Marina Balaena restaurant - Urangan, Queensland

Owen T.

Pleasantly surprised with this underrated Asian fusion gem... When traveling, I am reliant on Google reviews for my dining reservations. The mixed ratings at this restaurant were a concern which took us to a much higher rated restaurant on our first night, but the food and service there wasn't to our liking. Compared to several other restaurants we have dined at, we found the prices of food and even more so, wines by the bottle to be very good. On our first visit, we shared the scallop starter, I had the lamb shank and my wife the prawn pasta. We were instructed on the proper way to eat the scallops and they were excellent! The lamb was mostly traditional, but a little Vietnamese twist which I thoroughly enjoyed. The prawn pasta was good, but maybe a bit too integrated, if that makes sense. On our second visit it was Sunday / Asian night and we shared the tofu starter salad (amazing!!!) and I had the Bay Bug and Shrimp dinner and my wife had the lemongrass chicken. Portions were generous and the BB /Shrimp was excellent flavours. We both felt that the chicken could use a little more lemongrass highlights and similiar to the previous pasta, less integration / more individual flavours. Staff were friendly and helpful. And the menu is a good mix that provides enough options for a diverse group, without being overwhelming. Highly recommend as the best of our dining experiences in this area. The lamb shank picture was taken after I started but had been very nicely presented.

claudia F.

Awesome views. The chicken starter is amazing. The lamb shank was good. The pork also good. Prices are on the higher side which is fine as long as you're getting quality. Unfortunately the king prawn dish is a totally over priced dish. 4 small prawns and 2 pieces of bread for $34. No rice or other items. Sold as a main but is a really small starter and the price is too high, prawns werent even big.
They could bulk up their plates with some extra starch which isn't going to cost them much but make their prices more reasonable.

Sticky date was good. Cake was on the drier side but was nice with the cream and ice cream.

Susan T.

Looking for a delicious LOBSTER in town? Come here. It is the best. We did have to pre order a couple of days before.
All dishes were sensational.
Had to go back the next day for more.
Staff try, but are just a bit slow and green 💚
One member by the name of Ruby, was outstanding.
All very sweet and well mannered though.
Looking out on the water with all the luxurious yachts and blue skies was dreamily relaxing.

Jocelyn J.

Had tapas lunch with my partner. We absolutely loved it. Food and drinks were delicious and they were plated beautifully. They came out quick, service was good, price is on cheaper/affordable side (in our opinion) and view is stunning! Love the ambience ! 10/10 will definitely go back, maybe for dinner next time!

Ash A.

“We visited on Sunday night, the first night of their new Asian menu. The food was so good that we forgot to take photos, just only two of these photos. We were too eager to start eating! The service was excellent, and the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming. We’ll be back to try more of the menu!”

Bret O.

My wife and I visit this restaurant regularly and we are always amazed with our dishes service and beautiful atmosphere well done guys our Favourite restaurant in Hervey Bay YUMMY

Bret and Sophie

Dione P.

Great food, great service- friendly and helpful staff. Wide selection of food to suit all dietary requirements. Fantastic setting- our family keeps returning as the quality is always consistent. Great value for money, a hidden gem 💎

Yank D.

We’re visiting from overseas and had such a great experience at this restaurant. The staff were welcoming and made us feel right at home from the moment we arrived. The atmosphere was relaxed and comfortable—perfect for a nice evening out.

Even though a few items weren’t available (which happens when a place serves fresh food), there were still plenty of great choices. The chicken with chili jam and cashews was tasty and cooked well, and the beef pasta had a nice, rich flavor. We were more than happy with our meals!

What really stood out was the service. The staff checked in with us, made sure we had everything we needed, and were happy to chat and offer recommendations. It felt like they really cared about making our visit enjoyable.

We had a lovely time and would definitely come back next time we’re in town. If you’re looking for good food and friendly service, this is a great spot to visit!