The Best Waterfront Bars in Sydney for Drinks with a View

With many of Sydney's suburbs dotted along the coastline, you'll find no shortage of waterfront bars. And with mild weather year-round, every day is a good day for a waterside tipple. 

Whether you're a fan of rooftop views or like to be as beachfront as possible, these bars are all worth a visit. We've always found our beverages taste better with a view so next time you're seeking destinations for a night out, head to one of Sydney's waterfront bars. 

Promenade Bondi Beach  

Promenade Bondi Beach's Front Yard Bar is a go-to for visitors and locals alike. You can enjoy sweeping views of Australia's most famous beach whilst sipping on your drink of choice. What could be better?! Seasonal cocktails and casual bites are the main order of business. You'll also find these good folk have thought of everything with heaters and blankets provided if the weather turns chilly.  

Shop 4 Bondi Pavilion, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Bondi Beach  

Pier Bar

You'll be hard-pressed to find a better view than this. Located directly above the water, Pier Bar is perfect for every afternoon from a toasty tipple in winter to a sundowner in summer. The fun cocktail lists make use of unique Australian ingredients whilst the wines and beers cover some of the best in local and international drops. Enjoy live music of a weekend whilst you kick back on the wharf. 

11 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay 

The Squire’s Landing

What better way to spend a Sydney evening, than getting stuck into beer and cheeses against the backdrop of some of the city's finest landmarks? Offering Quayside views (without the Quay price tag), The Squire's Landing is one of the best bars in Sydney to indulge in batch beers, brewed on-site in their microbrewery. 

Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay Way, The Rocks

Manly Pavillion 

When it comes to dazzling locations, it doesn't get better than this heritage-listed venue, which is run by The Boathouse Group. The interiors have been decked out in the trademark Boathouse style - think bright and bold wallpaper, shell mirrors, floating glass buoys, fresh flowers galore and crab baskets - which creates an uplifting coastal, beach-like atmosphere. While the inside is a visual feast for the eyes, the outside terrace is just as special thanks to its magical views of Manly Harbour. 

West Esplanade, Manly

55 North at Manly Pacific

The Manly Pacific hotel, is home to 55 North, aptly named after its iconic location. With interiors designed by the award-winning Sydney-based, architecture and interiors firm Luchetti Krelle, think warm tones and cosy nooks - the perfect spot to gaze out upon one of Sydney's most iconic beaches whilst working your way through their cocktail menu.

55 North Steyne, Manly

Icebergs Dining Room & Bar

One of the most famous waterfront spots in Sydney, you simply can't head to Bondi without a stop off at Icebergs. For that iconic view, snag a coveted corner table and look out onto what is arguably Australia’s most Instagrammed ocean pool. 

1 Notts Avenue, Bondi Beach 

Opera Bar

When it comes to alfresco dining, it really doesn’t get much better than this. Pair uninterrupted harbour views with the Opera Bar’s Mediterranean eats and a well-stocked bar, and you're pretty much all set. Take any Sydneysider’s advice: come for the sunset and stay for the city lights.

Macquarie Street, Sydney 

If you've made your way through Sydney's waterfront bars and are looking for more bars to add to your rotation, be sure to check out our favourite rooftop bars here and the best hidden bars here.