crack out the sunglasses (and the tinnies) when you pay a visit to Australia’s top beachside pubs and bars.

Did you know: more than 85 per cent of Australians live on its coast?

All that salt air is bound to cause us to work up a thirst. And maybe (just maybe) that’s the reason why Australia has such a magnificent array of waterfront bars and pubs for us lucky types to pick from. But if your policy is less picking / more sipping, we’ve laid out our top picks of beachside bars for you to consider.

1. Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel, Watsons Bay, NSW

Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel is smack-bang on what has to be one of the world’s prettiest pieces of water real estate: Sydney Harbour. Nestled in the heart of Sydney’s eastern suburbs, it has a maritime-themed beach club with enviable rooftop views, best paired with bottomless rose brunches and favourite summer dresses. When the sun comes out, popularity tends to ramp up at this well-known Sydney bar, so chop-chop with any reservations.

Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel is one of the best coastal pubs in Australia — Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel is one of Sydney’s most iconic pubs. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. The Imperial at Clifton, Clifton NSW

Just a few minutes from the Sea Cliff Bridge — a route that is the longer, but more scenically impressive way to start your NSW South Coast trip — you can’t fail to notice The Imperial at Clifton . A clifftop pub on the Grand Pacific Drive with ‘accidentally Wes Anderson ’ vibes, The Imperial dates back to the early 1900s when it served the area’s mining community. Today at the revamped historical pub, you can sip on a watermelon cocktail while looking over the Pacific Ocean, or even order a seafood feast picnic hamper to take away for a closer inspection of the beaches nearby.

Exterior of coastal pub the Imperial at Clifton in Australia — This historical pub is the perfect spot to quench your thirst. (Image: Destination NSW)

3. Tathra Hotel and Motel, Tathra, NSW

The heritage Tathra Hotel is perched up on the headland over the waters of the Sapphire Coast. It dates all the way back to 1888, and is a veritable must-stop if you’re heading to the far south coast of the state, and looking to cool down. Pull up a chair on the prettily iron-lattice deck for those magnificent views, call for a bowl of fresh prawns and one of their own Humpback Brewery tap brews, and you’ve got all the makings of a perfect sunny Saturday.

High shot of the interior of the Tathra Hotel — Cool down at the Tathra Hotel.

4. Wye Beach Hotel, Wye River, VIC

Break up your annual Great Ocean Road pilgrimage with a bite to eat at the Wye Beach Hotel . Overlooking the surrounding town and Wye Beach itself, the pub is close to both the beach and the nearby campgrounds if you want to make a day and night of visiting the area . Indulge in some classic seaside fare with beer-battered fish and chips and a schooner of tap beer, or maybe get a little bit fancy with their seared tuna salade nicoise and freshly seared crab on sourdough.

Couple having a schooner each at the Wye Beach Hotel on the Great Ocean Road — Stop by the Wye Beach Hotel on your Great Ocean Road road trip.

5. Hotel Sorrento, Sorrento, VIC

Spending a long weekend escaping the city down on the Mornington Peninsula? Looking down on Port Phillip Bay, Hotel Sorrento has been entertaining Melbournians on a weekender since 1872, when it was founded. Today, its Dining Room serves up classic pub meals, as well as more diverse fare, like gooey burrata with juicy stone fruit or Cantonese cuisine at the Hong Kong sixties-style Shihuishi in what was once the hotel ballroom. If you’re all about those views, Salt, The Lawn and The Rooftop make up the property’s outdoor bars.

Girls having a wine and a laugh at the Hotel Sorrento — Enjoy some modern dishes at this historic pub.

6. Burleigh Pavilion, Burleigh Heads, QLD

Soak up that iridescent Gold Coast lifestyle at the Burleigh Pavilion. Whether you’re opting for the casual coastal pavilion experience munching on woodfired pizzas with views of the striking Gold Coast skyline and impeccable surf at the Pavilion itself, or doing Grey Goose vodka and caviar bumps at The Tropic restaurant, ‘The Pav’ aims to impress its clientele . Simply settle down into the Burleigh’s pastel-coloured ambience for your beachside lunch, and let the DJ spin the perfect soundtrack to your sunny afternoon.

Burleigh Pavilion with the beach in shot — Burleigh is a Gold Coast institution. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

7. The Moseley Beach Club, Glenelg, SA

Forget what you’ve heard: it’s not all about the vineyards in Adelaide. With crystal-clear waters and empty shores, its beaches are some of the state’s finest drops. Hop on the tram from the Adelaide CBD, and you’ll soon find yourself in Glenelg — one of SA’s most popular beaches — and The Moseley Beach Club . A Greek island-style beach club on the white sands of Glenelg in summer, The Moseley’s deck chairs, beach umbrellas and live music and DJs will soon have you begging to order one of their frozen Santorini Sunset cocktails. Yamas to that!

