7 Top Beaches in Melbourne

Melbourne might not be the first city you think of when it comes to Australia's renowned beaches.

You might envision Sydney with its stunning Pacific coastline and iconic harbor, or Perth with its picturesque Indian Ocean sunsets.

Yet, Melbourne is nestled around the expansive Port Phillip Bay, offering numerous beaches easily accessible from its bayside suburbs. These inviting sandy spots, often reachable by public transport, provide sheltered waters perfect for a leisurely swim. And, true to Melbourne's charm, you'll find a delightful cafe or bar nearby to enjoy after soaking in the bay views.

Discover seven of Melbourne's finest beaches.

1. St Kilda Beach

Often considered Melbourne’s equivalent to Sydney’s Bondi Beach, this sandy stretch is the city's most renowned. This fame stems from St Kilda's long-standing reputation as a bayside entertainment hub, with its streets filled with pubs, eateries, and live music venues.

The beach itself, which faces the bay's clear waters, is flanked by landmarks: to the north stands the historic St Kilda Sea Baths, featuring a seawater pool and a variety of dining options. To the south lies the lively attractions of the classic amusement park, Luna Park. With gentle waters, it’s a safe spot for families, and after a swim or sunbathing, you can stroll to the Esplanade above for a drink or meal at the famous Hotel Esplanade, a Victorian-era pub. Catch trams 16 or 96 to reach this beach.

Planning tip: St Kilda Beach lacks ample changing facilities, so to simplify your visit, consider wearing your swimwear under your clothes. Public restrooms are available in the Sea Baths complex and along nearby Jacka Boulevard.

2. Port Melbourne Beach

Located to the northwest of St Kilda Beach, Port Melbourne is easily accessible from the city center. Hop on the number 109 tram traveling west along Collins Street, and you’ll arrive swiftly, riding along the repurposed tracks of Australia’s oldest train line. Once you arrive, you'll find a beach alongside a former industrial area where charming Victorian architecture contrasts with modern glass-and-steel structures.

Planning tip: A delightful way to experience the beachfront is to stroll southeast to Victoria St in Albert Park. Here, you can savor fish and chips at Ahoy Roy or enjoy a drink at the Bleakhouse Hotel, then catch the number 1 tram from its terminus back to the city center.

3. Elwood Beach

Located south of St Kilda, Elwood sees far fewer tourists and Melburnians on day trips, likely due to its secluded position just west of the nearest tram and train lines. For those who venture out, a quieter beach awaits, primarily frequented by locals. Visitors enjoy tossing frisbees and kicking footballs on the sandy shore and in the nearby sporting fields and lush Elwood Park.

Further east lies Elsternwick Park, a spacious green area complete with benches and a small ornamental lake. (This lake is more suited for birds than swimming.)

Planning tip: You can find food along the nearby Ormond Road shopping strip, including fish and chips at Heads & Tails (112 Ormond Road).

4. Altona Beach

While Melburnians might not often suggest heading 'west' for beach outings, they really should. The bayside suburb of Altona challenges the rough industrial image of the city's west, showcasing its beautiful sandy beach just a short stroll from Altona railway station.

Far from the tourist hotspots, you'll find yourself sharing the sands only with locals. By late 2023, the dilapidated 135-year-old pier will be replaced by a stunning new structure extending 300m (985ft) into Port Phillip Bay, featuring a boardwalk for visitors to stroll above the waves. There are also beach volleyball courts, and nearby Logan Reserve offers restrooms and a playground for children.

Local tip: Pick up some fish and chips from Altona Beach Bites at 137 Esplanade. Take your meal across the street to the picnic tables overlooking the beach, and savor the stunning bay views.

5. Williamstown Beach

Another hidden treasure on the west side, this stretch of coarse golden sand in the seafaring suburb of Williamstown offers a lovely spot for swimming, with its curved shoreline creating a sheltered area ideal for families.

At one end, there's a kiosk where you can grab snacks and coffee, while the opposite end features the upscale Mediterranean restaurant, Sebastian. Just behind the beach, the Williamstown Botanic Gardens provide a nice area to stroll or seek shade after a swim.

Detour: The closest railway station to Williamstown Beach is Williamstown Beach station, but consider extending your visit by walking along the Esplanade and Morris Street to reach Williamstown Station. A bit further past that station lies the Williamstown Timeball Tower, a 19th-century structure that once signaled time to nearby ships, helping captains synchronize their clocks.

6. Dendy Street Beach

Located next to Brighton, one of Melbourne's most upscale suburbs on the eastern side of the bay, Dendy Street Beach stretches between Green Point and the historic Middle Brighton Baths. It's a delightful spot for a swim, especially late on a hot summer evening when the setting sun casts a beautiful glow over the waves.

What this beach is particularly renowned for are the Brighton Bathing Boxes, a vibrant row of charming wooden huts that have stood since the Victorian era—ideal for selfies and Instagram photos. Both Middle Brighton and Brighton Beach railway stations are conveniently close by.

7. Sorrento Front Beach

Nestled at the southernmost tip of the Melbourne metropolitan area, the suburb of Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula exudes charm reminiscent of its Italian namesake. Positioned on a slender peninsula, it offers a fascinating mix of aquatic experiences: the unpredictable waves of Bass Strait on the south shore and the calm waters of Front Beach on the north.

Take in the stunning historic limestone architecture of Sorrento before making your way to the beach, bordered by tall Norfolk pines and a lengthy jetty. You can rent paddle boards right on the foreshore and enjoy a meal afterward at The Baths restaurant located near the pier.

Detour: From Sorrento, you can easily hop on a ferry across the bay to Queenscliff, a picturesque seaside town on the Bellarine Peninsula. It’s an ideal spot for an overnight getaway, or you can catch a bus from there to Geelong, with regular trains returning you to Melbourne.