Best Food In Airlie Beach
Airlie Beach is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and it's neighbouring Whitsunday Islands. People from across the globe make the journey to Airlie to get out on the water and experience the wonders of the region for themselves. With an endless amount of day boat tours, overnight charters, backpacker boats, and jetski tours to fill your days, there's no doubt that when you make your way back to land you'll be starving!
Thankfully, there is a wide selection of restaurants in Airlie Beach, so tantalise those taste buds and get ready to feast on some delicious tucker during your Whitsundays getaway. From Italian to Vietnamese to incredibly fresh fish, there’s something for everyone!
Here is some of the best food in Airlie Beach!
1. SANDBAR RESTAURANT & BAR
Fresh to Airlie Beach's food scene is the tropical Sandbar! Enjoy never-ending views of the sparkling blue Coral Sea while you sip on zesty, refreshing cocktails and graze on a mouth-watering Mediterranean-inspired menu. Watch the Whitsunday sunset between portions of pressed pork belly, succulent steaks, fresh seafood, and seasonal specials. Nestled just upstairs on Airlie Esplanade, Sandbar is the nautical nirvana that will put you in full holiday-mode!
2. EASTWOODS BAR & DINING
Since its grand opening in January 2024, Eastwoods has rapidly become a beloved destination for both locals and tourists in Airlie Beach. Known for its harmonious blend of Southeast Asian flavours, Eastwoods offers plates of food that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. With a big emphasis on shareable dishes, ambient atmosphere, and an extensive drinks menu featuring delicious cocktails and impressive wine list, Eastwoods is the perfect spot to enjoy a memorable evening with family or friends!
3. BREEZE BAR
Located right in the heart of the town, Breeze Bar is your one-stop-shop for sundown adventures. Boasting a vibrant and delicious cocktail selection, you’re going to love the atmosphere. Their signature cocktail is the traditional and beloved Espresso Martini, so grab an antipasto sharing platter, rally up your friends and family and settle into a relaxing evening at Breeze Bar.
4. WHITSUNDAY SAILING CLUB
It’s a local hotspot, and there’s no doubt why - boasting unbeatable views of the Coral Sea and marina, Whitsunday Sailing Club is host to a delicious and wide menu that the whole family will love. Centered on fresh and tasty seafood, the menu also features a great selection of vegan and vegetarian options that will not disappoint. Regularly hosting a buffet and specials board too, there’s always something special happening here. Open for both lunch and dinner, you’ll be able to watch sailing races from the balcony. As a local favourite, make sure you book in advance if you’re after a balcony seat!
5. PARADISO, RESTAURANT & ROOFTOP BAR
Featuring delicious tapas and serene beachfront dining, Paradiso is the perfect place to take it slow and start (or end) your day. Nestled right at the front of the Airlie Beach foreshore, the venue often hosts tranquil live music sessions while guests feast on the delicious Spanish-inspired fare. With a great range of food to suit all food tastes including gluten free, dairy-free and vegan, this incredible restaurant also boasts a vibrant new rooftop bar that is just perfect for sinking a few after-dinner cocktails.
6. SIDEWALK CAFE
For those wanting to start their morning with a bang, Sidewalk Cafe is the spot for you. Featuring the best coffee in town and freshly baked muffins, this is a popular local cafe that is set to impress. Set upon the waterfront and offering spectacular views of the Coral Sea, Sidewalk features a large menu of delicious traditional breakfast options. From poached eggs to fruit salad and salmon toasties, this is the best place to start your day!
7. LA TABELLA TRATTORIA
As one of the most divine restaurants in town, this special venue is a family favourite. Serving up incredibly authentic Italian cuisine for both lunch and dinner, there’s no doubt that you’ll be hooked once you try it. Located directly opposite the stunning beach, the venue is cozy and romantic, catering perfectly to friends, couples and families alike. Try the exquisite gorgonzola gnocchi and pair it with a freshly crushed mango mojito, or peruse the specials board and prepare for your mind to be blown. Using the freshest ingredients possible, this is a dining experience you will not forget.
8. CAFE ONE 3
For delicious, homemade and healthy breakfast options, this is the ultimate place. Featuring a menu that specialises in vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes, this is a hidden gem that locals rave about. Located just off the tourist strip, it’s a short walk from the main area of Airlie Beach and is the perfect place to settle over a coffee.
9. SORRENTO’S RESTAURANT & BAR
Offering the ultimate dining experience in Airlie Beach, Sorrento’s, is known by locals as one of the best places to relax with a drink. The stunning panoramic views of the Coral Sea Marina make it a beautiful place to unwind after a long day of exploring, so order up and enjoy your evening! Featuring a delicious menu with wonderful pizzas, pastas and tapas, there’s no better place to watch the sunset over the horizon.
10. LA MARINA RESTAURANT, PIZZERIA & BAR
The Port of Airlie boasts La Marina, an authentic and delicious Italian restaurant. For those who are craving fine-dining with a view, this venue offers spectacular views across the Marina. Peruse the delicious menu with a glass of hand-picked boutique wine, and dig into some of the best Italian fare in the country. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, La Marina offers a whimsical experience for all.
