12 Melbourne Beaches To Visit (Yes, They Exist)

Melbourne beaches may not be as renowned as their counterparts in other Australian cities, but the strong sense of community and variety of conditions provide plenty of opportunities to swim, surf, SUP, and just relax when the sun makes an appearance.

People typically think of Sydney, Perth and the Gold Coast when discussions about Australia’s best patches of sand arise. And yet, many forget that beaches in Melbourne do indeed exist.

Moreso, there are some genuinely fantastic beaches that have been propped up over the years, from popular spots like St Kilda Beach and Brighton Beach to lesser-known favourites like Mentone and Williamstown.

From Melbourne to Mornington Peninsula, these are the best beaches you’ll find in and around town ordered by distance from the city centre.

1. South Melbourne Beach

Distance From Melbourne CBD: 5.3 kilometres

The tiny Princes Pier at South Melbourne Beach (also known as Port Melbourne Beach) is one of the most charming in the state and perfect for sunset photography. And while casual strolls and privacy may be what this Port Phillip Bay beach is best known for, the usual conditions are still decent enough for a swim. Although not for a surf.

waves lapping the shore on South Melbourne Beach — Calm waters make South Melbourne Beach ideal for swimming. (Image: Visit Victoria)

As one of the closest patrolled beaches from the heart of Melbourne, this stretch of sand is most popular amongst visiting families with limited time who mightn’t want to drive out to Brighton or Half Moon Bay.

You’d generally find locals walking their dogs, playing beach tennis, or visitors scurrying off from the nearby cruise ship terminal. It may not be the most popular, but the solitude is part of the appeal.

Port Melbourne on a sunny day — Stroll along the esplanade on a sunny day. (Image: Visit Victoria)

2. St Kilda Beach

Distance From Melbourne CBD: 7.3 kilometres

St Kilda Beach is to Melbourne what Bondi is to Sydney. And while that may seem like a rather crude comparison, consider that this historic suburb also lays claim to some of the best restaurants in Melbourne like Stokehouse and Cafe Di Stasio, as well as the fabulous Captain Baxter rooftop bar.

al fresco dining with palm trees at St Kilda Beach, Melbourne, VIC — Walk from the sand to the doorstep of Melbourne’s best eateries. (Image: Visit Victoria)

With so many great places to eat and drink after a swim, it’s no surprise that most Melbourne visitors head straight here when the sun is out, while families will appreciate the proximity to Luna Park.

city views from St Kilda Beach, Melbourne, VIC — Admire the city skyline from St Kilda Beach. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Conditions at St Kilda Beach can vary but the relatively calm waters make it a good spot for novices to practice surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing. You can also hire equipment nearby if you’d like to SUP.

people sitting by the seaside at St Kilda Beach, Melbourne, VIC — Enjoy a weekend by the seaside in the historic suburb. (Image: Visit Victoria)

A pro tip would be to hang around until later in the day and walk down St Kilda Pier, where you might spot some fairy penguins milling around.

people walking along St Kilda pier at sunset, Melbourne, VIC — Sunsets are nothing short of spectacular on St Kilda Pier. (Image: Tourism Australia / Time Out Australia)

3. Elwood Beach

Distance From Melbourne CBD: 9.8 kilometres

Just around the corner from St Kilda, Elwood Beach is much quieter but no less exciting and an easy pick for one of the best beaches in Melbourne. Although it doesn’t feel like it, you’re still quite close to the city so it’s an ideal option for hurried visitors, who want something that sits between the action of St Kilda and the solitude of South Melbourne Beach.

Point Ormond Lookout Elwood Beach — Walk from Point Ormond Lookout to Elwood Beach and spot the city skyline behind you.

Given it’s still a bay beach, the conditions at Elwood Beach are almost always calm and perfect for swimmers while surfers may want to monitor throughout the day. It’s more of a family-friendly beach as a result, flecked with picnic goers throughout the week or anyone keen on a more peaceful SUP away from the crowds.

4. Brighton Beach

Distance From Melbourne CBD: 13 kilometres

Defined by its multi-coloured row of beautiful bathing boxes on the foreshore, Brighton Beach is one of Melbourne’s most picturesque, complemented by views of the distant CBD skyline. While St Kilda Beach gets its Bondi vibe from the communal atmosphere, Brighton feels like a short stroll on L.A.’s famous Venice Beach.

an aerial view of the distant CBD skyline from Brighton Beach — Brighton Beach is arguably the most picturesque spot in Melbourne. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Yet it has its own identity. Conditions vary greatly, and the exposed beach can get quite windy resulting in some fairly decent waves and rip holes. That’s why plenty of novice surfers prefer this Melbourne beach over nearby alternatives, with a good middle ground between entry-level waves and more serious ones.

