Where stunning destinations meet unforgettable dishes.
As you drive north up Western Australia’s coastline, the lights of Perth dwindling in your rearview mirror, you’ll feel the air getting warmer, see the dirt getting redder, and eventually find yourself in the state’s Coral Coast region, where a tranquil paradise awaits you. The region is just as diverse in its natural landscapes as it is in its culinary experiences.
From local craft breweries to beachside coffee shops, heritage venues, and scenic restaurants, you’re not getting the best of the Coral Coast if you’re not exploring and savouring the local cuisine. That’s why Australia’s Coral Coast has created a series of food and beverage guides that include hand-picked eateries from throughout the region that aren’t to be driven past.
Indian Ocean Drive
The gateway to the Coral Coast, Indian Ocean Drive, is 1,250 kilometres of ever-changing landscapes from rolling white sand dunes and blooming wildflowers in season to secluded beaches kissed by turquoise waters. A complete road trip along here means knowing the best places to stop off and experience the region’s top dining spots.
Lobster Shack

On Indian Ocean Drive sits the small fishing town of Cervantes, one of Australia’s most famous lobster towns. It’s here you’ll want to make a stop at the iconic Lobster Shack. With pristine views overlooking the glittering Coral Coast and a menu boasting an abundance of fresh, locally caught produce, it’s one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the flavours and sights of one of the country’s best seafood regions.
Dongara Bakery
Constructed in 1904 and appearing as a bakery in 1906, Dongara Barkery has long been a charming landmark in Western Australia. Serving up steaming homemade pies and sausage rolls, sweet tarts and slices, and barista-made coffee, this spot is everything an Aussie bakery should be.
View the Indian Ocean Drive Food and Beverage Guide.
Geraldton
The Coral Coast’s only city, Geraldton, is a vibrant blend of rich maritime history, Aboriginal heritage, and coastal charm. The seaside city is a hub for adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those wanting to explore the biodiverse Abrolhos Islands that lay 60 kilometres off its coast. Being a city, Geraldton is home to a trendy mix of cafes, restaurants, and breweries making it an ideal destination to explore and savour the local flavours.
30 Knots

With a passion for local ingredients, Geraldton’s favourite distillery, 30 Knots Spirits, is where you’ll find the essence of the Coral Coast in every bottle. Crafting small batch gins, vodkas, rums and even a limoncello, there’s something for all moods. With a food menu reflecting a love for Western Australia’s produce, this laid-back spot is a must-do for those looking to enjoy a drink and grab a bite while soaking in the atmosphere of the Mid West city.
Burnt Barrel

After years working at one of London’s top BBQ Joints, the Burnt Barrel owners found their next spot tucked away in the scenic Chapman Valley. Standing out for its inviting, rustic charm and smoky menu offerings, this unmissable venue quickly earned a reputation as a must-visit for foodies. With a focus on wood-fired cuisine and a menu that features rich, smoky flavours, expect to taste the best of the best here when it comes to all things smoked, including the 14-hour smoked beef burnt ends and the Kansas City ribs.
View the Geraldton Food and Beverage Guide.
Kalbarri

Brimming with adventure experiences both on and off the land, Kalbarri is a coastal gem known for its striking national parks, rugged cliffs, and untouched beaches. When taking a break from exploring, the town provides a diverse selection of eateries where you can enjoy the local sights while taking a bite.
Finlay’s

Finlay’s is the town’s local craft brewery and for good reason. This open-air restaurant boasts an eclectic charm with nautical decor, vintage bikes, and quirky items decorating its walls. On-site brewing means ice-cold beers poured fresh, ideal for a relaxed afternoon or sundowner. Their seafood menu highlights local treasures from Abrolhos Island octopus to Exmouth prawns, showcasing the true delicacies of the Coral Coast.
The Pelican Cafe
Where the river meets the sea you’ll find the Pelican Cafe. Boasting serene panoramic views, indoor and outdoor dining and direct access to the daily pelican hand-feeding at the foreshore across the road, make this an essential stop before a day of exploring Kalbarri’s rugged beauty.
View the Kalbarri Food and Beverage Guide.
Shark Bay
Being the first location in Western Australia to receive UNESCO status, rich in flora and fauna, and home to five of Australia’s endangered mammals, Shark Bay is a wonderland of unmatched experiences one after another. Here, the culinary experiences on offer are just as diverse and memorable as the landscapes.
Boughshed
Metres from the shore of Dolphin Beach sits The Boughshed Restaurant, where picturesque views of the stunning blue waters of Shark Bay are always guaranteed. Whether you’re looking to catch a sunrise, sunset or both, this venue is the place. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and happy hour, you can satisfy your palate, and your eyes, here any time of the day.
Dirk Hartog Island

Sitting surrounded by the glistening white sands and crystal clear waters of Dirk Hartog Island is the Inscription Bar and Café, the most remote of its kind in the country. The island is home to three unique and high-quality, small-batch gins alongside beer, wine, and other spirits. Sip a drink of your choice and watch as the sun sets, saying its final goodnight to Australia.
View the Shark Bay Food and Beverage Guide.
Ningaloo

This bucket list destination is renowned for being one of the few places in the world where you can swim with the giant and gentle whale shark. A day at Ningaloo is spent frolicking in the cool turquoise waters, swimming alongside abundant marine life, discovering over 300 coral varieties, and finally, as the sun starts to set, calling it a day by indulging at one of the area’s best eateries.
Froth Brewery

Froth Brewery in Exmouth is a true local gem, providing an atmosphere that’s both lively and relaxing, capturing the essence of this coastal community. Sample crisp, cold beers brewed at the onsite brewery as you unwind beneath the tropical ferns and festoon lighting, soaking up the Coral Coast’s most northern town.
Bumbaks

Carnarvon’s local legend, Bumbaks, grows its own produce and partners with local growers to rescue fruits and vegetables that would otherwise be discarded for being deemed “imperfect” by mainstream supermarkets. Not only are they sustainability-conscious but they have also won more than 100 awards at the Perth Royal Agricultural Show for their preserves, ice creams, dried fruits, cakes, and smoothies. We highly recommend you try their creamy mango smoothies and indulgent choc-coated bananas.
View the Ningaloo Food and Beverage Guide.
For more not-to-be-missed dining spots in these destinations, explore the Coral Coast food and beverage guides.
Visit the landing page for maps and downloadable guides on each destination.