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Ocean Breezes Meet Community Spirit: 5 Laid-back Coastal Cafes


From the sun-drenched beaches of Terrigal to the harbour vistas of Wollongong, New South Wales is home to a vibrant coastal café scene where ocean breezes and community spirit meet over perfectly brewed coffee.

Each café tells its own story of place and personality - from Bellyfish’s relaxed seaside charm to Black Dingo’s contemporary riverside retreat, Black Poison’s urban calm, Estabar’s breezy oceanfront elegance and Levendi’s harbourside allure.

Together, they capture the essence of NSW’s laid-back lifestyle, where the simple pleasures of good food, warm company and coastal beauty come together in perfect harmony by the sea.


Bellyfish Café in Terrigal captures the essence of relaxed coastal living. Perched just steps from the golden sands of Terrigal Beach, it offers a bright, airy space where ocean breezes mingle with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Large windows frame sweeping views of the Pacific, while the sound of the surf creates a tranquil backdrop.
 
Ocean Breezes Meet Community Spirit: 5 Laid-back Coastal Cafes

The café’s design blends natural timbers, soft tones and open spaces that invite both locals and travellers to linger. Whether for a sunrise breakfast or a lazy afternoon brunch, Bellyfish embodies the easy charm and seaside warmth of Terrigal’s laid-back café culture.


Black Dingo Café in Tweed Heads offers a welcoming coastal retreat infused with contemporary charm. Nestled near the scenic Tweed River and just moments from the surf, it embraces the relaxed rhythm of seaside life. The café’s open, sunlit interiors feature earthy textures and greenery that reflect the surrounding landscape.
 
Ocean Breezes Meet Community Spirit: 5 Laid-back Coastal Cafes
 
Visitors can enjoy the gentle hum of the ocean breeze and glimpses of blue water through wide windows or outdoor seating. With its friendly atmosphere and connection to the coast, Black Dingo Café is a perfect spot to unwind, savour fresh flavours and soak in the easy-going spirit of Tweed Heads.


Black Poison café in Five Dock blends urban edge with a hint of coastal calm. Located near the sparkling waters of Iron Cove, it captures the relaxed essence of Sydney’s inner-west bayside. The café’s sleek black accents and warm timber tones create a modern yet welcoming space, where the aroma of fresh coffee drifts through open doors to the street.
 
Ocean Breezes Meet Community Spirit: 5 Laid-back Coastal Cafes

Sunlight spills across polished surfaces as locals gather for conversation or quiet reflection. With gentle breezes and leafy surrounds, Black Poison offers a tranquil escape that celebrates the easy flow between city life and the soothing rhythm of the coast.


Estabar in Newcastle City is a coastal gem that perfectly mirrors its oceanfront setting. Overlooking the rolling surf of Newcastle Beach, the café exudes a breezy, sun-kissed charm that captures the rhythm of seaside life. Its light-filled interior blends natural wood, soft hues and salty air drifting through open windows.
 
Ocean Breezes Meet Community Spirit: 5 Laid-back Coastal Cafes

Locals and travellers alike gather here to watch the waves, sip coffee and savour the relaxed coastal atmosphere. The sound of the sea provides a soothing soundtrack, while the view of endless blue horizon invites calm reflection. Estabar embodies Newcastle’s vibrant beach culture with effortless warmth and understated coastal elegance.


Levendi at Wollongong Harbour sits at the heart of the city’s picturesque foreshore, where the sea meets the sky in a panorama of blue. Overlooking calm harbour waters and the curve of North Beach, it offers a front-row seat to Wollongong’s vibrant coastal life. The café’s open-air setting captures the scent of salt and sea breeze, inviting visitors to linger by the water’s edge.
 
Ocean Breezes Meet Community Spirit: 5 Laid-back Coastal Cafes

Sailboats drift past as locals stroll along the promenade, creating a scene of relaxed energy. With its blend of ocean views, casual charm and seaside ambience, Levendi perfectly reflects Wollongong’s laid-back coastal spirit.

Featured Locations

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Levendi Wollongong Harbour

Perched right on the edge of the water at Wollongong Harbour, Levendi café on Cliff Road is the kind of spot that feels like a mini holiday every time you visit. Sea breezes drift through as you se...

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Black Dingo Cafe

Think ocean breezes on your face, your favourite brew in hand and tunes floating in the air – that’s what awaits Tweed Heads foodies at Black Dingo Café on Tweed Terrace. Head to this café for dog-...

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Estabar

With stunning views over Newcastle Beach, Estabar on Shortland Street is a coastal gem celebrating seasonal, local produce in a relaxed yet refined setting. This light-filled café exudes beachside ...

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Bellyfish Cafe

Head to bustling beachside eatery Bellyfish Café on Terrigal Esplanade in Terrigal for quality coffee and all-day brunch offerings. Soak up rays alfresco on balmy days with water views and a cappuc...

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Black Poison

Tucked into a converted industrial warehouse in Sydney’s Inner West, Black Poison on Queens Road in Five Dock is a family-run cafe and bakery built on tradition, creativity and community. The space...

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