Top Beachfront Restaurants in New South Wales

The whole waterfront dining thing is such a little escape. From salty air from the ocean to the crackling sound of waves and the golden lighting set by the coastline, it's just a sensory experience before the first morsel lands on the table.- With an extended coastline of more than 2,000 km, New South Wales, in the meantime, is where a handful of Australia's finest beachfront restaurants are located.

Oysters with a view, wood-fired food on the sand, or a chilled glass of rosé with the sunset? NSW has it all. These beachfront joints, from fancy coastal dining rooms to much more casual ones where your toes can almost be in the surf, serve not only food but ambience, warmth, and a reminder of why we all adore the sea.

The Boathouse Group: A Coastal Favourite

Boathouse Group

When locals talk about beachfront dining, the Boathouse name often comes up first—and with good reason. Known for its iconic beach-shack aesthetic and fresh, relaxed menus, the Boathouse Group has carved out a beloved spot in the hearts of Sydneysiders and coastal travellers alike.

At Palm Beach, you'll find the original Boathouse café perched right on the jetty, serving generous brunches, seafood-heavy lunches, and some of the best coffee with a sea breeze. Down the coast, Balmoral's Boathouse brings the same magic, with views over the calm harbour waters and a menu built around seasonal produce and local suppliers.

The vibe is always easygoing. It's the kind of place where people arrive barefoot from the beach or still damp from a quick swim. No need for formality—just good food, good company, and a view you'll remember long after the last bite.

Icebergs Dining Room and Bar: Bondi with a View

Perched above the southern end of Bondi Beach, Icebergs is arguably one of Australia's most recognisable restaurants. Its clean lines, sweeping glass windows, and modern Italian menu make it a favourite for celebrations, romantic dinners, or just those "treat yourself" moments.

But what truly sets it apart is the view. From almost any seat in the house, you get uninterrupted views of the turquoise water below and surfers catching waves just metres away. It's glamorous without being too precious—there's an energy here that feels both sophisticated and unmistakably Australian.

Expect dishes like Sydney rock oysters, handmade pasta, and perfectly grilled seafood paired with an award-winning wine list and attentive service that still manages to feel laid-back.

The Surf Club Scene: Byron Bay to Coffs Harbour

Surf Club

Not every beachfront restaurant needs polished cutlery and fine linens. Across NSW, local surf clubs and casual beachfront bistros serve up some of the most authentic, unpretentious food you'll find—with unbeatable views and often lower price tags.

Byron Bay's Beach Byron Bay is a perfect example. Right on Clarkes Beach, it blends contemporary Australian flavours with a breezy, barefoot charm. It's the kind of place where locals bring out-of-towners to show off their corner of paradise.

Further south in Coffs Harbour, the Surf Club Restaurant & Bar offers classic coastal dishes—think fish and chips, burgers, and hearty breakfasts—all steps from the sand. There's a strong community vibe, plenty of outdoor seating, and an honest simplicity that makes it feel like home.

Rick Stein at Bannisters: A Seafood Destination

The Rick Stein restaurant was famous among seafood purists and was situated in Mollymook, South Coast of New South Wales. An all-season philosophy under the restaurant was to source from local fishermen, cook well, and label it among the most premium seafood eateries on the coast. Stein romanticised Australian products with hot prawn salads, the famous fish curry, and BBQ lobsters. While Miami is set on the table, the ocean view of the Pacific serves a splendid chill vibe, which is not bad at all. This is considered a casual, walk-in spot for a long and lovely lunch.

Conclusion

The ingathering around New South Wales coast is abundant with multitudinous activities; yet, casino moments happen, for instance, sitting down to a meal with the ocean bathing you in front of your eyes. Something grounding is there. Something steeped in timelessness. Maybe it's the sea air amplifying the zest for a meal, or everything seems to be slowing down when one draws near to the shore.

Beachfront dining in NSW is faster than food on a plate. It is about place and presence and being able to enjoy merely being by the water. So, in those moments when the craving for an ocean view comes in, right about here and there between Byron and Mollymook will be the place.

Explore More