Sip wine, beer, or a spritz by the water and let the views do the talking.
From Coogee’s shoreline to Scarborough’s escarpment, Sydney’s pubs know how to set the scene.
Think fresh eats, flowing drinks, and that endless holiday vibe. Here’s your guide to the city’s best waterside pubs and bars in Sydney.
Coogee Pavilion
It’s easy to see why The Pav lands on every “best pubs with a view” list, locals love it for its all-in-one vibe. Whether it’s oysters by the sea downstairs, cocktails with a view in the middle, or rooftop drinks with that unbeatable ocean backdrop, Coogee Pavilion nails every occasion. Few spots capture Sydney’s coastal spirit quite like this. Find more about Coogee Pavilion here.
It is located in Ground Floor, 169 Dolphin St, Coogee NSW 2034
The Squire’s Landing, The Rocks
With one of the best views in Sydney, The Squire’s Landing is the ultimate waterside beer garden. As James Squire’s flagship brewhouse, this scenic spot is the perfect venue to sip delicious brews and chow down on tasty pub eats. Find out more here.
It is located in Northern end of the Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay W, The Rocks NSW 2000
Scarborough Hotel
The Scarborough Hotel earns its spot among the top pubs with a view because it feels like a true escape. Locals love it for the clifftop garden, relaxed atmosphere, and sweeping ocean outlook, the kind of place where a simple drink with friends turns into an afternoon you don’t want to end. Find out more here.
It is located in 383 Lawrence Hargrave Dr, Scarborough NSW 2515
Watsons Bay Hotel
Another beautiful place to drink with a view, Watsons Bay Hotel captures the very essence of Sydney’s seaside spirit. Perched right on the harbour’s edge, it’s where locals and visitors gather for seafood platters, spritzes, and sunsets that paint the sky. From lazy afternoons to lively parties, this iconic spot proves that beach life really is best enjoyed with a glass in hand. Find out more here
It is located in 10 Marine Parade, Watsons Bay NSW 2030
Felons Brewing Co. Manly
Another stunning spot for a drink with a view, Felons Brewing Co. Manly blends great beer with an even better backdrop. Pouring fresh at Sydney’s Manly Wharf, it’s a place where locals and visitors come together to sip, share, and soak in the good life. With a strong commitment to craft, community, and sustainability, Felons isn’t just about the beer — it’s about raising a glass to adventure, creativity, and those golden moments by the water. Find out more here.
It is located in E Esplanade, Manly NSW 2095
Opera Bar
Another reason Sydney shines, Opera Bar is as iconic as its harbourfront setting. Tucked beneath the sails of the Opera House, it is where locals and visitors gather for spritzes at sunset, fresh plates from local producers, and live music that keeps the vibe flowing day and night. With world-famous views and a distinctly Sydney energy, it is the ultimate spot to toast life’s big moments or simply make the everyday feel surreal. Find out more here.
It is located in Sydney Opera House, Lower Concourse Level, Sydney NSW 2000
Smoke Bar at Barangaroo House
Where there’s Smoke, there’s a reason to celebrate. Perched high above Barangaroo, Smoke sets the standard for Sydney rooftop bars with skyline silhouettes, golden hour glows, and cocktails crafted to impress. It is chic, cheeky, and the kind of place where afternoons roll into nights without missing a beat. With a curated cocktail list, buzzing atmosphere, and views that steal the show, Smoke has become a rooftop favourite for both locals and visitors. Find out more here.
It is located in Level 2/35 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo NSW 2000
Henry Deane at Hotel Palisade
Perched atop Hotel Palisade, Henry Deane is a chic split-level cocktail bar with plush lounges, open balconies, and sweeping harbour views in every direction. Perfect for sunset drinks or DJ-led evenings, it is one of Sydney’s most stylish spots to sip, share, and soak up the city skyline.Find out more here.
It is located in 35 Bettington St, Millers Point NSW 2000
The Newport
One of the Northern Beaches’ most iconic waterside pubs, The Newport has been attracting punters from across the city since 1880. This relaxed coastal venue delivers views of the stunning Pittwater, with a bustling alfresco deck made for enjoying sundowners. This dog-friendly spot delivers everything you could want from a waterside pub and more, with a menu of woodfired pizzas, antipasto platters, fresh seafood and everything from classic cocktails to craft beers. Find out more here.
It is located in 2 Kalinya St, Newport NSW 2106
Pasadena
With a long history dating back to the early 20th Century, Pasadena Sydney is a bar, restaurant and boutique will a fascinating story to tell. Set on the stunning Pittwater Bay, this historic venue has been resurrected from a forgotten local landmark to a celebrating dining destination. Today, you’ll find a delectable menu of eats inspired by the venue’s coastal location, as well as a selection of drinks made to be enjoyed while soaking in the spectacular waterside surrounds.
It is located in 1858 Pittwater Road, Church Point.
Manly 16ft Skiff Sailing Club
Almost a century old, Manly 16ft Skiff Sailing Club has grown from a hub for passionate sailors into one of the Northern Beaches’ favourite dining destinations. While the boats may have changed, the spirit of racing, community, and hospitality remains at the heart of everything we do — offering locals and visitors a truly memorable experience by the water. Find out more here.
It is located in Cnr East Esplanade &, Stuart St, Manly NSW 2095.
Looking for more waterside inspiration? Check out our guide to Sydney’s best beach pools and discover our favourite waterside restaurants in Sydney.
This guide is current as of February 2020.. Has a venue we’ve mentioned closed? Let us know, we’d love to hear from you: newsletter@eatdrinkplay.com
