Nine culinary delights that will enrich any visit along the Indian Ocean Drive.
From local craft beers in a nautical microbrewery to artisanal coffee served with a side of coastal views, the food and beverage scene along Indian Ocean Drive has something to pique everyone’s tastebuds.
Nestled right along the picturesque Port Denison Marina, Southerly’s Harbour View Bar and Restaurant is a family-owned gem run by local legends; Sonya and Callum. Warmly welcoming everyone who enters the tavern, Southerlys truly feels like an extension of home - where every guest is treated like part of the family. With Sonya and Callum being big…
Nestled right along the picturesque Port Denison Marina, Southerly’s Harbour View Bar and Restaurant is a family-owned gem run by local legends; Sonya and Callum. Warmly welcoming everyone who enters the tavern, Southerlys truly feels like an extension of home - where every guest is treated like part of the family.
With Sonya and Callum being big believers in supporting local, their menu naturally provides a (delicious) reflection of the Irwin region’s diverse offerings. Dishes feature local treasures such as succulent Abrolhos Island oysters, fresh Dongara crayfish and grass-fed Midwest beef. Open for lunch and dinner daily, standout dishes are wide ranging; from their award winning irwin steak sandwich to their sizzling chicken fajitas, there’s something for everyone (even the kiddies have their own menu). And if you’re still not sure what you’re craving, why not try one of their brand new pizza offerings (complete with fresh doughy bases).
Whether you’re unwinding inside the character-filled bar, relaxing outside under the twinkling fairy lights, or you’re soaking up the sea breeze (and view!) in the courtyard, just like home, there’s a place for every taste and every person. Our favourite? Coming for sunset and watching as the sun slowly disappears over the marina. Made even better with a cold southerly’s ale in hand!
More than just a place to eat— southerly’s is a community, where great food and good times seamlessly go hand in hand. Plan a visit.
A trip along the Indian Ocean Drive isn’t complete without visiting the iconic (and delicious!) Lobster Shack in Cervantes. Famous for its award-winning Western Rock lobster, the Lobster Shack is the place to be at lunchtime each day! Open daily from 9am to 5pm, with lunch served between 11am and 3pm, the menu has something for everyone—lobster…
A trip along the Indian Ocean Drive isn’t complete without visiting the iconic (and delicious!) Lobster Shack in Cervantes. Famous for its award-winning Western Rock lobster, the Lobster Shack is the place to be at lunchtime each day!
Open daily from 9am to 5pm, with lunch served between 11am and 3pm, the menu has something for everyone—lobster lover or not. Standouts include their famous lobster roll and fresh lobster, but the seafood chowder and squid rings are also crowd favorites! Kids are covered too with the Shack’s aptly named little clackers menu and on-site shipwreck playground, making it a great spot for the whole family. Not a seafood fan? No worries—the Shack also offers classics like chicken Caesar salads, steak sandwiches, and tacos.
Dine under a striped umbrella on the spacious deck, instantly relaxing as you take in Cervantes’ sparkling blue waters. Just watch out for the opportunistic seagulls (big lobster fans!) and adorable local sea lions who might pop up in the water. Prefer indoors? The restaurant offers a fun nautical atmosphere, perfect for sipping a lobster lager. Plan a visit.
Nestled right along the picturesque Cervantes beach foreshore, and at the entrance to the RAC Cervantes Holiday Park, Seashells Cafe is the perfect spot to unwind after a morning spent exploring the Pinnacles. Open daily from 8am to 2pm, this classic and casual cafe offers a truly friendly and relaxed atmosphere, made even better with their…
Nestled right along the picturesque Cervantes beach foreshore, and at the entrance to the RAC Cervantes Holiday Park, Seashells Cafe is the perfect spot to unwind after a morning spent exploring the Pinnacles.
Open daily from 8am to 2pm, this classic and casual cafe offers a truly friendly and relaxed atmosphere, made even better with their uninterrupted ocean views.
