The 7 Amazing Waterfront Bars in Sydney

If you are looking for a cool spot to enjoy the best of bars in Sydney, there are many to visit the waterfront bars and have a great time and drink close to the blue waters and cool breeze.

All these bars are situated between the harbour, the coastline and the rivers that coil back through Sydney with excellent seating arrangements for watching the sea, and sipping your favourite drink along with seaside snacks.

Amazing Waterfront Bars in Sydney

I have assembled here the top 7 waterfront bars, giving an exotic sea view and wonderful drinks.

1. Coogee Pavilion

Must-Try Drink: Pineapple Daiquiri
Location: 169 Dolphin Street, Coogee
Perfect For: Beach days, weekend brunches, and coastal sunset drinks.

Coogee Pavilion Rooftop is a local venter to relish sensational Mediterranean-influenced food, amazing company and an unparalleled view of the breathtaking Coogee shoreline.

You can enjoy here pizzas, burgers and Mediterranean flavour over 3 floors, with a rooftop terrace and a games space.

This bar caters to a wide range of tastes and occasions, whether you can have your snack or go out for cocktails at sunset. This bar houses four indoor and outdoor bars each with its exotic flair.

2. The Squire’s Landing

Must-Try Drink: James Squire One Fifty Lashes Pale Ale
Location: Circular Quay, The Rocks
Perfect For: Beer enthusiasts, harbour views, and relaxed weekend afternoons.

Located right next to the Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay, The Squire’s Landing offers sweeping views of Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.

This James Squire brewhouse is a haven for craft beer lovers who also appreciate great food and waterfront vibes.

3. Felons Brewing Co. Manly

Must-Try Drink: Passionfruit Mojito
Location: East Esplanade, Manly
Perfect For: Weekend get-togethers, beach views, and relaxed socializing.

For a true Aussie seaside vibe, hop on a ferry and head to Felons Manly Bar. This iconic spot brings together beachside relaxation and buzzing nightlife.

With ocean breezes, tropical cocktails, and a young, fun crowd, Manly Wharf Bar is the go-to for a casual yet lively waterfront experience.

4. Barangaroo House

Must-Try Drink: Yuzu Margarita
Location: 35 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo
Perfect For: Luxury evenings, rooftop drinks, and city views.

If you’re after something more modern and sophisticated, Barangaroo House is the place to be. Located on Sydney’s newest waterfront precinct, it features three stunning levels of dining and drinking experiences.

Enjoy cocktails and skyline views at Smoke Bar on the rooftop or unwind at House Bar on the ground floor with beers and bites.

5. Cruise Bar

Must-Try Drink: Watermelon Martini
Location: Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay
Perfect For: Harbour views, cocktails, and evening parties.

If you want your evening to feel like a celebration, Cruise Bar at Circular Quay is the ultimate spot. With its chic design, harbourfront seating, and a vibrant cocktail menu, this bar offers a front-row view of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks.

Perfect for romantic evenings or lively nights out, Cruise Bar blends luxury with a fun, upbeat vibe.

6. Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel

Must-Try Drink: Frosé (frozen rosé)
Location: 1 Military Road, Watsons Bay
Perfect For: Beach lovers, group hangouts, and Sunday sessions.

In this hotel, you enjoy spectacular harbour views as you enjoy a relaxed long lunch or sunset dinner at Beach Club. The menu here is inspired by the seafood along with the chef’s dedication and passion for fresh seasonal and quality seafood.

Irrespective of the occasion, there’s always a feast of delicious food in store for your platter. This hotel is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner all seven days a week. It is located right against the water’s edge so it has a clear view of the harbour and city skyline except for a row of neat boats and the odd potted palm.

7. Opera Bar  

Must-Try Drink: Sydney Sling
Location: Lower Concourse Level, Sydney Opera House
Perfect For: Sunset drinks, date nights, and tourists seeking the ultimate Sydney view.

This Opera Bar is located right close to the water and is often described as the best beer garden in the world.  You will be swept away by the picturesque views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, CBD, and aesthetic Harbour. This opera bar is perfect for all occasions food and celebration.

Enjoy breakfast all 7 days a week where you can watch chefs shuck fresh oysters at the Raw Bar. You can eat food made of locally sourced cheeses and meats sliced to order in the Meat & Cheese Room, or simply a meal off on the All Day Menu.

You can taste Opera Bar’s cocktails, a list of which is updated quarterly to ensure that your taste buds are constantly tantalized. You can also taste the signature cocktail Sydney Sling – West Winds sabre gin, fresh lime, mint, pomegranate, bitters, and soda.

Sydney’s waterfront bars are more than just drinking spots—they’re experiences that capture the city’s coastal beauty and cosmopolitan charm. Whether it’s a relaxing afternoon with ocean breezes or a vibrant night under the city lights, these venues offer the perfect mix of views, vibes, and flavour.

From the Opera Bar’s iconic harbourfront to Watsons Bay’s beachside bliss, Sydney proves time and again why it’s one of the world’s top destinations for scenic drinking experiences.

Above listed are the top 7 waterfront bars that not only offer panoramic views of water but also offer delicious and exotic food and beverages to satiate your taste buds.

Tips for Visiting Sydney’s Waterfront Bars

1. Book ahead for popular venues, especially on weekends.
2. Visit during sunset for the best views and photo opportunities.
3. Use public transport or ferries to easily explore multiple bars in one day.
4. Check for happy hour specials – many bars offer discounts on cocktails before 6 PM.
5. Bring a light jacket – Sydney’s waterfront can get breezy in the evening.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to combine world-class drinks with stunning views, these 7 amazing waterfront bars in Sydney offer unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re clinking glasses at the Opera Bar, relaxing by the sea at Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel, or soaking in rooftop views at Barangaroo House, each spot captures the magic of Sydney’s vibrant waterfront lifestyle.

So grab your friends, raise a glass, and toast to the city that knows how to do waterfront nights in style.