The area’s generous spread of breezy restaurants, galleries and cafes is a big attraction for swimmers and sunbathers as well, with popular options including Sons of Mary and the classic Fish Tank.

an aerial view of bathing houses on Brighton Beach — The famous bathing houses are perched on the lush seafront enclave of Brighton. (Image: Visit Victoria)

5. Williamstown Beach

Distance From Melbourne CBD: 14 kilometres

Looking back over Melbourne from Gem Pier is one of the most beautiful views in Victoria, which makes Willy Beach particularly popular for New Year’s Eve fireworks.

Williamstown Beach is just a step away from the local train station, making this a greatly accessible patch of sand for visitors who may not have the luxury of time on their side. The very active foreshore offers playgrounds, sporting facilities, and several solid options for a post-swim feast as well as classic Aussie fish and chip shops that line the Esplanade.

Williamatown Beach near Melbourne — Make a day of it at Williamstown Beach.

Yet be weary of the variable conditions. The Western end is generally calmer and is patrolled by The Williamstown Surf Life Saving Club, while some other sections can be quite rocky and exposed to strong winds throughout the year. Of course, that’s great news for surfers, but less so for those just wanting a peaceful swim.

6. Half Moon Bay

Distance From Melbourne CBD: 19.4 kilometres

Given its crescentic shape, Half Moon Bay is fairly protected from Melbourne’s temperamental weather conditions, keeping the water calm throughout the year. As such, it’s also very popular for boating and more relaxed water sports like SUP. Although, surfers have been known to enjoy the beach’s relative privacy when conditions are appropriate.

Beachgoers at Half Moon Bay in Melbourne — Half Moon Bay is one of the prettiest spots for a swim near Melbourne.

The sense of place and maritime history gives this beach its personality, especially the 1870s battleship, the HMVS Cerberus, that was sunk here in 1926 to create a breakwater for the Black Rock Yacht Club.

Swimmers should stick to the southern corner where the water is calmer and there are generally fewer rip channels compared to the rocky northern section. The Half Moon Bay Surf Life Saving Club patrols this part of the beach and there is ample parking around.

7. Mentone Beach

Distance From Melbourne CBD: 25.9 kilometres

Much like Frankston Beach, Mentone is another highly rated hidden gem that visitors often bypass but locals swear by. You’ve got another bay beach here, so conditions favour those lighter activities like swimming and SUPing while only beginner surfers have patience for the light waves.

The western part of the beach is considered the best dog beach in Melbourne with a generous off-leash policy on the sands. That’s a big reason why you’ll mostly find locals up and down the four-kilometre stretch.

Mentone Beach aerial view — Mentone Beach is a dog-friendly haven.

8. Mordialloc Beach

Distance From Melbourne CBD: 28.6 kilometres

Mordialloc’s communal design is what makes this a hidden favourite amongst regulars who typically end the day at Sunny Boy Beach Club or cook up their own feast in the dedicated BBQ and picnic area. Known by locals as Mordi Beach, this is another one of those stretches of sand that is more popular amongst families than groups of mates, offering plenty to do from well-worn bike paths to a sturdy 300-metre pier that’s great for sunset.

Find serenity and space to roam at Mordialloc Beach.

The sand can be quite rough for some but the conditions are stable and ideal for swimmers who want to shy away from the more popular Melbourne beaches. Mordi is also a fantastic, very peaceful seaside town so it’s always worth exploring further out if it’s your first time here.

9. Frankston Beach

Distance From Melbourne CBD: 56.3 kilometres

Crystal clear water and some of the best sand in Melbourne. Many locals would claim Frankston Beach as the number one reason to jump in a car and take the hour drive outside of the CBD. Although they’d be quiet while doing so, careful to not let the secret spill out.

Aerial view of Frankston Beach — Frankston Beach remains a bit of a local secret.

The sturdy and quite long trestle pier is usually packed with fishing enthusiasts and conditions are generally very stable for swimmers throughout the year. Although the primary reason most make the trip down is to spend the entire day in the charming seaside town of Frankston, with its high standard of restaurants and cafes.

Mural painted by Frankston Beach — Find plenty of shops and eateries near to the beach.

Surfers might want to bypass this one, but swimmers and sunbathers generally agree that this is the best beach on Port Phillip Bay.

