Coffee By the Sea

Updated September 3rd, 2021

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Enjoy your latte with a serve of sparkling ocean. Here are the cafes in Sydney set just near the water.

NSW is currently in lockdown due to Covid-19. Residents of Greater Sydney aren't permitted to travel more than five kilometres from their homes, or outside their local government areas, for exercise or recreation. Hospitality businesses are open for takeaway only.

  • A low-key cafe with pool and ocean views and a small menu, where standard coffees are double-shot.

  • It's not by the sea, but this spot has near-unparalleled views of Sydney Harbour.

  • Serving a classic brunch menu with lounges by the sea.

  • The view out across the aqua blue of Freshwater beach is a winner no matter the time of year.

  • A sister of Palm Beach's Boathouse cafe; the views here are just as good.

  • Stand-up paddleboarding, jugs of cocktails, rosé on tap and views for days. And it's all set right on the water.

  • A family-friendly spot that’s been looking after locals since 1997. The views might not be stellar, but this one of the best (and most lowkey) coffees you can get this close to Bondi Beach.

  • So close to the water you can virtually swim to it.

  • A cosy cafe churning out hot coffee and eggs. This is another one of Bondi's less hectic cafes – even though it's on Campbell Parade, there's a sense of calm here/

  • Go for lunch in the outdoor area, next to the blue-and-white boatshed.

  • This spot is right on Avoca Beach. Seriously, if you got any closer you'd have wet feet. The coffee and food – by a hospo veteran – is just as nice as the view.

  • The Bird & Bear group has applied its tried and true formula here to Royal Australian Navy Sailing Association’s (Ransa) boatshed – fully unlocking the space’s potential and the stunning harbour vistas that come with it. Visit for all day-coffee and breakfasts and lunches that cover all bases (yes, fish’n’chips is a menu mainstay).

  • This heritage-listed waterfront venue serves up French bistro classics. Grab a coffee from the quaint waterside kiosk.

  • This little cafe in the South Curl Curl Surf Life Saving Club is serving coffee right on the sand.

  • Sweet Swedish pastries perfect for a picnic on the beach.

  • A furniture store and cafe just off Mona Vale Beach.

  • Relaxed beachside dining at its best.