The Moseley Beach Club is a coastal pub in Glenelg South Australia — Nothing better than a summer afternoon at The Moseley. (Image: Nathan Godwin)

8. The Darwin Ski Club, Fannie Bay, NT

No, there’s been no freak snow reported up in tropical Darwin (at least, not that we’ve heard). The Darwin Ski Club is actually named for the water skiing done here, so no peach schnapps just yet. But what you will find at this well-known Darwinian establishment is the Epikur restaurant bistro, serving up local Darwinian flavours, as well as live music at The Bali Bar overlooking the Darwin Harbour. This, plus the views over the Timor Sea, has made The Ski Club one of the most relaxing places in the capital to watch the sunset.

Sunset from Darwin Ski Club one of the best coastal pubs in Northern Territory — The sunset doesn’t get much better than this. (Image: Tourism Australia/Allan Dixon)

9. Crab Claw Island Resort, Bynoe, NT

If you have always been a fan of a quiet beer, look no further: one popular way to get to this extremely remote bar is actually by helicopter. The Crab Claw Island Resort in the Northern Territory is about 15 minutes by air or about 90 minutes by car from Darwin and makes for a beautiful location to get away from the incessant buzz of modern life for a few days. Try your hand at fishing, mud crabbing, turtle-spotting and other unique activities available at this coastal retreat, then take a breather at The Crab Claw bar and restaurant, down at the beach.

Men enjoying a beer at Crab Claw Island Resort coastal pub — Enjoy your beer in peace at Crab Claw Island Resort. (Image: Tourism NT/Helen Orr)

10. Indigo Oscar at Indiana Cottesloe Beach, Cottesloe Beach, WA

A special pop-up bar, the Indigo Oscar has taken over a space in the Indiana Cottesloe Beach ahead of renovations of the iconic beachside pavilion. Until then, this fresher-than-fresh eatery is giving the Perth beachside suburb a touch of Latin American-inspired vibrance with its stunning seafood dishes and smoky cocktails. Try out the avocado arepas, with zucchini pickles and green chilli, the swordfish ceviche and their classic margaritas, to fully lean into those South and Central American vibes.

Exterior of Indigo Oscar at Cottesloe Beach pub — This special pop-up bar is bringing the vibes to Cottesloe Beach.

11. The Story Bar at MACq 01 Hotel, Hobart, TAS

Down here for a long winter’s night, or booked in for a long lunch on a sun-drenched day? Either way, the Story Bar at MACq 01 Hotel is serving up those Port of Hobart views and a smokescreen of atmosphere to match. Whether it’s the sun or city lights that are twinkling on the water, the glamorous Hobart bar will pull you in with its display of memorabilia from Tasmania’s heritage, and the curiosity-inducing newspapers that line the walls, telling tales of the island state’s past. Shake it up — or at least ask the bartender to — with a visit to the hotel’s other drinking hole, the ancient artefact-themed Evolve Spirits Bar.

Couple having a drink at The Story Bar at MACq 01 Hotel in Hobart — The Story Bar at MACq 01 Hotel is serving up those Port of Hobart views.

Feast your way through Sun Country on the Murray – a beautiful and bountiful region in northern Victoria with gourmet delights galore.

Nestled on the lands of the Yorta Yorta People along the mighty Murray River, Sun Country is a truly extraordinary place. The northern Victorian enclave is a tapestry of meandering waterways, ancient forests, sandy beaches, enchanting country towns and an easy way of life.

Beyond its landscapes and bucolic charm, Sun Country on the Murray is a culinary paradise: think farm-fresh produce, family-run wineries and no shortage of places to feast.

If you’re a serious foodie or simply epicurious, here’s your ultimate guide to a gourmand Murray River getaway.

The Murray Farm Gate Trail

The self-guided Murray Gate Farm Trail lets you sample the area’s best produce while immersing yourself in the lush Goulburn and Murray Valleys. The trail has something to suit every palate and pace, but there are a few notable highlights.

1. Rich Glen

Rich Glen Provedore and Rich Glen Skin & Beauty — Stock up at Rich Glen. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Rich Glen is renowned for its award-winning olive oils. Everything is grown and created on the family farm in Yarrawonga, the results of which you can visit at Rich Glen Provedore – a treasure trove of gourmet foods, including that signature olive oil. Or explore Rich Glen Skin & Beauty, which stocks lush handmade skincare and wellness products.

2. How Now Dairy

A charming micro-farm producing ethical dairy, How Now Dairy , lets its baby calves remain with their mothers and its cows roam on rolling pesticide-free pastures. Try a selection of cheeses that do good and taste good, including a fantastic punchy blue, and velvety milk with a thick, creamy top.

3. Cactus Country

Cactus Country in the murray — Stop into Cactus Country. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Cactus Country is a 12-acre stretch of desert-like garden containing cacti of all shapes, sizes and colours. Naturally, it makes the most of its bounty at the on-site bar and restaurant, with a cactus-infused dessert menu alongside a vibrant line-up of Mexican snacks and mains.

