St Kilda Beach, Victoria

St Kilda, Victoria 3182

Melbourne’s most famous beach, St Kilda Beach, is located just 6km from the centre of the city.

Stretching out for around 700m, it promises sandy shorelines and a range of waterfront activities between St Kilda Marina and St Kilda Harbour.

According to locals in Melbourne, it’s not summer until you’ve kicked back for a day by the seaside at St Kilda Beach, which can easily be reached via the city tram line from the Central Business District. Along the esplanade, you can watch walkers, joggers, and rollerbladers race by, while the waters make the perfect place to kitesurfers, windsurfers, and swimmers.

Add to this the glut of restaurants, bars, and cafes that line the beach, and you have the backdrop for a memorable and fun day.

The History of St Kilda

The Boon Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation were the traditional owners of the land where St Kilda now sits and called the area Euroe Yroke. There is evidence of their ancient lifestyle throughout St Kilda. Visit where early tribal gatherings were held at the ‘Corroboree Tree’ a very old red gum tree at St Kilda Junction.

St Kilda was named by Superintendent La Trobe after a watching a boat named ‘Lady of St Kilda’ anchored off the beach in 1841. During the 1900s, St Kilda became a favoured suburb of Melbourne’s elite, and many palatial mansions were constructed along its hills and waterfront. The foreshore became Melbourne’s amusement zone with the opening of Luna Park in 1912, at the time the newest and greatest amusement park in the world. Luna Park still operates today where you can enjoy rollercoaster rides and arcade games.

Following WWII, St Kilda became Melbourne’s ‘red light’ district. During the 1960s, it became known for its bohemian style and attracted young artists and musicians taking advantage of cheap housing. The suburb still retains its alternative style today.

Things to do & See in St Kilda Beach

There are a number of things to do in St Kilda, simply follow our list for the top activates on offer to find out what to do first!

• See the Wildlife

  Wildlife lovers will enjoy the incredible animal encounters on St Kilda Beach. Near the breakwater, there is a resident population of little penguins that burrow in the rocks.

• Dip your Toe in the Water

  Elsewhere, you can swim in the shallows or kick back and relax on the sandy shores or the grass areas that lie alongside the beach. For the more adventurous, there’s the chance to try windsurfing, sailing, kitesurfing, rollerblading, water-skiing, jet skiing, and beach volleyball amongst other active pursuits, and there’s soon to be a skate park set at the end of Albert Park.

• Cycle along the Boardwalk

  Along the beach itself, there is a boardwalk that’s ideal for exploring by bike, and a walking track that takes you from one side of the sand to the other.

• Soak up Sun

  The vibe at St Kilda Beach is perhaps the best thing about it, though. The laidback, hip vibe draws in crowds from far and wide, and its huge selection of things to do make it a great weekend escape for everyone, including large families, couples, groups of friends, and everyone in between.

• Try out one of the Restaurants and Bars on St Kilda’s Beach

  If you get hungry at St Kilda Beach, you’re in for a treat. All along the esplanade and beachfront, there are numerous restaurants and cafes that serve a whole host of different cuisines. You’ll find most of St Kilda’s eateries along Fitzroy Street and Acland Street, along with a number of atmospheric wine bars, outdoor terraces that make the perfect summer backdrop, and fine dining restaurants run by some of the country’s best-loved chefs.

• Captain Baxter

  For a rooftop view of the epic ocean front, Captain Baxter is for you! With white and blue booths perfect for you, your partner, and posse! Enjoy a refreshing drink and some delicious nibbles while you enjoy the ocean views and blazing sun!

• Supernormal Canteen

  For a taste of Melbourne’s truly delicious food, Supernormal is the way to go. Crowded with both locals and tourists, Supernormal Canteen offers guests mouth-watering seafood delights and exceptional cocktails to go with it. Providing some of the most unique and unforgettable cuisines around.

Spending the day at St Kilda Beach gives you the chance to experience Melbourne’s coastline, try out some of the amazing activities on offer, and tuck into some delicious food.