Top 10 Riverside and Beachside Pubs in Brisbane for a Sunny Vibe

Fancy a cold one by the water in Brisbane? The River City’s got a cracking pub scene, with riverside and beachside spots that soak up Queensland’s sunny vibe. These top 10 pubs deliver epic views, great tucker, and the best of Brissy’s laid-back charm—spotfynda’s got the inside scoop for your next arvo out!

Why This List Matters to You

Brisbane’s all about that sunny, outdoor lifestyle, and its riverside and beachside pubs are where the magic happens. Whether you’re sipping a schooner by the Brisbane River or catching the breeze near Moreton Bay, these spots capture the essence of Queensland living. With so many pubs to choose from, it’s easy to miss the real gems, but spotfynda’s done the hard yards for you. We’ve handpicked 10 of the best riverside and beachside pubs that offer stunning views, top-notch grub, and a proper Brissy atmosphere. From historic haunts to modern revamps, this list has something for everyone—plus insider tips to make your visit a ripper.

Explore the Best Riverside and Beachside Pubs in Brisbane

1. Breakfast Creek Hotel

Location: 2 Kingsford Smith Dr, Albion QLD 4010, Australia

Website: breakfastcreekhotel.com

The Breakfast Creek Hotel, a Brisbane icon since 1889, sits along the Brisbane River with a heritage-listed charm that’s hard to beat. Known for its “beer off the wood” (old-school keg beer), this pub offers a tropical beer garden and five distinct bars. The Spanish Garden Steakhouse serves premium cuts like aged rump, paired with river views that make every sip a delight.

Locals Tip: Try the $15 Bev’s Special on weekdays—an aged steak with salad, chips, and a pot of 4X off the wood!

2. The Plough Inn

Location: 29 Stanley St Plaza, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia

Website: theploughinn.com.au

Smack bang in South Bank Parklands, The Plough Inn is a heritage-listed gem with alfresco seating framed by bougainvillea. Overlooking the Brisbane River, it’s a top spot for a cold pint and live music. The menu features pub classics like schnitty, but the prawn and scallop pasta is a standout for a touch of class.

Locals Tip: Pop in on a Sunday arvo for live tunes and a river breeze!

3. Felons Brewing Co

Location: 5 Boundary St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia

Website: felonsbrewingco.com.au

Felons Brewing Co, under the Story Bridge at Howard Smith Wharves, is a sprawling brewery with a long, astroturfed terrace overlooking the Brisbane River. Their craft beers, like the crisp lager, pair perfectly with Asian fusion dishes. The vibe is sun-soaked and lively, ideal for a weekend sesh.

Locals Tip: Grab a beer flight to sample their latest brews while watching the river action!

4. The Charming Squire

Location: 3/133 Grey St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia

Website: thecharmingsquire.com.au

The Charming Squire in South Brisbane is a James Squire brewery with a riverside vibe. Surrounded by glowing barrels and tall windows, it’s a top spot for craft beers and pub grub like schnitzel. The outdoor area offers views of the Brisbane River, making it a beaut spot for a sunny arvo.

Locals Tip: Check out their live music sessions on weekends for a cracking atmosphere!

5. Full Moon Hotel

Location: 118 Eagle Terrace, Sandgate QLD 4017, Australia

Website: fullmoonhotel.com.au

The Full Moon Hotel in Sandgate is a seaside paradise with views of Moreton Bay and the Glasshouse Mountains. Recently renovated, this 100-year-old pub serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a focus on local produce. The circular bar and outdoor tables make it a top spot for a coastal pint.

Locals Tip: Visit for a sunset drink to catch the bay views at their best!

6. Story Bridge Hotel

Location: 200 Main St, Kangaroo Point QLD 4169, Australia

Website: storybridgehotel.com.au

Under the iconic Story Bridge, this Kangaroo Point pub offers riverside views and a rich history since 1886. With three bars and two dining rooms, it’s a local fave. Deery’s Restaurant serves a pork-belly-and-pistachio terrine that pairs perfectly with a cold lager, all while you soak in the river atmosphere.

Locals Tip: Book a spot in Deery’s for a special meal with a view!

7. Regatta Hotel

Location: 543 Coronation Dr, Toowong QLD 4066, Australia

Website: regattahotel.com.au

The Regatta Hotel in Toowong, a heritage-listed beauty since 1874, overlooks the Brisbane River with a stunning deck for alfresco dining. The menu features modern Australian fare like T-bone steak, with a riverside vibe that’s perfect for a sunny arvo. The wraparound verandahs add a touch of old-school charm.

Locals Tip: Hit the deck on a Friday arvo for live music and river breezes!

8. The Pineapple Hotel

Location: 706 Main St, Kangaroo Point QLD 4169, Australia

Website: pineapplehotel.com.au

The Pineapple Hotel in Kangaroo Point is a classic with a glasshouse beer garden and river proximity. Known for its 500g T-bone steak, the pub offers a sunny, laid-back vibe with lawn bowls and live sports. It’s a top spot for a riverside pint and a hearty feed.

Locals Tip: Try the lawn bowls on a Sunday for a fun arvo with mates!

9. Sandgate Post Office Hotel

Location: 1 Bowser Parade, Sandgate QLD 4017, Australia

Website: sandgatepostoffice.com.au

Housed in one of Queensland’s first post offices (built in 1887), this Sandgate pub offers beachside views of Moreton Bay. The menu features classics like schnitzel, with a heritage feel and a light-filled outdoor deck. It’s a beaut spot for a coastal drink.

Locals Tip: Pop in for trivia night to battle it out with the locals!

10. The Morrison Hotel

Location: 640 Stanley St, Woolloongabba QLD 4102, Australia

Website: morrisonhotel.com.au

The Morrison Hotel in Woolloongabba, near the Brisbane River, is a nearly 100-year-old pub turned modern steakhouse and whisky bar. With 22 beers on tap and dishes like duck fat fish and chips, it’s a top spot for a riverside feed with a sunny vibe.

Locals Tip: Try the 500g T-bone steak—it’s a proper feast!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best times to visit Brisbane’s riverside pubs?

Weekdays from 3-6 PM or Sundays from 12-3 PM are ideal for a quieter vibe with river views. Avoid peak Friday and Saturday nights for a more relaxed visit.

Are these pubs suitable for tourists?

Yes! These spots welcome visitors with stunning views and great tucker, and spotfynda’s tips help you navigate like a local. Check websites for bookings.

What makes Brisbane’s riverside pubs unique?

Brisbane’s pubs offer river and beachside views, fresh craft beers, and a laid-back Queensland vibe, perfect for soaking up the sun.

How can I find more dining gems in Brisbane?

spotfynda is your go-to! We uncover unique venues across Australian cities with insider details.

Wrap Up and Explore More

From the historic charm of Breakfast Creek to the beachside beauty of Sandgate, Brisbane’s riverside and beachside pubs bring the sunny vibe to life. These top 10 picks, backed by spotfynda’s insider know-how, are your ticket to a cracking day out by the water. Keen for more? Head over to spotfynda and dive into restaurants, cafes, and bakeries across Australia—your next great adventure awaits!

Top 10 Riverside and Beachside Pubs in Brisbane for a Sunny Vibe

Discover Your Perfect Spot