4. The Olde Creamery

The Olde Creamery is a local icon, a former hobby farm that has flourished into a thriving purveyor of flowers and foods. The elderflower cordial and bramble gin and tonic jam are must-tries, and make for tasty mementoes of your trip.

Wineries, breweries and distilleries

The region’s sunny climate and rich soils make it a prime place for viticulture. If wine isn’t your thing, you’ll also find boutique breweries and distilleries producing top-notch beers and spirits.

1. Squires Winery

a couple sitting at the bar at squire's winery, sun country on the murray — Pop in for a tasting. (Image: Visit Victoria)

With its idyllic positioning on the Ovens River, Squires Winery is a lovely setting for a long, leisurely lunch or tasting. Enjoy a riverside sip of prosecco, rosé or cab sauv, complemented by seasonal bites and a backdrop of towering gum trees.

2. Cape Horn Vineyard

Cape Horn is one of the region’s most established vineyards. Its sparkling durif/shiraz is a crowd favourite and well worth trying on your foodie tour, especially if it’s served with one of the winery’s delicious wood-fired pizzas.

3. Byramine Homestead & Brewery

A top pick among beer, cider and history enthusiasts, Byramine serves a rotation of brews made on-site in the historic homestead. Wander through the venue and learn about its colonial past before sitting down to a freshly made Ploughman’s and cold local ale.

4. Monichino Wines

Monichino is a slice of la dolce vita in northern Victoria, producing classic Italian varietals like pinot grigio and aromatica. Drop by for a tasting at the cellar door (open weekends or by appointment) and explore everything from crisp whites to robust fortified wines, or pack a picnic and savour your glass in the picturesque gardens.

5. Corowa Distilling Co

Corowa Distilling Co crafts an incredible variety of single-malt and blended whiskies, and is a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike. Stop in for a tasting flight in the whisky room, or a hearty breakfast or lunch paired with a wee dram.

Farm-to-table dining

If you’ve got the time to linger over a gourmet spread, Sun Country on the Murray has an abundance of outstanding restaurants and cafes.

1. O’Reilly’s Food and Wine

O’Reilly’s feels much like stepping into a good friend’s home, albeit with a refined twist. The menu changes weekly and rotates through a selection of comforting yet elevated dishes – think lamb cottage pie, French-style moussaka, a perennially popular open steak sandwich and cakes that change flavours weekly.

2. Stock and Barrel

a couple eating at Stock and Barrel victoria — Soak in views of Lake Mulwala. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Tucked inside The Sebel Yarrawonga hotel, overlooking sparkling Lake Mulwala, Stock and Barrel does pub classics with a Sun Country spin. Order a perfectly seared steak and triple-cooked potatoes alongside a freshly poured pint, or try a regional highlight: local produce features abundantly across Stock and Barrel’s dishes.

3. The Bend

With spacious decks and panoramic views of the Murray, The Bend is ideal for a sun-soaked long lunch. Order a round of moreish share plates (like baja fish tacos and a warm-from-the-oven brioche loaf stuffed with cream cheese and herbs) or a signature cocktail and indulgent main – we can’t go past the slow-braised wagyu brisket.

4. Blacksmith Provedore

If you’re after a slick yet relaxed dining destination, head to Blacksmith Provedore . Perched right next to Lake Mulwala, the venue is airy and elegant, with a minimalist-chic design. The pizzas are seriously good too, made with 72-hour fermented dough and toppings sourced from Italy’s finest producers.

5. Broken Willow

As soon as you enter Broken Willow ’s front doors, you’re greeted with genuine hospitality and a classic bistro menu that has something for everyone: succulent grilled meats, parmas and schnitzels, juicy burgers, and international dishes ranging from weekly curry and stir-fry specials to zippy banh mi.

While you’re there

Thompson Beach in sun country on the murray — Discover plenty to do between meals. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Got a few hours to spare? Make the most of your trip by exploring the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of your riverside surroundings.

Barmah National Park is a sanctuary of walks through majestic river red gums and serene wetlands. Here, a seat on board a Kingfisher River Cruise offers a different Murray experience, letting you see the vast river from the perspective of the Yorta Yorta peoples.

If you’re a watersport enthusiast, Lake Mulwala in Yarrawonga is a favourite for canoeing, cruising, fishing, kayaking and water skiing. While the silo murals at Katamatite, St James, Tungamah and more recently Waaia are essential stops in Victoria’s famed Silo Art Trail .

In Cobram Barooga, make sure to visit Thompson’s Beach, the largest inland beach in the southern hemisphere. Nearby, the Bullanginya Dreaming project is an award-winning 1.8km immersive art experience that immerses you in light and sound to tell a rich story of country, culture and connection.

Start planning a tasty getaway to Sun Country on The Murray at suncountryonthemurray.com.au.

11 best coastal pubs and bars in Australia