Airlie Beach · Whitsundays, QLD Good Food · Good Wine · Good Company Open 7 Days · Lunch & Dinner Reserve a Table →

Mediterranean at Heart · Australian in Spirit

Good Food is Better
When it is Shared

Modern Mediterranean dining in the heart of the Whitsundays. Vibrant flavours, quality Australian produce, thoughtful drinks and genuine hospitality — a place to slow down, gather, and enjoy the moment.

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Our Story

Inspired by the Sea

The name Marea reflects our connection to the ocean and the coastal environment that surrounds us. The Whitsundays are defined by movement, freedom, sunshine and the sea — we wanted those qualities to become part of the Marea experience.

From our food and cocktails to the atmosphere and design, Marea draws inspiration from coastal living. A place to slow down. A place to gather. A place to enjoy the moment.

Inspired by the generosity of Mediterranean dining and the relaxed spirit of the Australian coast, Marea brings together vibrant flavours, quality Australian produce, thoughtful drinks and genuine hospitality in the heart of the Whitsundays.

Good food. Good wine. Good company. The Marea Promise
Coastal dining at Marea
Fresh seafood and Mediterranean plates
Craft cocktails at Marea

The Story Behind Marea

A New Chapter

Founder

Stefano Vona

After more than two decades in hospitality, Stefano has experienced the industry from almost every angle. His journey began in Milan, Italy, before taking him through years of restaurant management, leadership and multi-venue operations.

Eventually his experience brought him to Australia, where he built a new life and discovered a deep connection to the Whitsundays. Throughout his career, Stefano developed a strong understanding of what makes a hospitality venue memorable — great people, genuine service, attention to detail and an atmosphere that makes guests want to return.

When the opportunity came to create something of his own, the vision was clear. Marea became the next chapter — together with Virginia and Joe, who also call the Whitsundays home.

Head Chef

James Levy

For Head Chef James Levy, the journey into the kitchen began at home. At just 14 years old, James discovered his passion for cooking while watching his mum prepare a Sunday roast. By the age of 17, he was already a qualified chef.

His career continued through London's five-star hospitality scene, including experience at The Savoy and Claridge's, as well as experience connected with Gordon Ramsay's restaurant. After moving to Australia, James continued to develop his craft and has now spent more than two decades working professionally as a chef.

Today, James brings that experience to Marea with a passion for food that is vibrant, colourful and full of flavour.

Functions and private events at Marea

Functions & Private Events

Make Your Next Gathering
a Marea Moment

Some of life's best moments happen around a table. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, planning a corporate gathering, hosting a special occasion or simply bringing your favourite people together, Marea offers a beautiful setting in the heart of the Whitsundays.

100 Guests · Functions & Private Events

Marea can accommodate a range of celebrations and private events. Tell us the occasion and we'll craft the evening around it.

Come to the Table

Elevated but Relaxed.
Mediterranean but Australian.

Whether it's a long lunch, a bottle of wine shared with friends, dinner by the coast or simply a cocktail as the afternoon turns into evening — the best moments are rarely rushed.