Last updated September 2020
There’s nothing more relaxing than gazing out over the water, while enjoying a glass of South Australian wine, a refreshing cocktail, or one of our many craft beers.
Hell, we could be drinking a basic tinnie and still enjoy ourselves if the outlook was right, so it’s little wonder that South Australians flock to the water when it’s time to dine, or enjoy a cheeky bevvy or two.
While most of our waterfront venues are beachside, there’s a few notable joints along the Torrens, West Lakes, and even one or two further out. We’re sure there’s other great places too – so feel free to shoot us an email and give us your own suggestions!
SEASIDE
West – Henley Square, Henley Beach
While it’s not technically waterfront, West is still a rooftop bar that has water views, so we figure that still counts. It’s also brand new, serves up fabulous cocktails, and delivers lashings of summer vibes.
The Marina Pier, Glenelg Beach
One of the premiere locations to wine and dine waterfront style, the Marina Pier in Glenelg hosts a variety of restaurants with gorgeous views. These include Sammy’s on the Marina, The Wharf restaurant, Zucca Greek Mezze and more.
The Oyster Bar – The Marina Pier, Glenelg Beach
One of the most popular destinations in the, above mentioned, Marina Pier. The Oyster Bar offers some of South Australia’s finest oysters complemented perfectly by wine from their extensive wine menu. Alongside a stunning view.
Luciano’s – The Marina Pier, Glenelg Beach
The Marina Pier’s newest additioon, Luciano’s is grandiose yet welcoming, with glowing lights complete with cobbled walls, tuscan pinks, and an Italian-inspired menu. Oh, and a spectacular view of the glimmering ocean.
Oceanique, West Beach
This newly established bar and restaurant boasts some of the best views of West Beach. With an expansive verandah and a huge balcony, you’ll see as far down as Glenelg and up to Henley. The food is simple, fresh and just done right. They’ve got a mean prawn and chilli linguini to try.
Seamore’s, Henley Beach
Formerly Henley Kiosk, and more recently Sandbar, the building Seamore’s is housed in has been a Henley Square cornerstone for many years. It’s eclectic and unique, drawing inspiration from the heritage of the site and community. It features an array of private dining areas, large booth seating and stunning live plants throughout (plus fitting a whopping 260 people).
Stella – Henley Square, Henley Beach
A dining experience for the eyes because a sunset from Stella is not to be missed. Their new menu has the range of seafood treats as well as share plates and a mean gnocchi with porcini mushroom sauce.
Star of Greece – 1 The Esplanade, Port Willunga
With probably the best waterfront views in Adelaide, the Star of Greece is also one of Adelaide’s most coveted dining experiences. With 5-star hospitality, food, and views. Star of Greece guests enjoy Mediterranean style cuisine with plenty of seafood options. The Star of Greece Kiosk, nestled in to the back side of the building, is equally popular, proving a great take away Summer option giving visitors on the move. Kiosk is open from 9am-4pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
SeaSalt – Henley Square, Henley Beach
Sitting underneath Melt in Henley Square is this oysters and cocktail destination. Every summer, this spot turns into a haven for groups wanting a beach outing. Their menu serves a range of new cocktails and food, styled to match a sun-kissed mood. Champagne based drinks and Aperol cocktails are a hit, it’ll get your girl gang head over heels.
Palais – Semaphore Beach
While this is more of a pub, you can still grab a meal here while you’re overlooking the ocean. In fact, it’s a great one for functions with anything from 60 people to 300 fitting in their lounge, ballroom or deck.
(Only the beach bar downstairs is open right now, with food available from 11:30 am – 8 pm)
Moseley Beach Club – Glenelg Beach
Adelaide’s hottest beachfront bar, the Moseley Beach Club is Australia’s first proper beach club, and is actually set up on the sand. Complete with kabanas, table service and festoon lighting, you’ll feel like you’re in Europe in no time.
(Beach club is currently closed and will reopen in Summer. In the meantime visit the Moseley on Jetty Road)
Melt – Henley Square, Henley Beach
With great glass frontage out on to the sea, and amazing views of Henley Jetty, this easy dining option gives diners the option to enjoy some great gourmet pizzas and small dishes for sharing. The wine list and staff’s knowledge of the drinks menu is fantastic. If the weather is nice, head outside on to the side deck, which also offers water views.
