In and around Adelaide we are blessed with beaches that outshine the eastern seaboard capitals for their blue water, scenic vistas and relative lack of crowds. But where can we go for the quintessential seaside cafe experience?
Having lived near Port Phillip Bay beaches for years, I'm used to being able to enjoy the beach from the comfort of the dozens of cafes on the beach side of the Esplanade in Melbourne. Your children can be building sandcastles in front of the deck, your partner can be stand-up paddleboarding or kite surfing, and you can be right there with them, enjoying a caffeine fix or a scrumptious bite to eat.
I've trawled Weekend Notes in search of great seaside cafes in and around Adelaide. Here is what I've found.
1.
Hallett Cove Boatshed Cafe. Review by Jenny Rossiter January 2014
Surprisingly, this cafe's website doesn't include any location photos. However I've found this to be a great place to go before or after a walk along the coastline or through the Conservation Park. It doesn't hit my trifecta of cafe, sand play and watersports, but it is close. You might see a dolphin or even a whale if you are lucky, which is pretty good compensation.
2.
Deep Blue Cafe, Moana Review by Erin Jade, August 2013
With a road between the cafe and the beach, you'll need to keep your littlies with you or get your water-loving mate to supervise. But Deep Blue Cafe has the atmosphere of an old-time beach hangout and long may it stay that way.
3.
The Reef Restaurant and Cafe Review by Katharine, May 2012
I might have hit the jackpot here. But Granite Island's a long way to go to check it out for myself, and is more of a day trip than a happy hour at the beach.
4.
Flying Fish Cafe & Restaurant Review by Natasha Stewart, December 2011
This certainly looks the goods, thanks to this photo on the Cafe's website. But Port Eliot is as far away as Granite Island. Surely I can achieve my trifecta somewhere in Adelaide!!
Weekend Notes readers, I need your help. Where is the best seaside cafe in or around Adelaide?