10. Dromana Beach

Distance From Melbourne CBD: 84.5 kilometres

There are so many beaches across the Mornington Peninsula that it’s impossible to pick any front-runners. Although Dromana Beach is certainly a top-tier option with its clear turquoise waters and idyllic swimming conditions.

an aerial view of Dromana Beach above the Arthurs Seat Eagle gondola — Catch uninterrupted views of Dromana Beach from above onboard Arthurs Seat Eagle gondola. (Image: Tourism Australia)

The foreshore has plenty of barbecue spots, while the small fishing pier typically sees a lot of action year-round because there’s less competition.

the pier on Dromana Beach — Take an afternoon stroll on the 200-metre Dromana Pier. (Image: Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism)

While the sand can be quite coarse and visually unexciting, the surrounding hiking trails certainly help push up the visual appeal of this family-friendly beach. The nearby Arthurs Seat State Park is certainly a stamina test, but those who want to see the summit without the sweat can take the Arthurs Seat Eagle gondola for incredible views across Port Phillip Bay with Melbourne’s skyline in the background.

sunset views from the Arthurs Seat Eagle gondola — Port Phillip Bay is stunning from above. (Image: Tourism Australia)

11. Mount Martha Beach

Distance From Melbourne CBD: 78.7 kilometres

Clear blue water, idyllic golden sand, and the most beautiful bathing boxes on the Mornington Peninsula. Brighton Beach may be Instagram famous, but locals know that the most beautiful beach outside of Melbourne is Mount Martha.

Swimmers at Mount Martha Beach — Set foot on the idyllic golden sand of Mount Martha Beach. (Image: Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism)

The pleasant conditions give Mount Martha a very European feel and the water clarity regularly attracts snorkellers, given the beach has many little nooks populated by extensive reef and weed beds. Expect to spot a huge variety of species like whiting, flathead, garfish, and snapper.

an aerial view of the golden sand and blue waters of Mount Martha Beach — The vibrant turquoise blue waters at Mount Martha Beach beckon. (Image: Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism)

12. Gunnamatta

Distance From Melbourne CBD: 103.5 kilometres

Gunnamatta is greatly exposed to the full force of the Southern Ocean and so conditions are generally very harsh yet incredibly exciting for more experienced surfers. That makes this beach, part of the bountiful Mornington Peninsula National Park, the most popular for anyone seeking consistent breaks and gigantic waves.

That also means you probably wouldn’t find anyone here who isn’t charging at the water with a surfboard in hand. Gunnamatta can be quite risky, but anyone who likes watching the drama unfold usually kills time on the sand while watching thrill seekers navigate the high swells.

Gunnamatta Beach full with beachgoers — Claim a patch of sand at Gunnamatta Beach.

Here’s how to spend 72 hours in Melbourne.

Feast your way through Sun Country on the Murray – a beautiful and bountiful region in northern Victoria with gourmet delights galore.

Nestled on the lands of the Yorta Yorta People along the mighty Murray River, Sun Country is a truly extraordinary place. The northern Victorian enclave is a tapestry of meandering waterways, ancient forests, sandy beaches, enchanting country towns and an easy way of life.

Beyond its landscapes and bucolic charm, Sun Country on the Murray is a culinary paradise: think farm-fresh produce, family-run wineries and no shortage of places to feast.

If you’re a serious foodie or simply epicurious, here’s your ultimate guide to a gourmand Murray River getaway.

The Murray Farm Gate Trail

The self-guided Murray Gate Farm Trail lets you sample the area’s best produce while immersing yourself in the lush Goulburn and Murray Valleys. The trail has something to suit every palate and pace, but there are a few notable highlights.

1. Rich Glen

Rich Glen Provedore and Rich Glen Skin & Beauty — Stock up at Rich Glen. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Rich Glen is renowned for its award-winning olive oils. Everything is grown and created on the family farm in Yarrawonga, the results of which you can visit at Rich Glen Provedore – a treasure trove of gourmet foods, including that signature olive oil. Or explore Rich Glen Skin & Beauty, which stocks lush handmade skincare and wellness products.

2. How Now Dairy

A charming micro-farm producing ethical dairy, How Now Dairy , lets its baby calves remain with their mothers and its cows roam on rolling pesticide-free pastures. Try a selection of cheeses that do good and taste good, including a fantastic punchy blue, and velvety milk with a thick, creamy top.

3. Cactus Country

Cactus Country in the murray — Stop into Cactus Country. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Cactus Country is a 12-acre stretch of desert-like garden containing cacti of all shapes, sizes and colours. Naturally, it makes the most of its bounty at the on-site bar and restaurant, with a cactus-infused dessert menu alongside a vibrant line-up of Mexican snacks and mains.

4. The Olde Creamery

The Olde Creamery is a local icon, a former hobby farm that has flourished into a thriving purveyor of flowers and foods. The elderflower cordial and bramble gin and tonic jam are must-tries, and make for tasty mementoes of your trip.