Stop by for breakfast and enjoy one of their cervantes-famous milkshakes and classic big brekkies, or stay for lunch and feast on one of their yummy burgers, blt’s or of course, try one of their local seafood dishes (their crumbed squid is divine). If you’re after something a little less substantial, seashells has you covered there too! offering a range of delicious home-made cakes and slices which pair wonderfully with their perfectly made barista coffees; your mid morning (or mid afternoon) pick me up is easily sorted.
Choose from dining outside on their cosy deck, or sit inside the relaxed cafe and enjoy the laid back coastal vibes; truly unique to Cervantes.
For more info see here.
Discover Dongara Bakery, a true local institution celebrated for its fresh homemade pies and delicious sweets. This beloved spot is a staple for locals and visitors alike, offering everything an Aussie bakery should—from good ol’ custard squares to tasty vegemite and cheese scrolls and every loaf your heart (or tummy) desires. Open daily, this…
Discover Dongara Bakery, a true local institution celebrated for its fresh homemade pies and delicious sweets. This beloved spot is a staple for locals and visitors alike, offering everything an Aussie bakery should—from good ol’ custard squares to tasty vegemite and cheese scrolls and every loaf your heart (or tummy) desires.
Open daily, this time-honoured bakery delights with golden, flaky pies and sausage rolls—think trusty favourites like pepper steak, chicken and vegetable, beef and potato, plus adventurous combos like seafood, chilli beef, and our favourite, butter chicken. Feeling more sweet than savoury? Be ready for tough choices! Cabinets filled to the brim with custard tarts, fudgy hedgehog, caramel slices, rocky road, and fresh apple turnovers.
Every item comes with a welcoming smile and pairs wonderfully with their barista-made coffees. Choose to sit inside the old-fashioned bakery (limited seating) or enjoy a hot coffee and treat in one of Dongara’s beautiful parks (we recommend Town Park, just across the road)!
Find out more here
Located right in the heart of the new foreshore precinct, Jurien Bay Beach Cafe is open daily from sunrise to sunset for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This charming cafe invites you to soak in its spectacular ocean and jetty views while you dine on all of your favourite foods. Whether you’re here for a morning coffee brewed to perfection or a…
Located right in the heart of the new foreshore precinct, Jurien Bay Beach Cafe is open daily from sunrise to sunset for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This charming cafe invites you to soak in its spectacular ocean and jetty views while you dine on all of your favourite foods.
Whether you’re here for a morning coffee brewed to perfection or a leisurely lunch featuring some of the best burgers around, you’re in for a treat. The cabinet is brimming with delicious slices and sweets that pair wonderfully with a hot (or cold) drink. For seafood lovers, the cafe serves up fresh catches straight from Western Australian waters.
Opening hours are 6am to 6pm daily, with the exception of Friday and Saturday nights where closing is extended until 8pm so you can make the most of a weekend dinner. Come for your early morning coffee fix and smashed avo’ on toast, try their tasty new nachos for lunch, or dine on their well-loved fish and chips while the sun slowly sets in front of you.
With its stunning views, relaxed vibes, and wide-ranging menu, Jurien Bay Beach Cafe really is where great food and beautiful scenery meet. Explore more.
Inspired by the Greek word for pouring one's heart into their craft, this cafe delivers an experience as rich as its meaning. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted with high-quality barista coffee that’s not only brewed to perfection but also presented with an artistry that will have you pausing just to admire the creation. The…
Inspired by the Greek word for pouring one's heart into their craft, this cafe delivers an experience as rich as its meaning. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted with high-quality barista coffee that’s not only brewed to perfection but also presented with an artistry that will have you pausing just to admire the creation.
The sweet treats are a visual feast - homemade cakes and pastries that look so good you might hesitate to dig in... but only for a moment. The breakfast menu contains all of your favourites, served daily from 7am, with lunch (and the café) closing at 2pm. Whether you’re craving classics or something a bit more adventurous, Meraki has you covered. They also offer a variety of fresh juices and smoothies, with the option to create your own perfect blend.
