Jump to: Lake Austin Waterfront Spots | Lake Travis Lakeside Eats | Lady Bird Lake Dining
Austin summers have a way of turning our thoughts to water—whether it’s swimming in it or enjoying a view of it from a fabulous patio. Our city is blessed with heavenly bodies of water and cool restaurants overlooking them. While everyone knows the massive Oasis complex, there are several other local gems where you can enjoy a great meal with an unbeatable view.
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Best Waterfront Dining Austin Options on Lake Austin
Ski Shores Cafe
Image credit: Ski Shores Cafe Facebook
This charming, casual restaurant on Lake Austin oozes happy lake vibes and has been a local staple for over 65 years. It’s the quintessential Austin “flip-flop” dining spot where you can show up by land or by boat thanks to its convenient dock access.
Enjoy classic burgers, fried catfish, and cold drinks right along the water’s edge.
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 11 am – 9 pm | Saturday – Sunday 9 am – 9 pm
Where: 2905 Pearce Road, Austin, TX 78730
How Much: $15 – $25 per person
Hula Hut
Hula Hut serves “Mexican food with a surfer twist” and features classic tiki decor and bamboo walls right over Lake Austin. It’s a long-standing favorite for those who want Polynesian flavors mixed with Tex-Mex staples right on the water.
Relax on the outdoor pier with a signature cocktail and enjoy famous dishes like tubular tacos and Hawaiian fajitas.
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 11 am – 10 pm | Friday 11 am – 11 pm | Saturday 10:30 am – 11 pm | Sunday 10:30 am – 10 pm
Where: 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
How Much: $20 – $35 per person
Mozart’s Coffee Roasters
While famous for its annual holiday light shows, Mozart’s offers a stunning waterfront view of Lake Austin year-round. It is the perfect spot for strong in-house roasted coffee, fresh bakery treats, live music, and relaxing on a massive outdoor deck.
Stop by in the morning for espresso or in the evening for dessert and scenic water views.
Operating Hours: Daily 7 am – 12 am
Where: 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
How Much: $5 – $15 per person
Quince Lake Austin
Image credit: quince.atx @Instagram
Voted one of the best “vibe” spots in the country, Quince offers an upscale yet energetic dining experience right on the shores of Lake Austin. The global menu features everything from sushi to high-end steaks, all accompanied by prime views of the water.
It’s ideal for celebratory dinners, date nights, or vibrant weekend brunches by the lake.
Operating Hours: Monday – Tuesday 3 pm – 10 pm | Wednesday – Friday 11 am – 10 pm | Saturday 10 am – 10 pm | Sunday 10 am – 9 pm
Where: 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
How Much: $40 – $70 per person
Top Lake Travis Restaurants & Lakeside Eats
Sundancer Grill
Located at the Sail & Ski Yacht Club on Lake Travis, Sundancer Grill offers a relaxing atmosphere paired with bistro-style lakeside dining. The menu features fresh seafood, steaks, and salads designed by Executive Chef Jamieson Lowe.
It’s open year-round, giving diners sweeping views of the marina and lake from comfortable indoor and outdoor seating.
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 11 am – 10 pm | Saturday – Sunday 9 am – 10 pm
Where: 16410 Stewart Rd, Lakeway, TX 78734
How Much: $10 – $25 per person
Captain Pete’s Boathouse
Located at Point Venture on Lake Travis, Captain Pete’s Boathouse is a fun floating restaurant serving up casual meals directly on the water. From cold drinks to seafood and burgers, it provides a true lake getaway experience.
It’s a great destination whether you drive over or dock your boat right at the restaurant.
Operating Hours: Daily 11 am – 10 pm
Where: 18200 Lakepoint Cove, Point Venture, TX 78645
How Much: $10 – $20 per person
Oasis Texas Brewing Company
Image Credit: Oasis Texas Brewing Company FB Page
If you want the world-class Lake Travis sunset view without the long dining wait times, head to Oasis Texas Brewing Company. Perched high above the lake, it offers award-winning craft beers paired with pub favorites.
Sit out on the deck, order a pint, and enjoy one of the best panoramic sunset views in Central Texas.
