Jump to: Lake Austin | Lake Travis | Colorado River & East Austin
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 famous Oasis, there are several other local gems where you can enjoy a meal with a view.
These spots will help you tap into your tranquility and leave your Type A tendencies at home.
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Also, check out our articles on the Best Restaurants in Downtown Austin, Meal Delivery Austin, Late Night Food in Austin, and Cheap Eats Austin.
Best Lake Austin Waterfront Restaurants 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 staple for over 65 years. It’s the quintessential Austin “flip-flop” dining spot. You can show up by land or by lake thanks to their convenient boat dock.
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 11 am – 9 p m| 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. It’s a long-standing favorite for those who want Polynesian flavors mixed with Tex-Mex staples right on the water.
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 11 am – 10 pm | Friday 11 am – 11 pm | Saturday 10:30 pm – 11 pm | Sunday 10:30 pm – 10 pm
Where: 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
How Much: $20 – $35 per person
Mozart’s Coffee Roasters
While famous for its holiday light shows, Mozart’s offers a stunning waterfront view of Lake Austin year-round. It is the perfect spot for strong coffee, live music, and a massive patio.
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 Lakehouse ATX Facebook
Voted one of the best “vibe” spots in the country, Quince offers an upscale but energetic dining experience right on the shores of Lake Austin. The menu is global, featuring everything from sushi to high-end steaks.
Operating Hours: Monday – Tuesday 3 pm – 10 pm | Wednesday – Thursday 11 am – 10 pm | Friday 11 am – 11 pm | Saturday 10 am – 11 pm | Sunday 10 am – 9 pm
Where: 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
How Much: $40 – $70 per person
Sundancer Grill
Located right on Lake Travis, Sundancer Grill is a spot to take in the relaxing views of the water while having a tasty meal. They’re open year-round, so you can catch the sights from every season.
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
Top Lake Travis Waterfront Restaurants In Austin
Captain Pete’s Boathouse
Image credit: Captain Pete’s Boathouse Facebook
Located on Point Venture on Lake Travis, Uncle Pete’s Boathouse is a fun and casual spot to have delicious meals. From frozen cocktails to savory lunches, this floating restaurant makes for the perfect getaway, even just for a bit.
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
If you want the world-class Oasis view without the long restaurant wait, head to the brewery. It sits high above Lake Travis and offers some of the best craft beers in the city paired with casual pub fare.
Operating Hours: 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 spot in Briarcliff, The Lighthouse offers a hearty brunch and live music. It’s located directly uphill from the Briarcliff Marina and offers a much quieter, local feel than the main Lake Travis hubs.
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 10:30 am – 9 pm | Friday 10:30 am – 10 pm | Saturday 9 pm – 10 pm | Sunday 9 am – 9 pm
Where: 513 Sleat Dr., Briarcliff, TX 78669
How Much: $20 – $40 per person
Colorado River & East Austin Riverside Restaurants
The County Line on the Lake
Set in a repurposed lake lodge on Bull Creek (which feeds into the river/lake system), this spot has been serving legendary Texas barbecue for decades. It’s ideal for large groups who want to feed the turtles while they wait for brisket.
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11 am – 9 pm | Friday 11 am – 9:30 pm | Saturday 11 am – 10 pm
Where: 5204 FM 2222, Austin, TX 78731
How Much: $20 – $40 per person
Nido
Image credit: Nido at The Loren at Lady Bird Lake Facebook
An accessible wine collection, majestic water and city views, and world-class cuisine, Nido is among the select spots in Austin. This rooftop restaurant is the perfect place for date night!
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
Common Questions about Waterfront Restaurants in Austin
What restaurants does Sandra Bullock own in Austin?
Sandra Bullock previously owned Walton’s Fancy and Staple and Bess Bistro; however, these are not waterfront locations and Bess Bistro has since closed.
What is “Secret Beach” in Austin?
Secret Beach is a sandy area along the banks of the Colorado River inside Roy G. Guerrero Park. While there are no restaurants directly on the sand, Tillery Kitchen is a short drive away.
Are there any waterfront restaurants in Austin you can get to by boat?
Yes! Ski Shores Cafe, Hula Hut, and Quince Lake Austin all offer dock space for those spending the day on Lake 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.