With a charming ambience that invites you to stay a while, Meraki Cafe is the ideal spot to start your day or enjoy a midday break. Come experience the true meaning of Meraki, and see for yourself why this little café is so popular with the locals.Find out more.
Set in the heart of Dongara, Pannarai Café and Restaurant is the perfect spot to relax and unwind—especially with a delicious, barista-made coffee in hand. Open from 8:30am to 2:30pm Thursday through Tuesday, Pannarai serves sweet treats, breakfast, and lunch (and of course, coffee!). Their menus feature all your classic favorites, but if you’re…
Set in the heart of Dongara, Pannarai Café and Restaurant is the perfect spot to relax and unwind—especially with a delicious, barista-made coffee in hand.
Open from 8:30am to 2:30pm Thursday through Tuesday, Pannarai serves sweet treats, breakfast, and lunch (and of course, coffee!). Their menus feature all your classic favorites, but if you’re after something lighter, their cabinets offer homemade slices, giant muffins, and their locally famous scones—baked light, fluffy, and absolutely delicious.
Relax in cozy indoor nooks with mismatched vintage furniture and comfy armchairs, or sit outside in their lush green garden—a hidden oasis in the middle of town.
By night (5:00pm to 8:30pm, Thursday through Tuesday), Pannarai transforms into an intimate restaurant, serving authentic Thai and Chinese dishes. Each dish is full of flavor and spices, but the green chicken curry, pad thai, and chicken satay are beloved for a reason. Visit now.
Located in Jurien Bay, Screaming Mudlark stands out with its unwavering commitment to serve high-quality coffee every time. Imagine the coffee you’d get in Melbourne’s bustling CBD, but with the laid-back vibe of a small fishing town in Western Australia. This café proudly features a La Marzocco espresso machine from Florence, Italy, and an Anfim…
Located in Jurien Bay, Screaming Mudlark stands out with its unwavering commitment to serve high-quality coffee every time. Imagine the coffee you’d get in Melbourne’s bustling CBD, but with the laid-back vibe of a small fishing town in Western Australia.
This café proudly features a La Marzocco espresso machine from Florence, Italy, and an Anfim Spii Plus grinder for precise, consistent grinding. Beyond stellar espresso, the café offers American filter coffee and specialty iced coffees—think Biscoff, Malteaser, and Nutella varieties.
Each coffee is served in vibrant, colorful dog cups, adding a playful touch to the experience. There’s even a pile of coffee grounds for garden enthusiasts to take home. With a small outdoor area overlooking a pond and gardens, it’s a perfect spot to relax. From babychinos to pup-chinos, there’s something for everyone, including little ones and furry friends.
Named after the mudlark owner Robin rescued last year, Screaming Mudlark is a must-visit for coffee lovers and a true inspiration. Find out more here.
Nestled in Jurien Bay’s industrial area, Kakka Alley is a microbrewery offering an unforgettable experience for beer lovers and families. Owned by local legend Steve, a seasoned fisherman with over 25 years of experience, this nautical-themed venue transports you to sea the moment you step along the cobbled path. Inside, delightful touches like…
Nestled in Jurien Bay’s industrial area, Kakka Alley is a microbrewery offering an unforgettable experience for beer lovers and families. Owned by local legend Steve, a seasoned fisherman with over 25 years of experience, this nautical-themed venue transports you to sea the moment you step along the cobbled path. Inside, delightful touches like fish-lure beer taps, hanging seagulls, rustic buoys, and old life rings catch your eye.
Outside, picnic tables, a grassy area, and a playground make it perfect for a family outing. Sip a local brew while the kids play, or make this your go-to for a classic Sunday sesh.
With ‘Kakka’ nodding to undersized crayfish, the sea-inspired menu features locally sourced seafood, including the standout Kakka Alley Seafood pizza topped with prawns and crayfish and the Bee Sting, drizzled with rich honey.
No matter the day, Kakka Alley offers friendly vibes, delicious brews, and a laid-back atmosphere where everyone feels at home—or at sea. For more info, see here.
This guide has been created in partnership with Charlotte & James Maddock (@cjmaddock).