Here’s where to enjoy a cocktail, wine, or beer in Port Stephens this summer
Written by: Jane Hollier
Port Stephens is known for its laidback atmosphere, excellent seafood, and stunning views. The only thing that could make this experience even better is throwing in a crisp, cold drink.
Whether you live in Port Stephens or you’re just visiting, make the most of the warmer weather with a delicious beverage by the water. Keep reading for our guide to summer drinking spots in Port Stephens.
Atmos
Atmos brings the relaxing atmosphere of the Greek Islands to the shores of Shoal Bay. The cocktail list showcases unique Greek flavours, and the wine list celebrates imported Greek - and local Hunter Valley - varietals.
Where: 35-45 Shoal Bay Rd, Shoal Bay
Cellar Cafe
Located in the back streets of Fingal Bay, the Cellar Cafe offers a range of pizzas, for both dine in and take away, it also doubles as a bottleshop, and has coffee for the early risers. At the back you'll also find a couple of taps featuring some local brews for you to enjoy on the balcony.
Where: 12 Market St, Fingal Bay
Cheeky Dog
For a pub atmosphere in Soldiers Point, head to Cheeky Dog, just below Bannisters. Expect upmarket pub fare, a dog-friendly beer garden, and live music to pair with your beverage of choice.
Where: 147 Soldiers Point Rd, Soldiers Point
Crest Birubi Beach
Perched atop Birubi Beach with 180-degree views across the Stockton Bight, Stockton Sand Dunes, and beyond, Crest is a lovely spot for a drink with your lunch, any day of the week.
Where: 73 James Paterson St, Anna Bay
The Deck Cafe Restaurant & Bar
Decompress at The Deck after a long, hot summer’s day. Located at the Soldiers Point Marina, The Deck has breathtaking water views, Mediterranean cuisine, a curated wine list, and handcrafted cocktails.
1/2 Sunset Boulevard, Soldiers Point
Julio’s
For drinks with a Mexican influence, head to Julio’s at Bannisters. With a dedicated margarita menu, Mexican beers, and Jarritos sodas, the drinks list is a dreamy choice for your summer afternoons and evenings.
Where: 147 Soldiers Point Rd, Soldiers Point
Lemon Tree Passage Distilling
If you love locally-distilled gin and vodka, visit Lemon Tree Passage Distilling for a tasting and a cocktail. Fun concoctions include the pink gin margarita, grapefruit negroni, and a selection of mocktails, too.
Where: 7/44 Cook Pde, Lemon Tree Passage
Little Beach Boathouse
With a seafood restaurant upstairs and a casual waterfront bar downstairs, Little Beach Boathouse is the perfect spot for an afternoon drink or an evening cocktail. You might even be lucky and spot a few dolphins.
Where: 4 Victoria Pde, Nelson Bay
Magnolia
A cafe by day and tapas bar by night (from Friday to Sunday), Magnolia is a casual yet buzzing spot at the marina in Nelson Bay. Do as the Spanish do and grab some tapas with your drink – a recipe for a fun evening.
Where: 8 Teramby Rd, Nelson Bay
Mavericks on the Bay
The cocktail list at Mavericks on the Bay is something to behold – there’s the classics (like a mojito and a Long Island iced tea), Mavericks’ signatures (like Everything’s Peachy), and a section each for martinis, margaritas, and spritzes.
Where: d’Albora Marina, 8 Teramby Rd, Nelson Bay
Moby’s Bar
Home to an impressive whiskey selection, creative cocktails, and quality wines, Moby’s Bar is where decadent interiors combine with seaside charm. Located within The Anchorage, it’s a cosy spot to unwind with a drink.
Where: 26 Corlette Point Rd, Corlette
The Poyer’s
Located on the water in Lemon Tree Passage, The Poyer's is a family-owned and operated cafe and restaurant serving up some of the most interesting seafood in Port Stephens, with a quality drinks list to match.
Where: 42 Cook Pde, Lemon Tree Passage
Restaurant 2317
Overlooking the water from its second-storey vantage point, Restaurant 2317 boasts a summery cocktail selection, plenty of wines by the glass and bottle, beers, and non-alcoholic options. There’s something for everyone to drink.
Where: 2 Sunset Blvd, Soldiers Point
Saltwater Restaurant
Featuring a comprehensive cocktail list, plus wine, beer, and mocktails, Saltwater Restaurant has an extensive offering to pair with your meal overlooking Fingal Beach.
Where: Lvl 1, 3 Marine Dr, Fingal Bay
Seabreeze Hotel
For an easygoing pub dinner and cocktail jugs, make your way to the Seabreeze Hotel in Nelson Bay. It’s a great spot for a laidback family dinner or simply a glass of wine to finish off the day.
Where: 1 Stockton St, Nelson Bay
Shoal Bay Country Club
At once a cafe, bar, restaurant, and pub, Shoal Bay Country Club is an expansive venue overlooking the water at – you guessed it – Shoal Bay. Head up to The Kitchen & Patio for a leisurely drink with friends.
Where: 35-45 Shoal Bay Rd, Shoal Bay
Summer Sips by the Sea: Port Stephens’ Best Drinking Spots
From waterfront cocktail bars and relaxed seaside pubs to local distilleries and marina-side lounges, Port Stephens delivers when it comes to summer drinking spots.
Whether you’re sipping margaritas by the beach, enjoying a crisp local wine at the marina, or settling in for a sunset beer with ocean views, this guide highlights the best places to drink in Port Stephens. Perfect for locals and visitors alike, these venues showcase the region’s laidback coastal vibe, quality drinks, and unbeatable water views.
