Beach HQ Phillip Island

Perched right on the waterfront with sweeping views across the bay, Beach HQ is the kind of place visitors gravitate towards for a long lunch or relaxed dinner after a day exploring Phillip Island’s rugged coastline and wildlife attractions. With floor-to-ceiling windows and an expansive deck overlooking the water, the restaurant’s biggest drawcard is undoubtedly its spectacular location, offering one of the island’s most scenic dining outlooks.

The venue has a laidback coastal atmosphere that suits both families and groups of friends, while the broad menu caters to a wide range of tastes. Seafood naturally features heavily, starting with the Lemon Pepper Calamari, where tender calamari is dusted in lemon pepper and paired with rocket salad, ginger lime dressing and chilli mayo. The Chicken Karaage offers an Asian-inspired option, with soy and ginger-marinated fried chicken served alongside rocket salad, ginger-lime dressing and Japanese sesame dressing, while the Pan Fried Mussels arrive simmered in a rich Napoli sauce with chilli and garlic.

For mains, diners are spoiled for choice with everything from seafood-focused dishes to hearty pub-style favourites. The Salmon Fillet is served pan-seared with rocket, cherry tomatoes, capers and shaved fennel tossed through a light honey mustard dressing, making it a lighter option for those wanting something fresh by the water. Seafood lovers may instead gravitate towards the generously loaded Marinara Paella, where arborio rice is combined with chorizo, green peas, mussels, calamari, prawns and barramundi, finished with garlic, chilli and a touch of Napoli sauce.

Those after something more substantial can opt for the Southern Ranges SR+ Scotch Fillet, a premium grass-fed beef scotch fillet accompanied by creamy mashed potato and seasonal vegetables, with a choice of red wine jus or mushroom gravy. Meanwhile, the Classic Smoky Pork Ribs deliver a classic pub-style offering, with slow-cooked pork ribs glazed in Bourbon BBQ sauce and served with thick-cut chips and garden salad.

While the menu spans everything from seafood and steaks to Asian-inspired bites and casual comfort food, Beach HQ’s appeal lies just as much in its atmosphere as its food. The restaurant’s waterfront position makes it an easy place to settle in for a sunset drink, with the ever-changing ocean views providing a memorable backdrop to any meal. Popular with both tourists and locals alike, it’s a convenient dining stop for those wanting to soak up Phillip Island’s relaxed coastal charm while enjoying one of the best water views on the island.

Location: Shop 5/17 The Esplanade, Cowes

Phone: (03) 5952 1717

Menu: beachhq.com.au