From balmy alfresco lunches in the hinterland to dinners by the seaside, we’re positively spoilt with options here.
Not sure where to start? No worries, we’ve done the hard yards and rounded up the very best
outdoor dining venues on the Sunshine Coast so you can soak up all the good vibes this slice of paradise has to offer.
La Canteena
If you like your tacos super stuffed, your nachos towering and your margaritas ice cold, then La Canteena is for you. The Maroochydore institution serves up drool-worthy Mexican eats from Friday to Sunday—all of which is best consumed from their uber cool beer garden complete with festoon lighting, hanging greenery and brightly coloured tables.
The Boat Shed
The Boatshed, Cotton Tree
Looking for one of the best outdoor dining restaurants on the Sunshine Coast—you’ve found it at The Boat Shed. For the perfect evening, book a table under the trees for sunset with a plate of local seafood and a bottle of chilled vino. Open seven days a week, located in Cotton
Tree and overlooking the sparkling Maroochy River, it doesn’t get much better than this.
Brouhaha Brewery
Brouhaha Brewery, Maleny
Nestled in the heart of gorgeous Maleny, enjoy mother nature at her best with a trip to Brouhaha Brewery’s sprawling deck. Grab a chilled IPA, chow down on eats like sweet and sour pork belly and lemongrass Mooloolaba prawns, and take in views of Obi Obi Creek. See? We told you the Sunshine Coast’s outdoor dining options were endless.
Homegrown
Heading to the hinterland? Do yourself a favour and make sure you stop by Homegrown. Nestled in pretty Palmwoods and housed in a charming cottage, this sweet eatery is the perfect spot for some alfresco dining. Boasting an adorable courtyard and sprawling garden, order something tasty from their locally-sourced menu (the summer minestrone is a must) and enjoy it under their towering Poinciana tree.
Bask Eumundi
Take a trip to Italy, no passport required with a visit to Bask and their lush garden. At Bask, long lazy lunches are on the agenda, serving up an ever-changing seasonal menu full of local produce including sumptuous dishes like local figs, honey and buffalo mozzarella, and saffron roasted Moyer Valley chicken with celeriac puree. The intimate garden setting is pure magic, with clusters of lush greenery, festoon lighting and white table clothes. The result is positively dreamy.
Brightwater Hotel
Boasting stunning views of Brightwater Lake, pop this beauty to the top of your must-visit list.
With a sprawling outdoor deck, you can enjoy views of the crystal clear lake, soak up live music, sink an icy brew or two and tuck into their tasty menu—the chicken parmy is a game-changer. Known for being one of the best pubs on the Sunshine Coast, the Brightwater Hotel is perfect for the whole family.
Bistro C
Bistro C on Hastings St, Noosa Heads
It doesn’t get much more idyllic than a sunset dinner and cocktail at Bistro C. Set on the edge of Noosa’s Main Beach, you’ll sit amongst palm trees fringed by white sand with crashing waves in the background. Fortunately the menu here is just as excellent as the views. Think: Coral Cove Barramundi, Confit Duck Leg and Squidink Linguine.
Spirit House
Spirit House Restaurant & Cooking School, Yandina, Sunshine Coast
For the granddaddy of all outdoor dining spots on the Sunshine Coast, you can’t go past Spirit House. Like stepping into a secret walled garden in the mountains of Thailand, you’re pretty much guaranteed a view of their tranquil lagoon, plus one of the best meals of your
life. Pro tip: order the Green Curry with Wagyu Brisket and thank us later. N.B This beauty is due to reopen in March so mark your calendars.
Pier 33
Pier 33 (at The Wharf), Mooloolaba
Lunch, sunset drinks or dinner, it’s always a good time to sit on the lush lawns of Pier 33 with a crisp drink in hand. With a menu full of tasty eats (think: prawn rolls, Black Angus ragu and
Jervis Bay mussels), gaze out at the sparkling Mooloolaba canals and picture yourself on one of the many fancy boats parked at the marina.
