Echuca is one of those towns that seems to have it all: history, charm, and a relaxed riverside atmosphere that makes every stroll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. And when you’re cruising the Murray on a luxury houseboat, docking for a few hours to explore Echuca’s best coffee spots, pubs, and boutiques is the perfect way to blend the slow beauty of the river with the buzz of the town.

Whether you’re taking a break from your houseboat adventure or planning a full day ashore, here’s where to “park” your floating retreat and experience Echuca like a local.

Start the Day Right: Coffee with a Riverside View

There’s truly no better way to begin the day than with a proper coffee, and Echuca’s café scene doesn’t disappoint. Once you’ve moored your boat along the dock near the Port of Echuca, you’ll find yourself within walking distance of some top-notch local spots.

  • The Black Pudding Café: Famous for its hearty breakfasts and perfectly textured flat whites. Their outdoor seating makes it easy to soak up the morning sunshine.
  • The Odd Captain Café & Bar: A stylish little nook tucked behind the port area, offering smooth coffee, friendly service, and picturesque heritage surroundings.
  • Moama Bakery on the Wharf: Fresh pastries and strong espresso in hand as you stroll back toward base? Perfection.

It’s worth lingering a little longer over breakfast here. After all, nothing about Moama on Murray houseboat holidays should feel rushed.

Discover Echuca’s Boutique Shopping Scene

After your morning caffeine fix, it’s time for some retail exploring. Echuca’s boutiques are full of character, offering everything from handcrafted jewellery and local artwork to unique fashion finds you won’t see in big cities.

Explore charming main-street stores such as:

  • Lush Creations: A haven for homewares, clothing, and gifts inspired by Australian craftsmanship.
  • Murray River Tea Rooms Store: Perfect for souvenirs, tea gifts, or picnic essentials.
  • Port 53 Home: Beautiful furnishings and decor that capture Echuca’s relaxed yet refined aesthetic.

If you’re thinking of picking up fresh local produce for lunch or dinner back onboard, stop by one of the town’s weekend farmers’ markets or specialty delis. Fill your basket with local cheeses, artisan bread, and seasonal fruit – perfect for an alfresco lunch on your upper deck later in the day.

Refuel with a Riverside Pub Lunch

Exploring the streets of Echuca works up an appetite, and luckily, this town knows its way around a hearty meal. There’s something special about enjoying a pub lunch just steps away from the river where your houseboat is moored.

Top picks include:

  • The American Hotel”Blends Echuca’s rich history with a cosmopolitan menu. Think wood-fired pizzas, craft beers, and a rooftop terrace overlooking the town.
  • Morrisons Riverside Winery & Restaurant: A little further out, but absolutely worth it. You can even arrive by boat for a long, leisurely lunch among the vines.
  • The Star Hotel: A classic Echuca pub, known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautifully restored cellar

Order a local lager or wine and soak in that unmistakable Murray River energy. It’s the kind of slow living you’ll remember long after you’ve returned to shore.

Afternoon Adventures: Paddleboarding or River Wandering

Once you’re recharged, it’s time to work off that lunch with a gentle river activity. You can’t go wrong with paddleboard hire in Echuca – a relaxed way to take in the scenery from a whole new angle. Drift downstream, spot native wildlife, or just enjoy the stillness of being surrounded by water.

If land is calling, the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre is a must-do, especially for first-time visitors. Walk through 19th-century wharf buildings, admire restored paddle steamers, and get a sense of the town’s deep connection to river life.

Evening Wind-Down: Dinner, Drinks & Dockside Calm

After a day of exploring Echuca’s hidden treasures, it’s time to return to your floating sanctuary. Fire up the BBQ or prepare a meal in your onboard kitchen using all that fresh produce you gathered earlier.

As the sun sets, wrap yourself in a blanket on the deck and listen to the hum of the town fade into the soft rhythm of lapping water. If you’re staying just a couple of nights, take inspiration from our guide to maximising a short weekend trip – it’s full of ideas to make the most of every peaceful moment aboard.

Explore, Eat, and Indulge at Your Own Pace

Echuca’s best coffee, shopping, and dining all flow seamlessly with the relaxed rhythm of the Murray. Whether you spend half a day wandering or linger for the whole weekend, this riverside town rewards slow exploration.

And when your adventure continues, your houseboat hire will be waiting… stocked with gourmet delights, travel memories, and maybe a few new local treasures in tow.