Lake Coolangatta Café with Lisa McAskill in the Fleurieu Peninsula region of South Australia

What used to be known as the old Aldinga Beach Hut has been given a new lease on life. In the 60s and 70s it was a magnet for local kids in search of a Woodies lemonade and a Dandy ice cream. Today, it’s known as the Coolangatta Café and according to the group of Perth holidaymakers we caught up with it doesn't get much better.

“I don't know why we go to Bali and Fiji because we've got it all here in Australia,” laughed one person. “It's absolutely wonderful. All that's missing is the little boys offering massages on the beach.”

Lake Coolangatta Cafe boasts spectacular views of Gulf Saint Vincent and the headlands of the Fleurieu Peninsula stretching into the distance. It’s at Silver Sands only an hour’s drive from Adelaide and it offers a wide range of dishes.

From salt and pepper squid to tuna steaks, snapper cutlets and classic Thai prawn dishes - it’s all on offer at an ideal location. The idea for a seafood restaurant had been germinating in the minds of two locals for a long time. Shane Ortis and business partner Meredith Riley were two of those kids in the 60s and 70s who knew the delights of the old Aldinga Beach Hut. And as they grew up nearby knew it could be so much more.

“I spent my whole childhood coming over here and buying the lollies and ice-creams,” said Shane. “So it means a lot to us as locals. We had the idea that we could put some good food in here and use this beautiful scenery. It's the jewel in the crown of the south.

“We always thought that somebody would do something with this place... but just didn't realise it would be us.”

The restaurant also offers a feast of local artwork showcasing many of the stunning locations up and down the coast and one out the back, from which the cafe derives its name. In winter, the wetland just off Coolangatta Drive fills - hence the name, Lake Coolangatta Cafe. But it's the expanse of beach and blue water that has restaurant goers captivated.

“They're amazed by our view and our glorious beach,” said Meredith. “I think a lot of people are stunned by the quality of the dining experience that they can get here with the rusticness of it all. Everybody loves it.”

Lake Coolangatta Cafe is at 1 Norman Road, Aldinga. To book phone 8557 4000.

Lake Coolangatta Cafe
1 Norman Road
Aldinga Beach
Open Thurs to Sunday for lunch Fri and Sat for dinner
Phone (08) 8557 4000