The Best Kid Friendly Cafes By the Water In Sydney

By: Serina Hajje, ellaslist

When the sun is bursting and the beaches are sparkling, take a seat at one of these cafes-by-the-sea that have the most stunning views. And the best part is that you can go for a swim with the kids after your meal.

1. The Avalon on the Beach, Northern Beaches

The Northern Beaches finest family coastal dining experience- where surf and sand meet delicious eats and a seaside breeze. Grab a window seat to look out at a wide expanse of blue as you enjoy prawns salty and fresh from the sea, and a Little Nippers menu the kids will devour. On the ground floor, outside but covered, you’ll find ‘The Kiosk’ café with tables right next to the beach. It’s a great alternative option for families looking to eat or drink here. If your kids are happiest when they’re not restricted to sitting at a table – this is perfect. Let them play in the sand while you keep a watchful eye on them and chow down on delicious brunch, lunch and snack options. ellaslist had lunch here recently- read about out delicious, scenic time!

2. The Museum Of Contemporary Art Cafe, The Rocks

The view of this rooftop cafe is over Sydney harbour including the bridge, Opera House, and city skyline- with nothing but blue and ferries bobbing up and down as far as the eye can see. The views, particularly on a sunny day, are unsurpassed. It’s such a treat to find a relaxed yet sophisticated kid-friendly cafe by the water in the bustling city centre, but the MCA has somehow managed. The menu changes seasonally to reflect the exhibitions on display. Last Summer 2016-2017, it’s Japanese inspired to celebrate the Miyajima exhibit of light mesmerising families. Find out more here.

3. Tea Gardens Café, Watsons Bay

The family-run Tea Gardens café is situated on the waters edge with a picturesque view over the shimmering harbour and bridge. The grassed play area and shaded patio provides the perfect space for kids, with the bonus of a library on site to keep them entertained. The friendly Tea Gardens café staff are also happy to provide plenty of colouring material. So whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea, this is an ideal setting. But whatever you do, don’t miss out on their scrumptiously famous homemade scones. If you’re looking for other activities, the cafe is situated directly opposite a harbour pool and a short walk from a great kid’s playground.

4. Pelican Pavilion, Collaroy

Pelican Pavilion is a seaside cafe, which is part of the refurbished The Collaroy. It’s situated in an enclosed deck with the best view around. Kids are most welcome here and little ones will love rummaging through the baskets of toys near the entrance.
The menu is summery with a healthy slant. Think Coconut Bircher for brekkie or Smores Waffles for a treat. Brunch is a delicious selection of grilled salmon on sourdough, brekkie burger, pulled post benedict and more – all very reasonably priced. There is a fabulous playground nearby, Bruce Bartlett Reserve. There is paid parking near the hotel, surf club and playground, or street parking in the side-lanes nearby.
Serving Breakfast & Brunch every Saturday & Sunday from 8am – 12pm.

5. Bacino Kiosk, Mosman

Located near the stunning Clifton Gardens and amazing water views, the Bacino kiosk serves Italian cuisine including pastas, light meals, snacks and ice cream. Kids are going to love the enclosed playground and spacious grassy areas surrounding the cafe. The menu is suitable for kids and the cafe is armed with highchairs and pram access! Plenty of customers have raved about the coffee served, so its well worth ordering a cup.
Open from 7am – 4pm daily.

6. Gusto On The Beach, Curl Curl

The South Curl Curl Surf Club is right on the beach and is now home to a newly renovated venue with a million dollar view. Specialty coffee bean Belaroma chose this location as the flagship store for its Gusto coffee brand cafe. Munch on bacon and egg rolls; “longboards” with boiled eggs, smoked salmon, brie and avocado; or kid’s toasties. The cafe is dog friendly too!

7. Waterfront Cafe, Pittwater

This cute general store, (actually a heritage listed post office built in 1909) is a hidden gem in Sydney. You can drive or travel by boat to Church Point, take the ferry or enjoy a scenic walk along Pittwater’s foreshore to get to this kid-friendly cafe with stunning water views. The Waterfront Cafe menu is organic and locally sourced but still full of your child’s favourites like breakfast tacos, pizzas and fish & chips.
Open 7 days a week, breakfast, lunch and dinner. See website for trading hours and specials.

8. Carss Park Café & Grill, Blakehurst

The unique blend of grassy parks and beach makes this a favourite family spot in the area. The Carss Park cafe is located right next to a great playground, park and a sheltered beach, so kids can play on the equipment and build sandcastles. The café overlooks the picturesque Kogarah Bay and has indoor and outdoor seating area, with plenty of room to move. The cafe creates new and inspired menus that takes advantage of seasonal produce and contemporary dishes.
Open from 8am – 3.30pm during the week and from 8am to 4pm on the weekend.

9. The Boathouse Shelly Beach, Manly

Just a few steps from the crystal sands of Shelly Beach, is the Boathouse, a spacious open cafe that invites you to lounge around all day. Considering its location, its unsurprising to find that its menu has a lot of seafood and the classic fish and chips. If you wander past the kitchen you’ll find yourself in a beautiful open-air garden. The Boathouse offers a range of fresh juices, smoothies and coconuts to takeaway and Australian classic cakes baked daily at their in-house bakery.
Open from 7am – 11.30am, lunch is from 12.pm – 4pm (coffee, cakes and drinks until 5pm)

10. Tamarama Beach Café, Tamarama

Much like The Boathouse, Tamarama Beach Cafe, the beach is only a few strides and behind the cafe is a comfortable stretch of a concrete playground and a grassy area. Tamarama Beach is usually a quiet beach, making it perfect for toddlers. The cafe’s seating is outdoors, so it will be closed on rainy days, but on sunny days the view is always stunning no matter where you sit. There’s also plenty of room for prams and a disabled toilet that has a baby change table and shower in it.
Open daily from 9am – 5.30pm.