The Best Restaurants in Exmouth to Fuel Your Ningaloo Adventures

Taking home the gong of WA’s top small tourism town of 2023, sunny Exmouth (the town enjoys 320 days of sunshine a year) is the gateway to the breathtaking Ningaloo Coast. This must-visit world-renowned coastal destination is where incredible beaches, bucket-list adventures and underwater wonders meet a burgeoning foodie scene that’s got something for everyone. 

These are the best cafes and restaurants in Exmouth to have on your radar come holiday time. 

The Shack

Located right at the beach, The Shack serves coffee, fresh juices, smoothies, ice cream and yummy food like tacos, juicy burgers and nasi goreng. 

It’ll take you on a culinary journey morning through night, perfect for any kind of hunger cue.

Go for a swim, snorkel, catch a fish or stop by after your day out on the boat, it’s one of the best low-key restaurants in Exmouth the whole family will enjoy. There are even two dedicated kids areas, plus kid-friendly menu items to ensure that the whole time you’re there will be an easy-breezy dining experience. 

73 Maidstone Crescent, Exmouth

Adrift Cafe

Adrift Cafe perfectly reflects the relaxing vibes of Exmouth. Here, the food is simple, but it’s incredibly good. Focusing on rustic, traditional café food using quality ingredients and local produce, Adrift doesn’t overcomplicate things. It’s the perfect place to come to for a chill dinner after exploring.

8 Huston Street, Exmouth

Whalers 

This is the place to indulge in all things seafood; locally caught and as fresh as it gets. One of Exmouth’s most relaxed and sophisticated dining experiences, Whalers is all about immersing yourself in the stunning coastal ambiance while relishing a symphony of flavours straight from the sea. Located in the heart of the Exmouth Escape Resort, they’re open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (there’s even a pool snacks menu from 3.00pm, should you feel so inclined). 

2 Murat Road, Exmouth

The Social Society 

The Social Society is a stylish wellness hub and a welcome addition to Exmouth’s dining scene, with a wholesome and nourishing vegan and vegetarian menu, boutique coffee, quirky cakes and fresh pressed juices and smoothies. Owners Anne and Kai are passionate about sustainability and conserving this corner of the world, and it shows. Come for the delicious eats (we can’t go past the Spicy Eggs), and stay to browse the lifestyle space with a range of ethical slow fashion clothing, skincare and accessories. They also offer regular yoga classes and the occasional sustainability DIY workshop. 

2/5 Thew Street, Exmouth

Froth Craft Brewery 

Award-winning micro-brewery Froth is Exmouth’s go-to oasis for craft beers paired with gourmet burgers and elevated pub classics, like chicken parmigiana, loaded fries and nachos. The laid-back vibe, delicious food and live music creates an atmosphere that’s casual and vibrant – the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring Ningaloo. 

5 Kennedy Street, Exmouth

Whalebone Brewing Company 

With all beers brewed and spirits distilled on-site, a visit to the Whalebone Brewing Company in some ways guarantees a ‘real taste of Ningaloo’. This popular brewery and restaurant in Exmouth is literally beer and pizza and low-key vibes in a shed. Rural, relaxed and a whole lot of fun. 

Owned and operated by two local families with a love of craft beer, the pints on offer here are great, refreshing, true to style brews best enjoyed with mates and family in an authentic setting under the stars.

Complemented by delicious pizza topped with local ingredients, a kids play area and great tunes by local and travelling musicians, Whalebone is a place to kick off your boots (or thongs!) after a day of exploring the Ningaloo reef and range. It’s hard not to love this one. 

27 Patterson Way, Exmouth

Exhale

After a day of Ningaloo adventuring, you’ll have earned a few cocktails! Head to Exhale Exmouth, grab a seat on the verandah, enjoy some live music and indulge in some delicious tapas and excellent cocktails, while you soak up those relaxed coastal vibes. They’re open for breakfast and dinner. 

1 Thew Street, Exmouth

Mantaray’s Bar & Brasserie

The relaxed ambience at Mantaray’s on-site bar and brasserie provides the perfect place to enjoy a meal with friends or family while taking in the views over the pool and Exmouth Gulf.

Join for some afternoon or evening snacks and enjoy a delicious cocktail or two. You can also take your pick from their solid selection of WA wines and beers.

An emphasis on seafood and local produce means you might find yourself coming back for more each night. Coral Coast chowder with a hint of lemon myrtle, anyone?

Thanks to its prime location overlooking the gulf – and depending on the time of year – you may just be lucky enough to witness a playful calf launching itself out of the water. Full moons are also spectacular to witness from the bounds of this relaxed restaurant in Exmouth. 

Lot 900 Madaffari Drive, Exmouth

The Short Order Local

Parked up by Town Beach, this family-owned food truck is the perfect pitstop after a morning swim. Serving up brekky burgers and coffee for just $15, alongside sweet treats that hit the spot, it’s all about laidback, on-wheels charm with a view. Local, friendly, and irresistibly good—this little gem proves great things come on four wheels.

Town Beach, Exmouth 

Now that you’ve explored the best restaurants in Exmouth, why not check out the restaurant offerings in Broome, or browse our guide to the best places to dine in Perth. 

Dani Meager, Kelsey Harrington

10 December 2024