13 must-visit outdoor dining spots on The Bellarine

For those days where you need to refuel post-beach swim or simply want to dine outdoors under blue skies and sunshine, hit up this list for some top al fresco dining options on The Bellarine.

Absolute waterside frontage in Queenscliff with outdoor dining overlooking the boats in the harbour. The menu is diverse, from vibrant Asian-inspired dishes to long-time favourites such as Lemon Pepper Calamari and Kingfish Ceviche.

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Visual feasting for the eyes. Breakfast and lunch surrounded by shelves stacked with local and global flavours. From world-class cheeses to small-batch oils and jams, it’s a colourful, curated pantry that food lovers dream about.

The best seats in the house are still under the vines, al fresco style. Let the sun warm your face as you take in the buzz of Hitchcock Avenue and enjoy the easy, welcoming charm that makes Annie’s a Barwon Heads favourite.

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Located on the hill overlooking Portarlington foreshore, Arlo Wine Bar is a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. Grab a seat along the deck bar-seating which wraps around the restaurant, or at the casual al fresco seating outside.

Views are in big supply here as are the Italian-inspired fare, wines and vibes. This venue is run by the same team behind Pier St and a hatted chef.

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With sweeping views over Sway Bay to Queenscliff much of the delicious food served in the restaurant is grown in the sweet kitchen garden.

Outdoor dining is a fantastic option with children, they can play while you swill. You can even bring your pooch while seated outside (just give the heads up when booking).

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Overlooks Corio Bay with two chief wine labels – Bellarine Estate and Portarlington Ridge. They have a gin distillery on the property – Thirty Acres Distillery – as well as a cellar door and Texas BBQ restaurant.

Picnic tables let the dining stretch outdoors on those sunny days. And you can even glamp on site.

FarmDog Brewing brings together craft beer, boutique gin and local wine, all with views across the vines. Lunch is easy here, with pizzas, platters and burgers that match perfectly with whatever’s pouring.

Everything is brewed and distilled onsite, and the team are always happy to share a few tips about grains, botanicals and flavours. Grab a beer paddle or a gin tasting board, find a sunny spot outside and enjoy the relaxed energy of this Wallington favourite. And yes, there is a farm dog!

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Easy to access and with ample space to roam, Flying Brick Cider House has lush green lawns dotted with bean bags and tables for the perfect sunny day out.

Flying Brick ciders are made from gathering, pressing and fermenting Victorian apples and Packham pears – no added sugars, colours or concentrates. Taste a few and figure out your favourite – there’s original, draught or pear plus some creative limited releases.

The latest restaurant to open on The Bellarine, Hidden Frog Restaurant has been almost 10 years in the making. Located on the Quiddity Place property, the 60-plus-acre site boasts coastal views, two galleries, a cellar door, accommodation and Hidden Frog Restaurant.

At the restaurant, enjoy modern Australian cuisine crafted by Head Chef Dwayne Bourke paired with award-winning Oakdene Vineyard wines. The large deck and al fresco space overlooks the vineyards and bay views and is a location you could easily lose a few hours to. Don't forget you can also stay the night!

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Jack Rabbit looks out over the sparkling bay and You Yangs with a fine dining restaurant as well as a café. Wine tastings are delivered a little differently – drop in to discover a ‘z blade’.

Find a table outdoors and take in the iconic views and equally impressive wine and food.

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Known for their Sunday sessions and live music. You can dine in the ‘Opera House-esque’ pod or on the outdoor terrace and the menu is diverse – from charcuterie to an eye fillet steak sandwich.

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With its unbeatable location on the Portarlington foreshore, Pier Street brings together fresh local flavours and stunning bay views. The menu highlights seafood caught right from the surrounding waters and seasonal produce, creating dishes that feel both local and special. It’s the kind of place where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the easy charm of coastal dining, whether you’re stopping in for lunch or a relaxed dinner.

James Halliday has given Scotchmans Hill five stars for two decades and also ranks it among the top 100 wineries in the country. And that’s not the only thing they excel in.

The views across the bay and the old homestead are striking and so are the carefully considered meals at the restaurant. There are ample spots for outdoor dining and over summer options expand further with the Wine Terrace.

You’re spoilt for choice at Terindah Estate with several indoor and outdoor spaces with most providing uninterrupted views of Corio Bay.

The à la carte offering includes delicacies such as braised short rib, truffle pomme purée, buttered mushrooms and Zinfandel jus.

Then hop aboard ‘Peter’s Odyssey’ Tram Bar or order a bottle and lounge on the deck at the cellar door.