NEW ZEALAND GOOD FOOD GUIDE

Australia’s Best Coastal Restaurants: Dine by the Sea from Louth Island to the Whitsundays


Australia’s coastline is dotted with dining destinations that capture the beauty, bounty and spirit of the sea. From South Australia’s remote islands to Queensland’s tropical shores, these restaurants celebrate the intimate connection between food and place.

Each offers more than a meal — they deliver an experience shaped by ocean vistas, fresh local produce and a deep respect for nature’s rhythm.
Whether it’s Rumi on Louth’s island serenity, Garfish’s harbour charm, The Long Pavilion’s luxury, Harbourfront’s seaside elegance or Bills Fishhouse’s laid-back warmth, these coastal venues embody Australia’s love affair with the water’s edge.


Rumi on Louth is a coastal dining destination set on pristine Louth Island off South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula. Surrounded by the glistening waters of Spencer Gulf, the restaurant celebrates the region’s natural abundance with a menu inspired by land and sea. Guests dine against a backdrop of rugged cliffs and sweeping ocean views, where each dish reflects the island’s wild, unspoiled beauty.
 
Australia’s Best Coastal Restaurants: Dine by the Sea from Louth Island to the Whitsundays

Fresh local produce, seafood caught nearby and thoughtfully paired flavours create a sensory experience that captures the spirit of the coast. At Rumi on Louth, food, nature and place come together in perfect, unforgettable harmony.


Garfish in Manly captures the essence of coastal dining with its prime waterfront location overlooking the sparkling waters of Manly Cove. The restaurant’s airy, contemporary design mirrors the relaxed sophistication of its seaside surroundings. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame sweeping ocean views, creating an inviting atmosphere that celebrates its maritime setting.
 
Australia’s Best Coastal Restaurants: Dine by the Sea from Louth Island to the Whitsundays

Fresh sea breezes, the gentle sound of waves and the vibrant harbour activity provide a serene backdrop for a memorable dining experience. With an emphasis on fresh seafood and refined simplicity, Garfish embodies the charm and vitality of Manly’s coastal lifestyle, blending Modern Australian cuisine with breathtaking natural beauty.


The Long Pavilion at qualia on Hamilton Island epitomises luxury within an exquisite coastal setting overlooking the Coral Sea. Perched high above the Whitsundays, it offers panoramic views across turquoise waters and lush island landscapes. The open-air design blurs the line between indoors and outdoors, allowing the sea breeze and tropical light to flow through. 
 
Australia’s Best Coastal Restaurants: Dine by the Sea from Louth Island to the Whitsundays

Natural materials and elegant minimalism reflect the surrounding environment, creating an atmosphere of calm sophistication. As the heart of qualia, The Long Pavilion captures the serene beauty of its island location, where fine dining meets breathtaking ocean vistas in perfect harmony with nature.


Harbourfront Restaurant in Wollongong offers an elegant coastal dining experience set against the stunning backdrop of Wollongong Harbour. Nestled on the water’s edge, it provides sweeping views of fishing boats, the ocean horizon and the iconic lighthouse. Large windows and a contemporary interior allow guests to soak in the beauty of the coastline, with natural light dancing across the space.
 
Australia’s Best Coastal Restaurants: Dine by the Sea from Louth Island to the Whitsundays

The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, celebrating the region’s seaside charm. Surrounded by the sights and sounds of the ocean, Harbourfront captures the essence of coastal dining, where fresh sea air and tranquil waters create a truly memorable experience.


Bills Fishhouse + Bar in Port Macquarie perfectly captures the relaxed sophistication of Australia’s east coast. Located just moments from the water, it embodies the charm of coastal dining with its breezy, contemporary design and welcoming atmosphere. Light timber accents and open spaces echo the natural beauty of the nearby beaches and Hastings River.
 
Australia’s Best Coastal Restaurants: Dine by the Sea from Louth Island to the Whitsundays

The restaurant celebrates the region’s abundance of fresh seafood and local produce, pairing vibrant flavours with a laid-back seaside spirit. With the ocean as its inspiration, Bills Fishhouse + Bar offers an experience that blends Modern Australian style with the easy rhythm of coastal living.

Featured Locations

Modern Australian    $$$$$

Rumi on Louth

Experience fine dining from bounty caught outside the door for the epitome of wild indulgence at Rumi on Louth’s Samphire restaurant on Louth Island. A unique menu celebrates the bountiful local se...

Seafood    $$$$$

Harbourfront Restaurant

Boasting sweeping views across Wollongong Harbour, tri-level Harbourfront Restaurant on Endeavour Drive is stunning both night and day. Breezy outdoor decks and floor-to-ceiling windows make the mo...

Modern Australian    $$$$$

The Long Pavilion at qualia

Take in mesmerising views over the Whitsundays at The Long Pavilion at qualia on Whitsunday Boulevard on Hamilton Island. Delve into a tropical breakfast at this stunning dining destination, enjoy ...

Seafood    $$$$$

Bills Fishhouse + Bar

Primely positioned in Port Macquarie’s Clarence House, Bills Fishhouse + Bar dons a casual urbanity, which echoes throughout the well-designed space. Modern simplicity best describes this eatery an...

Seafood    $$$$$

Garfish Manly

Manly Wharf and Harbour serve as a breathtaking backdrop to Garfish Manly’s refined yet easy-going waterfront dining on East Esplanade. Inside, the sophisticated décor and gracious service foster a...

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