The South Island’s Top Spots for Bites, Brews and Ocean Views

Situated on the Ōamaru coastline, Del Mar Eatery and Bar effortlessly marries relaxed beach vibes with a good dose of style. Argentinian expats Yanina and Pablo, the couple behind Del Mar, have created a space that celebrates both the coastal life of New Zealand and the heart of family dining. Ocean vistas pour in through panoramic windows, with the interior design taking cues from the sea and shore through splashes of blue, driftwood tones and an abundance of vibrant plant life. The menu is an ocean-inspired feast with standout seafood dishes, hearty stonebaked pizzas, and the must-try housemade gelato. Perfect for those chill Sunday afternoons or a catch-up with a view.

At the Ōtoromiro Hotel, Governor's Bay reveals its hidden charm with unmatched harbour vistas and a solid laid-back vibe. The local haunt, known for its robust pub classics and convivial atmosphere, thrives on simplicity and quality. The outdoor deck is a prized spot for soaking up the sun and scenery, while the cosy fire-warmed interior beckons with a homey allure on cooler days. It's an all-season retreat where a pool or giant chess game can stir up friendly rivalry, and the saltwater pool offers a unique splash of luxury. 

The Boat Shed Café captures the spirit of Nelson's maritime history with its overwater perch and postcard-worthy ocean views. A century-old structure hosts diners within its historic walls, featuring a mosaic of intimate spaces—from a snug loft to the breezy balcony. Local catch stars on the menu, promising a fresh taste of the Tasman with every plate. Indulge in the 'Trust the Chef' experience for an impromptu feast or simply sip on a regional wine as the tides rhythmically lap beneath you. It's casual, it's authentic; it's quintessential seaside dining at its unpretentious best.

Esplanade melds St Clair's coastal charm with a delicious slice of Italy. With a legacy etched into its brick walls, this spot is a year-round draw for its ocean backdrop and hearty Italian plates. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, embodying the Italian flair for feasting amidst the laid-back beachfront vibe of St Clair. Locals flock for the Alsiccia pizza—a fusion of Havoc pork, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic truffle oil on a mozzarella-rich white base. Beyond the delectable fare, the genuine, familial warmth paired with the swell sea views define Esplanade's allure, captivating locals and visitors alike, regardless of the season.

Tucked beneath the Otago Peninsula Road overpass, PLATO buzzes with a quirky retro vibe, a nod to its seafaring past. The harbour-front locale inspires a menu rich with the freshest local fish and seasonal fare. It's the essence of Dunedin on a plate—seasonal, regional and without pretence. With chef Nigel Broad and his daughter at the helm, it's a family affair, delivering honest, hearty meals that highlight the Otago region's incredible bounty. The eclectic array of vintage ceramics that deck the walls adds to the eatery's charm, making PLATO that special kind of memorable dining spot you'll return to time and time again.

Situated on Kaikōura's scenic waterfront, The Pier Hotel is a gem that locals guard jealously – and for good reason. This pub-style eatery dishes up a seafood lover's dream with unbeatable seaside panoramas. With a menu dominated by fresh local catch, crayfish is the undeniable favourite, but the shared seafood platter is a close second. Snag a spot outside for a feast with a view – those mountain silhouettes and ocean vistas are the kind of backdrop you'd love to bottle up and take home with you. And if you're angling for that perfect window seat, better call ahead – they're as coveted as the catch of the day. 

At the Lyttelton Coffee Co, they believe a good coffee should be strong (a triple shot is the standard) and straightforward - no trim milk and no takeaway cups. Since '07, they've been dishing out solid, no-nonsense service and hearty eats, with a side of harbour views that locals love. The vibe? Decidedly laid-back — the kind of spot where you can kick back on the balcony and watch the comings and goings of the port or snag a front seat on market day for some top-notch people-watching. Sustainability's not just a buzzword here; with milk in steel canisters and a composting setup out back, they're walking the talk. No fuss, no frills — just good coffee and good company.

Just a stone's throw from Port Chalmers, Carey's Bay Hotel is a local haunt steeped in Victorian charm that has been warming the hearts and bellies of Dunedin locals since 1874. Known for a seafood spread that'll have you hooked, they reel in the freshest catches from Otago Harbour's doorstep. Inside, you'll find cosy nooks, fires roaring and a prime spot called 'The Snug' for private gatherings. The historic hotel dishes up no-fuss, quality pub grub with a view that rivals the taste of their famed seafood platter. Locals come for the fresh cod and stay for the banter, while the sprawling harbour outlook adds an unbeatable side to every meal.

Dubbed Aotearoa's most scenic fish and chip shop, The Craypot hooks diners with unbeatably fresh kai moana caught straight off the end of the wharf. This caravan-style eatery, a colourful speck against the expansive blue of Jackson Bay, dishes out all the kiwi seafood classics - chowder, crayfish, whitebait, and crispy deep-fried blue cod. Of course, with a side of piping hot chips. Plenty of picturesque walks are nearby to stretch the legs after chowing down on some top-notch tucker. Or soak up the stunning views before driving back to town, and be sure to keep an eye out for dolphins on the way.

At Golden Bear Brewing, the coastal SoCal vibe is all a go, and it's as chill as the beer is cold. With a no-nonsense lineup of craft beers that'd make any hop-head nod in respect, this is where you pair a pint with a taco and call it bloody good. The place has got character, with a past life as an apple crate shed, it's now the go-to joint for locals to let loose to live music with a pint and a view. Perched on the edge of Mapua Wharf, the panorama is as splendid as the brews - the perfect spot for kicking back as the sun dips over the bay.