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Fingal Bay, within the stunning holiday paradise of Port Stephens, is just 30 minutes from Newcastle and 2.5 hours north of Sydney.
The region is renowned for its beautiful beaches, surf, koala habitats, the largest moving sand dunes in the southern hemisphere,
calm dolphin-filled waters, and incredible seaside dining.
We’ve put together a list of where to eat out in Fingal Bay, along with a few favourites worth visiting in the wider region.
Fingal Bay
Longboat Cafe
This beachside café is superb — fantastic coffee, beautifully presented meals, healthy breakfast and lunch options,
alcoholic beverages, and a location right across from Seaside Holiday Resort.
With both indoor and outdoor seating, the café gets busy on weekends and during school holidays thanks to its proximity
to the Surf Club, playground, and foreshore activities. There’s even a takeaway window for quick bites and coffees on the go.
Open: 7 days a week, 8am–3pm
Saltwater Restaurant
Overlooking Fingal Beach atop the Surf Life Saving Club, Saltwater is perfect for casual weekend drinks or a romantic evening meal.
Known for fresh seafood, beautiful presentation, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Lunch: 7 days 11am–2:30pm
Dinner: Tues–Sat from 5pm (Happy Hour 5–6pm)
*Closed public holidays. Times may vary for weddings.
Cellar Cafe & Restaurant
A cosy, local favourite with a “Cheers” vibe, Cellar Cafe doubles as a bar, bottleshop, café, and restaurant.
Enjoy coffee, breakfast (Sundays only), or casual afternoon drinks in the courtyard.
Kid-friendly, family-friendly, and great for groups.
Open: Thurs–Sat 11am–8pm, Sun 7:30am–7pm
Fingal Bay Sports Club
Perfect for families and groups, the Sports Club offers high-quality pub food in a newly renovated space.
It features The Kitchen by Mike’s Grill, live music on Saturdays, and a new playground.
Members of Club Holiday Resorts receive 20–25% off accommodation rates at Seaside Fingal Bay.
Open: 7 days a week
Lunch: 12–2:30pm
Dinner: 5–8pm
Fingal Bay Cafe & Takeaway
A local go-to for burgers, fish & chips, coffee, and baked treats. Located on Market Street alongside the Cellar Cafe.
Mon–Wed: 7am–2pm
Thurs–Sat: 7am–7pm
Sun: 7am–3pm
Our Other Favourite Port Stephens Eateries
Little Beach Boathouse – Nelson Bay
Set right on the water, this venue offers a modern Australian seafood restaurant upstairs and a casual café and bar downstairs.
Boathouse Restaurant: Sat–Sun 12–2pm, Wed–Sat 5–8:45pm
Below Deck: Wed–Sun 12pm–sunset
The Little Nel – Nelson Bay
A local favourite known for fresh, in-house breakfasts and lunches made from quality local ingredients.
Breakfast: 7–11:30am
Lunch: Tues–Sun 12–2:30pm
Shoal Bay Country Club – Shoal Bay
A vibrant waterfront venue featuring multiple eateries — Mermaids Café, The Kitchen & Patio, and Atmos Greek Restaurant — plus live music and stunning bay views.
Mermaids: from 6:30am daily
The Kitchen & Patio: from 11:30am daily
Atmos: Wed–Fri from 5pm, Sat–Sun from 11:30am
Murray’s Craft Brewing Co. – Bob’s Farm
Award-winning brewery with beer, spirits, live music, weekend markets, and multiple dining options including Murray’s Bar & Kitchen and Restaurant William.
Bar & Kitchen: 7 days 12–6pm
High Tea Pavilion: 7 days 9–5pm
Restaurant William: Fri–Sun lunch, Fri–Sat dinner
Authentic Thai Restaurant – Nelson Bay
A local favourite with award-winning food and friendly service. Enjoy an authentic Thai experience on the deck overlooking the bay.
Open: Wed–Mon
Lunch: 11am–2pm
Dinner: 5–9pm
Inner Light Tea Rooms – Nelson Bay
Nestled beside the lighthouse and maritime museum, this heritage café offers breakfast, lunch, and spectacular ocean views.
Open: 7 days 8:30am–3pm
Zenith Restaurant – Shoal Bay
A modern café, restaurant, and bar offering fine dining with beach views. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Sandpipers Restaurant – Nelson Bay
Family-owned modern Australian restaurant serving fresh seafood and local produce.
Open: 7 days a week from 5:30pm
Fishermen’s Wharf Seafood – Nelson Bay
Buy the freshest seafood straight from the trawler or grab classic fish and chips from Bub’s Fish & Chips on site.
Mon–Sat: 8am–5pm
Sun: 8am–4pm
Wherever you decide to dine in Port Stephens, you’ll find delicious, locally sourced food paired with stunning views.