Wineries, breweries and distilleries

The region’s sunny climate and rich soils make it a prime place for viticulture. If wine isn’t your thing, you’ll also find boutique breweries and distilleries producing top-notch beers and spirits.

1. Squires Winery

a couple sitting at the bar at squire's winery, sun country on the murray — Pop in for a tasting. (Image: Visit Victoria)

With its idyllic positioning on the Ovens River, Squires Winery is a lovely setting for a long, leisurely lunch or tasting. Enjoy a riverside sip of prosecco, rosé or cab sauv, complemented by seasonal bites and a backdrop of towering gum trees.

2. Cape Horn Vineyard

Cape Horn is one of the region’s most established vineyards. Its sparkling durif/shiraz is a crowd favourite and well worth trying on your foodie tour, especially if it’s served with one of the winery’s delicious wood-fired pizzas.

3. Byramine Homestead & Brewery

A top pick among beer, cider and history enthusiasts, Byramine serves a rotation of brews made on-site in the historic homestead. Wander through the venue and learn about its colonial past before sitting down to a freshly made Ploughman’s and cold local ale.

4. Monichino Wines

Monichino is a slice of la dolce vita in northern Victoria, producing classic Italian varietals like pinot grigio and aromatica. Drop by for a tasting at the cellar door (open weekends or by appointment) and explore everything from crisp whites to robust fortified wines, or pack a picnic and savour your glass in the picturesque gardens.

5. Corowa Distilling Co

Corowa Distilling Co crafts an incredible variety of single-malt and blended whiskies, and is a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike. Stop in for a tasting flight in the whisky room, or a hearty breakfast or lunch paired with a wee dram.

Farm-to-table dining

If you’ve got the time to linger over a gourmet spread, Sun Country on the Murray has an abundance of outstanding restaurants and cafes.

1. O’Reilly’s Food and Wine

O’Reilly’s feels much like stepping into a good friend’s home, albeit with a refined twist. The menu changes weekly and rotates through a selection of comforting yet elevated dishes – think lamb cottage pie, French-style moussaka, a perennially popular open steak sandwich and cakes that change flavours weekly.

2. Stock and Barrel

a couple eating at Stock and Barrel victoria — Soak in views of Lake Mulwala. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Tucked inside The Sebel Yarrawonga hotel, overlooking sparkling Lake Mulwala, Stock and Barrel does pub classics with a Sun Country spin. Order a perfectly seared steak and triple-cooked potatoes alongside a freshly poured pint, or try a regional highlight: local produce features abundantly across Stock and Barrel’s dishes.

3. The Bend

With spacious decks and panoramic views of the Murray, The Bend is ideal for a sun-soaked long lunch. Order a round of moreish share plates (like baja fish tacos and a warm-from-the-oven brioche loaf stuffed with cream cheese and herbs) or a signature cocktail and indulgent main – we can’t go past the slow-braised wagyu brisket.

4. Blacksmith Provedore

If you’re after a slick yet relaxed dining destination, head to Blacksmith Provedore . Perched right next to Lake Mulwala, the venue is airy and elegant, with a minimalist-chic design. The pizzas are seriously good too, made with 72-hour fermented dough and toppings sourced from Italy’s finest producers.

5. Broken Willow

As soon as you enter Broken Willow ’s front doors, you’re greeted with genuine hospitality and a classic bistro menu that has something for everyone: succulent grilled meats, parmas and schnitzels, juicy burgers, and international dishes ranging from weekly curry and stir-fry specials to zippy banh mi.

While you’re there

Thompson Beach in sun country on the murray — Discover plenty to do between meals. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Got a few hours to spare? Make the most of your trip by exploring the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of your riverside surroundings.

Barmah National Park is a sanctuary of walks through majestic river red gums and serene wetlands. Here, a seat on board a Kingfisher River Cruise offers a different Murray experience, letting you see the vast river from the perspective of the Yorta Yorta peoples.

If you’re a watersport enthusiast, Lake Mulwala in Yarrawonga is a favourite for canoeing, cruising, fishing, kayaking and water skiing. While the silo murals at Katamatite, St James, Tungamah and more recently Waaia are essential stops in Victoria’s famed Silo Art Trail .

In Cobram Barooga, make sure to visit Thompson’s Beach, the largest inland beach in the southern hemisphere. Nearby, the Bullanginya Dreaming project is an award-winning 1.8km immersive art experience that immerses you in light and sound to tell a rich story of country, culture and connection.

Start planning a tasty getaway to Sun Country on The Murray at suncountryonthemurray.com.au.

12 Melbourne beaches to visit (yes, they exist)