Best Waterfront Restaurants in Hobsons Bay
Hobsons Bay is blessed with the most magnificent bay and water views in Melbourne, combined with so many great spots to experience food by the waterfront.
Here’s a list of the best waterfront restaurants with views of the bay, many of which are family-friendly too - because our littlest visitors shouldn’t have to miss out!
They’ve been selected by Amy Gardner and Joyce Watts, part of the team behind Melbourne’s biggest family travel site TOT: HOT OR NOT - and westie locals with kids!
In a sweet, secluded spot along the Williamstown foreshore, Pier Farm offers beautiful views of the marina and promises a warm family experience.
The restored boatshed sits right on the water and has nautical-themed decor, fresh Mediterranean meals and friendly service.
An easy pleaser for our kids is any of the hearty wood-fired pizzas on the menu.
When the weather’s nice you can sit outside on the deck, or otherwise enjoy a cosy booth indoors. Highchairs are available.
Pier Farm, 34 The Strand, Williamstown, 9397 7799
Photo Credit: Joyce Watts
Upmarket restaurant The Strand in Williamstown has provided the perfect setting to wine and dine for more than twenty years. It’s loved in equal parts for its food, service and setting.
The views across the bay are spectacular with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the two-storey dining space.
The menu focuses on modern Australian cuisine and the renowned seafood tower is particularly impressive! You can even add caviar for a special occasion.
If you’re dining with kids colouring activities and highchairs are available.
The Strand, 1 The Strand, Williamstown, 9397 7474
To experience delicious seafood by the sea, Pelican’s Landing is the place to visit. With the catch happening right at the front door, it’s no wonder that the menu’s focus is on fresh local seafood.
The modern Australian and pub-style meals are delicious and generous in size, including the kid's menu. The drinks list is also extensive.
There’s always a vibrant atmosphere at Pelican’s Landing, with airy seating indoors or out on the balcony deck, and bay views from every table. You can often catch live music happening on a weekend.
Kids will love keeping an eye on the boats coming and going from Gem Pier. High chairs and colouring activities are available.
Pelican's Landing, 1 Syme St, Williamstown, 9397 0155
A little-known dining gem in Williamstown is the restaurant at the Royal Victorian Motor Yacht Club. The club has been operating out of this historical location since 1936!
The bistro is open to the public and it’s the place to enjoy elegant pub-style meals against the backdrop of Melbourne’s city skyline.
Upon entry, you will sign up for a free club membership which allows you access to the bar, bistro and club rooms. Don’t miss visiting the library and trophy room where you can learn about the club’s community involvement and history.
Royal Victorian Motor Yacht Club, 260 Nelson Pl, Williamstown, 9393 2888
Sebastian Beach Bar & Grill brings Spanish Basque-inspired food to the historical bathing pavilion at Williamstown Beach.
Savour high-quality fare in a relaxed fine dining setting, with the best sunset beach views Melbourne has to offer.
The kid's menu features risotto, tortellini and fish bites with chips. Highchairs and colouring-in activities are available.
The drop-in beach bar has a more casual feel, with a lighter menu of food and drinks available outdoors on the deck. From the deck it’s just a few steps down to the sheltered Williamstown Beach.
Sebastian Beach Bar & Grill, 26 Esplanade, Williamstown, 9088 8989
Fifi’s by the Beach is a cafe full of natural light, located directly across from Williamstown Beach.
French owner Nic has developed a Parisian-inspired menu with light, tasty meals, coffee and ice cream. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or a snack and soak in the stunning panoramic view of the sand and the water.
Fifi’s By The Beach, 81 The Esplanade, Williamstown, 8596 5310
After a splash in the water or a play on the sand at Willy Beach, head straight on over to enjoy some southern Italian street food at Kiosk d’Asporto.
The location is everything and you don’t even need to be wearing your shoes!
Kids and adults alike will love what’s on offer; whether it's pizza by the slice, crispy fish and chips or traditional gelato.
Public toilets and change rooms, including a baby change table, are attached to the cafe.
Kiosk d'Asporto, 99 Esplanade, Williamstown, 9397 6839
Directly across from Altona Beach is Norfolk Cafe, a wonderful spot to pick up a coffee, smoothie, or a meal with a view.
Tasty meals on the menu include bagels, wraps, eggs on toast and soup with freshly baked bread. Note that only outdoor seating is available.
Make sure you pack your walking shoes, scooters or bikes as the path along the Esplanade has a great trail stretching all the way from Altona Beach around to Seaholme.
Norfolk Cafe, 139 Esplanade, Altona, 0404 885 915
For an authentic Italian picnic by the sea, head to Matteo’s Deli in Altona. You’ll find fridges and shelves stocked with the finest Italian fare.
Choose a scrumptious grazing spread or a freshly made ciabatta roll and head out for a picnic on the beach. Of course, there are sweet pastries, doughnuts and cannoli too!
While you’re there, explore Logan Reserve playground, Altona Beach, Louis Joel Art Gallery and Altona Library, which are all a short walk away.
Matteo's Delicatessen, 30 Pier St, Altona, 9078 4441
Whether you’re after a cosy brunch or an on-the-go bite to eat, Bezirk Cafe in Altona has you covered.
Sit back and enjoy the sea breeze with a braised pork benedict, chilli eggs or French toast. Or grab a toastie with your coffee to go.
There’s a straightforward kids menu and high chairs available, with indoor and outdoor seating.
Bezirk is a short stroll from Flemings Pool, just south of Altona Beach, which is a great swimming hole for families. It’s also the spot to launch your kayak or head out for a snorkel to explore the Seaholme rock reef.
Bezirk Cafe, 1A Millers Rd, Altona, 9315 9012
Want more local family-friendly inspiration? Check out TOT: HOT OR NOT’s picks for the best kid-friendly restaurants and cafes in Hobsons Bay.