Nothing beats a great view. And no, I’m not talking about the cutie with a booty by the bar or you when you’re absolutely day wasted. I’m talking about that sand sea and surf landscape view as you relax on a Saturday afternoon. We’ve done the legwork and rounded up the best beach front bars in Sydney for you so that all you have to do is pick one and rock up.
Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel
Watson's Bay
Sail away and enjoy the day at the Beach Club at Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel. Located opposite the beach and ferry terminal, it’s the perfect excuse to ditch the car and catch a ferry while you day drink the day away. Their minimalistic beach side décor is perfectly set against the water views, mint green walls and blue and white striped umbrellas. You’ll feel like you’re along the Italian coast as you sip wine that’s been nationally grown and produced. Watsons Bay boasts a menu for all meals of the day, featuring house made granola, salmon ceviche, spicy chicken wings and soft shell crab sliders. Pair your meal with one of their signature cocktails, like their grapefruit margarita served with Don Julio tequila and Cointreau. With overnight accommodation available, you won’t have to hold back or leave.
The Bucket List
Bondi Beach
If you’re not quite a fan of the beach or sand, you can still enjoy the famous Bondi views at The Bucket List. Located within mere metres of Bondi Beach, the Bucket List boasts casual chic with their brightly coloured interior. From the outdoor area to the warm fireplace, you’ll be able to enjoy local produce and sustainable seafood as prepared by Ready Steaky Cook chef, Tom Walton. Enjoy freshly shucked oysters and ready to peel prawns, or even a Chipotle fish taco and Poblano pork burger. With two bars, you’ll definitely be able to Jam Out with Jimmy Hendrix—Pimms, cucumber, strawberry puree and ginger ale and totally Get Jolly Rogered—gin, elderflower, cucumber and lemon with soda water.
Manly Wine
Manly
Whether you’re looking for a breakfast feed with great coffee or a long lunch spot that’ll accommodate you for dinner also, Manly Wine has something for everyone at all times of the day. Situated along the promenade across Manly Beach, Manly Wine brings you seafood, sunshine and sand all in one place. The casual and cool atmosphere meets quirky and imaginative is reflected in their cocktail and alcohol menu. Their salted caramel espresso martini is a much try, and if a glass just isn’t enough, pitchers of margaritas and sangria are also available alongside their selection of wine. With cracked blue swimmer crab, cucumber, fennel and Sriracha aioli and chilli caramel chicken lollipops with papaya slaw and crushed peanuts, there’s plenty of food options to keep your stomach at bay.
Coogee Pavilion
Coogee
A member of the Merivale family, Coogee Pavilion will please just like the rest of the family. Whether you’re catching up over coffee and drinks or throwing a beachside bash, Coogee Pavilion has got plenty to offer (besides the view). Their minimalistic nautical inspired décor is picturesque alongside Coogee beach, and with their range of Japanese inspired and Mediterranean inspired dishes, there’s plenty of reasons to stay for all day. There’s kingfish with black fungus, Szechuan-ginger vinegar and cucumber sashimi or melon with dried Prosciutto and shaved Venetian cheese and sherry vinegar. The menu also features Bundaberg sweet bugs roasted in garlic butter and fresh curry leaf and chilli oil and even grilled Asado short ribs. With a wood fire pizza oven also on site, there’s plenty of drink options to pair your meal with. From Love Juice to Will & Co coffee or simply a Wimbledon inspired cocktail boasting Absolut, strawberries, black raspberries, cranberry and almond.
Manly Wharf Hotel
Manly
The jetty bar with their yellow and white striped umbrellas is placed along Manly Wharf. Their minimalistic inspired fit out allows the food and drinks to shine, as well as the on-site DJs. Whether you’re after a Mojito or just a good old glass of beer, Manly Wharf Hotel has got you covered for long lunches or casual Saturday dinners. Offering designer salads for those feeling a little fancy, and wedges and nachos for the simple folk, there’s plenty on offer at this cracking Sydney beach-front bar. The menu also features Ora king salmon with potato gnocchi and goats’ cheese cream with asparagus and walnuts and a tiger prawn and steak combo. Daily specials are also on offer and plenty of sweet options for those who just aren’t satisfied yet.
Daniel San
Manly
Beachside bars aren’t normally associated with Japanese dining, yet Daniel San is definitely a Sydney bar to be seen at. Their Tokyo karaoke bar inspired venue is bright and animated, with a contrasting beachside view. Their variety of robata grill options and fresh sashimi and sushi is paired alongside pork buns and popcorn shrimp salad. Their cocktail and wine options are an explosive pairing much like the characters on the menu and bright neon lights. Grab your Miyagi Mule and scoff down that Korean fried chicken.
The Collaroy
Collaroy
Located in the Northern Beaches right along Collaroy beach, The Collaroy Hotel has got the sand sea and surf atmosphere down pat. With the sand right below you, the colourful maritime themed beachfront bar is the place to relax and enjoy the view. Their kingfish ceviche with avocado, jalapenos, pink grapefruit and corn chips is a crowd pleaser, much like their seared scallops with smoked corn puree. The waffles fries are a must try and for those wanting a little more, there’s Tijuana street corn served with Manchego cheese and chipotle mayo. Pair your meal with an option from their drinks menu, whether it be Riesling or a Baileys on ice. We don’t judge.
Need more things to do in Sydney? Check out Sydney's Best Kept Secret Beaches.
Image credit: Daniel San
