Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
21/08/2025
Karl Barnfather at English Wikipedia, Wikimedia Commons
King Island offers a relaxed drinking scene, primarily centered around local hospitality, unique community spaces, and the island's emerging craft beverage producers.
Entertainment and Music:
On King Island, the entertainment scene is experienced as a reflection of its close-knit community and natural environment, with social interactions often centered around local gatherings and annual events.
Dedicated live music venues are not a primary feature of King Island's social offerings. However, the Currie Country Club occasionally comes alive with live music, complementing its regular trivia nights. A unique spot to immerse oneself in a relaxed, music-friendly atmosphere is The Boathouse in Currie Harbour. Here, with its inviting communal piano and record collection, visitors bring their own food to share in a space designed for gathering. Beyond these, annual events like the Festival Of King Island showcase various musical talents, drawing the community together.
1. The Boathouse (Restaurant With No Food)
Type: Unique BYO social space
Experience a truly unique social gathering spot on King Island at The Boathouse, known locally as the 'Restaurant With No Food.' This quaint yellow boathouse sits right on Currie Harbour, offering serene views. Visitors bring their own food and drinks, making it a self-catered dining and social experience. Inside, one can find dishes, cutlery, a record collection, and colourful tables and chairs, encouraging a relaxed, communal atmosphere. It is advisable to book for evening visits.
Getting There: The Boathouse is located on Currie Harbour and is typically within walking distance from the main township of Currie.
2. King Island Hotel
Type: Traditional Local Pub
In the heart of Currie, the King Island Hotel serves as the island's traditional local pub. This welcoming venue features a public bar with gaming options and a bistro. It is a solid choice for a casual drink, offering a taste of local hospitality in a recently renovated setting.
Getting There: Situated in the centre of Currie's main township, the King Island Hotel is easily accessible by foot from anywhere in Currie.
3. King Island Brewhouse
Type: Craft Brewery Taproom
For those who appreciate local craft beverages, the King Island Brewhouse is a notable stop. This local brewery offers a range of craft beers and ciders. One can enjoy a drink in its family-friendly taproom, and on Friday nights, wood-fired pizzas are often served, creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Getting There: The Brewhouse is located about 20 minutes from Currie township. Access is primarily by car or taxi.
4. King Island Distillery
Type: Spirits Distillery and Tasting Room
Discover the island's artisanal spirit production at the King Island Distillery. This venue specializes in small-batch gin, created with native coastal ingredients, alongside other handcrafted spirits like vodka and limoncello. Visitors can enjoy guided spirit tastings and even participate in cocktail-making classes, providing an informative and engaging experience for spirit enthusiasts.
Getting There: Located on Racecourse Road in Currie, the distillery is typically a short walk or drive from the town centre.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.