Little Shoo – Henley Square, Henley Beach
This Adelaide venue with water views is DIVINE. It has a great deck out the front, which gives you a fantastic outlook over the ocean, but get in early, as you can’t book on the deck. The inside of the venue is gorgeous though, so it’s not all bad if you miss out. Make sure to try their new spring menu!
Joe’s Kiosk – Esplanade, Henley Beach
As a popular coffee joint and breakfast spot for early risers, this iconic destination on the water, just before you hit Henley Square, this hotspot has some of the best views of the water.
Estia – Henley Square, Henley Beach
This Greek taste sensation has been a staple on the beachside food scene for years. While you won’t get water views inside, grab a table outside for views of the sea, Henley Jetty, Henley Square, and the best sunsets over the water that Adelaide has to offer.
Bacchus – Henley Square, Henley Beach
Live bands, cold beers and tapas platters give punters the perfect combo as they soak in the sunshine, Henley Square action, and more at Bacchus Bar. There’s a retractable sunshade for the hotter days which works well, and treats for your fur babies if you bring them along.
(Currently closed for renovations, Bacchus will reopen in September 2020)
Hortas – Port Noarlunga
Set on the beach front at Port Noarlunga, this stunning restaurant & cafe sources the best local produce to create both contemporary Australian and Portuguese inspired dishes. It holds an award for being the 2nd best seafood restaurant in Australia and has been the best in Adelaide for three years in a row! Seafood lovers, get in now.
LAKES & RIVERS
(A)Lure Champagne & Seafood Bar, Adelaide Riverbank
Situated on the Torrens, underneath the Festival Centre, (A)Lure is a perfect example of two varying venue models coming together to create an intriguing new space.
On one hand, you can expect platters of seafood featuring fresh Coffin Bay oysters, buckets of Spencer Gulf king prawns and more. Pol Roger, Petaluma Croser and Jansz Premium Cuvée are just a few options in a drinks list that also boasts a variety of South Australian reds and whites.
(A(lure) champagne & seafood bar is temporarily closed at the moment)
Malt Shovel Taphouse, Adelaide Riverbank
Another new venue for Adelaide, this venue is in prime position on the Torrens. Situated right alongside the footbridge, it offers unparalleled views of Adelaide Oval, the river, and Elder Park. It’s also ridiculously convenient as a pre/post drinks venue if you’re going to the Adelaide Festival Centre, or any events happening on the riverbank.
Red Ochre Grill, Adelaide Riverbank
Tucked away on the edge of the North Adelaide Golf Course, the Red Ochre Grill serves up a delicious menu of Aussie meats (Kangaroo, Emu, Crocodile) alongside more traditional dishes. With incredible views across the Torrens and over the city, it’s a perfect spot to enjoy the best that Adelaide has to offer. Red Ochre is only offering set menus as of now, perfect for larger groups and bookings.
Homeground, Adelaide Riverbank
With an assortment of options on offer, from xx to xx, Homeground caters to event-goers who are looking for an easy meal with a great view of the Torrens and Adelaide Oval. Situated next to Regattas and underneath the Adelaide Convention Centre, it makes the most of its incredible outlook over the water.
Regattas, Adelaide Riverbank
With more outdoor dining space than pretty much anywhere waterfront in Adelaide, Regattas is nestled at the back of the Adelaide Convention Centre and offers unobstructed views of the Torrens. It’s not only a great brunch location, it’s perfect for cocktails, wine with your sunset, or dinner before heading to the theatre.
Jolleys Boathouse
An Adelaide institution, Jolleys Boathouse serves up incredible food and is always good for an anniversary meal, function, or just an opportunity to spoil yourself. It’s right next to the King William bridge, and is walking distance to the city, or North Adelaide.
(Jolleys is temporarily closed for renovations until October 2020)
K1 By Geoff Hardy, Adelaide Hills
It’s a bit of a drive out of Adelaide, but boy is it worth the trip. K1 By Geoff Hardy offers one of the most unique function venues in SA. With views of the lake and vineyards, any function you have here is bound to be memorable. Grazing items are available to be paired up with your favourite wines, but who needs food when you’re sipping wine by a lakeside?
The Watershed, Mawson Lakes
A cafe and function centre with an expansive deck that overlooks the tranquil Greenfield wetlands. It’s a boutique venue thats mostly used for events, launches or a picturesque wedding but their cafe also produces some great treats. One of the best north-side experiences.
If you know about another killer view that deserves to be in this guide then email us at [email protected]
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