Operating Hours: Monday – Tuesday Closed| Taproom: Wednesday – Thursday & Sunday 12 pm – 9 pm | Friday – Saturday 12 pm – 10 pm || Kitchen: Wednesday – Thursday & Sunday 12 pm – 8 pm | Friday – Saturday 12 pm – 9 pm
Where: 6650 Comanche Trail Suite #301, Austin, TX 78732
How Much: $15 – $30 per person
The Lighthouse Restaurant & Lounge
A maritime-themed dining destination in Briarcliff, The Lighthouse offers delicious casual fare, hearty brunch options, and live music. Located directly uphill from Briarcliff Marina, it delivers a relaxed local feel away from the busier lake spots.
Enjoy outdoor seating with pristine water views and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 10:30 am – 9 pm | Friday 10:30 am – 10 pm | Saturday 9 am – 10 pm | Sunday 9 am – 9 pm
Where: 513 Sleat Dr, Briarcliff, TX 78669
How Much: $20 – $40 per person
Lady Bird Lake Dining & Downtown Waterfront Spots
The County Line on the Lake
Set in an old lodge on Bull Creek (which feeds directly into the Lake Austin/Colorado River system), this spot has been serving legendary Texas barbecue for decades. The peaceful, tree-shaded patio sits right beside the water.
It’s ideal for families and large groups looking to enjoy slow-smoked brisket while feeding the turtles by the water.
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11 am – 9 pm | Friday 11 pm – 9:30 pm | Saturday 11 am – 10 pm
Where: 5204 FM 2222, Austin, TX 78731
How Much: $20 – $40 per person
Nido
Image Credit: thelorenhotels.com
Perched atop The Loren at Lady Bird Lake, Nido offers breathtaking views of Lady Bird Lake and the downtown Austin skyline. Featuring curated wines and modern American cuisine, it provides a sophisticated setting for date nights and special occasions.
Enjoy floor-to-ceiling windows or outdoor balcony seating overlooking the water.
Operating Hours: Breakfast: Daily 7 am – 11 am || Brunch: Saturday – Sunday 11 am – 2:30 pm || Lunch: Monday – Friday 11 am – 2:30 pm || Bar Snacks: Daily 2:30 pm – 5 pm || Dinner: Sunday – Thursday 5 pm – 10 pm | Friday – Saturday 5 pm – 11 pm
Where: Rooftop, 1211 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
How Much: $50 – $100 per person
Know Before You Go
While many of these waterfront dining options are situated directly within central Austin along Lake Austin or Lady Bird Lake, several top options are spread across nearby Greater Austin communities like Lakeway, Westlake, and Briarcliff. Depending on traffic and location, most spots are easily accessible within a 20-30 minute drive from downtown or surrounding suburbs. If you plan on visiting during peak sunset hours or warm summer weekends, reservations or early arrivals are highly recommended.
Common Questions about Waterfront Dining in Austin
Are there any waterfront restaurants in Austin you can get to by boat?
Yes! Spots like Ski Shores Cafe, Hula Hut, and Quince Lake Austin offer dock access on Lake Austin so boaters can tie up and grab a meal. Over on Lake Travis, venues like Sundancer Grill and Captain Pete’s Boathouse are easily accessible from nearby marina docks.
What are the best casual or flip-flop waterfront spots?
Ski Shores Cafe and Captain Pete’s Boathouse offer laid-back, family-friendly atmospheres where casual lake attire is completely welcome.
Where can I get waterfront dining views near downtown Austin?
Nido at The Loren provides sweeping rooftop views of Lady Bird Lake and downtown, while Hula Hut and Mozart’s on Lake Austin are just a short drive from Central Austin.
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Uh, you forgot Beachside Billys at Volente Beach, the one that arguably has some of the best food. Burgers, Wings and Pizza to Ahi Tuna, Salmon and Tenderloin. The best Mac and Cheese in town. It also has live acoustic music every Friday Saturday Sunday. It has the only sandy beach and lake front swimming area in Austin. Also the only outdoor game area with washers and cornhole. It is DIRECTLY on the water and you can actually get in it and swim. Also, 3 bars with awesome cocktails. You should come try it.