Only a short drive from the Melbourne city center St Kilda Beach stretches approximately 700 meters between St Kilda Marina and St Kilda Harbour. St Kilda Beach is popular among swimmers, sunbathers, walkers and joggers. It is a favourite destination for water sports including kitesurfing, windsurfing, and jet skiing.
The beach is also home to the St Kilda Pier. It is a landmark of Melbourne where one can take a walk, go fishing or just relax and take in the clean air. Sitting at the very end of the pier is Victorian Heritage Registered St Kilda Pavilion. The historic Edwardian kiosk is more than a century old and serves light snacks.
Stay at the pier until the sunset and enjoy the spectacular view of the Melbourne city. It is a prime location for shooting breathtaking photographs like the one below.
Walk past the pier kiosk to the St Kilda breakwater after the sunset to see the little penguins. The fairy penguins can be seen every night of the year. The best viewing spots are on the boardwalk. The best viewing time is 30 minutes after the sunset. You should remain at least three meters from the penguins. Flash photography can disturb them and is prohibited by the authorities.
How to get there?
It takes less than 10 minutes to drive to the St Kilda Beach. Plenty of paid parking spaces available near the beach but it is difficult to get a free parking spot. The best way to get to the beach is by tram. Catch the Route 96 trams that pass-through Melbourne Museum, Bourke Street Mall, Crown Entertainment Complex, Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre to St Kilda Beach.
Where to eat?
You have so many cuisines to choose from, you will be satisfied with the array of options near the beach. Many of the restaurants are located along Fitzroy Street and Acland Street, with a mix of moody wine bars, outdoor terraces, and fine dining restaurants.
Things to do near the St Kilda Beach
1. Bath at St Kilda Sea Baths in soothing water that has been derived directly from the sea and heated to a comfortable temperature.
2. Visiting Melbourne Luna Park, it is a historic amusement park located on the foreshore of Port Phillip Bay.
3. Shop at the Esplanade Market, open on Sundays.
4. Visit St Kilda Botanical Gardens.
5. See the colourful array of Brighton beach bathing boxes.
Tip: Alcohol is not allowed at St Kilda Beach. Dogs are permitted only in some areas, please read the signs.