Sunsets and Seascapes: Discovering St. Kilda, Melbourne
Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of Melbourne's southern coast lies a seaside haven of unparalleled charm - St. Kilda, Australia.
With its rich history, captivating attractions and a never-ending list of things to see and do, this vibrant neighbourhood attracts an eclectic mix of travellers from across the globe, from backpackers to families, joggers to watersports enthusiasts.
If you're new to this little slice of seaside heaven, this is the ultimate guide to 15 epic things to do in St. Kilda, Melbourne for first-timers!
Visit St. Kilda Botanical Gardens
Venturing into the St. Kilda Botanical Gardens, you'll find a serene escape from bustling city streets.
Blooming flowers and lush foliage surround this beautiful garden sanctuary, a picture-perfect spot for a family day out, complete with a playground for the kids.
The garden paths are perfect for a morning jog or early morning yoga and strolling through the park.
And you'll even stumble across a series of fascinating art installations and sculptures, too.
Address: 11 Herbert St, St. Kilda VIC 3182, Australia (map)
Opening hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
Picnic at Catani Gardens
The picturesque Catani Gardens is a popular public park with spacious lawns, playgrounds for the kids, and barbeque areas.
It's the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic or a BBQ with the whole family and is just a stone's throw away from St. Kilda Beach, so you can group in a park day and a beach day all in one.
The gardens also offer stunning sunset spots with views over Port Philip Bay.
Address: Beaconsfield Parade, St. Kilda West VIC 3182, Australia (map)
Opening hours: Open daily, 24 hours
Stroll Along the Esplanade
As you take a relaxing stroll along St. Kilda's beautiful Esplanade, you'll be mesmerised by the picturesque scene of yachts gently gliding on the sparkling bay and windsurfers catching the breeze.
Artists, street performers and buskers also line the esplanade, adding to the vibrant, creative atmosphere of the area. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a morning jog.
Address: St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia (map)
Family Fun at Luna Park
Luna Park is one of Melbourne's most iconic amusement parks, an ode to nostalgia that first opened its gates in 1912.
From the roller coasters to the carnival games, the entire family can indulge in a day of fun and excitement with a touch of vintage old-world charm.
The park often features live entertainment and performances, including musicians, magicians, and other entertainers.
Address: 18 Lower Esplanade, St. Kilda VIC 3182, Australia (map)
Opening hours: Fri: 6pm to 10pm, Sat: 11am to 10pm, Sun: 11am to 7pm. Closed on Mon to Thurs
Explore Fine Dining on Acland & Carlisle Street
A haven for food enthusiasts, the vibrant dining scene on Acland and Carlisle Street offers an exciting fusion of old-world European charm and contemporary culinary cuisine, featuring everything from trendy cafes to fine-dining restaurants and old European cake shops.
These cake shops are the area's claim to fame; iconic establishments have been serving decadent pastries, cakes, and sweet treats for generations.
Try a traditional Hungarian dobos torte, a Polish paczki, or an Austrian strudel, each dish reflecting the rich heritage of the neighbourhood.
Address: St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia (map)
Skydive over St. Kilda
Soar through the skies and see St. Kilda from a different perspective, from 15,000 feet up in the air!
This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to skydive over St. Kilda beach, float through the canopy and witness 360-degree panoramic views of Melbourne is an adrenaline-pumping experience you'll remember for a lifetime.
Address: 42A Marine Parade, St Kilda, VIC 3182 (map)
Take a Helicopter Flight over Melbourne's Skyline
See Melbourne like you've never seen it before with a thrilling helicopter flight over the city, with truly breathtaking views of Melbourne's skyline and its iconic landmarks.
The pilots are experienced professionals, so you know you're in good hands, and the bird's eye view photo opportunities from this high up in the sky will take your breath away.
Address: Hangar 81, Bristol Street, Essendon Fields, VIC 3041 (map)
Night Out on Fitzroy Street
If you're looking for things to do in St. Kilda at night, Fitzroy Street is a hub for nightlife, buzzing with eclectic bars, live music venues, and chic restaurants.
Backpackers and night owls can revel in this electric atmosphere that keeps the party going into the wee hours of the morning.
Address: St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia (map)
Sunset and Penguin Watching on St. Kilda Pier
St. Kilda Pier extends into Port Philips Bay, offering magnificent views of Melbourne's skyline, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Take a stroll down the pier's beautiful promenade, pit stop at the penguin colony to watch these adorable creatures in their natural habitat, or soak in the sunset with views of the city's skyscrapers against the backdrop of the bay.
Whether you're a photographer looking for beautiful frames or a couple seeking a romantic evening out, this scenic spot won't disappoint.
Address: Pier Rd, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia (map)
Experience Live Music at Local Venues
St. Kilda has a rich musical heritage; at night, it pulsates with live music from various genres.
Head to the local pubs, bars, and music venues on Fitzroy Street or around the Esplanade to catch performances by talented local artists and bands.
From rock and jazz to indie and electronic beats, the live music scene in St. Kilda promises a night filled with rhythm and soul.
St. Kilda Market Treasure Hunt
If you're looking to go shopping in St. Kilda, the St. Kilda Market is a bustling open-air market that offers a genuinely eclectic shopping experience.
On weekends, the market comes alive with various local crafts, handmade products, artwork, and unusual treasures and trinkets.
The market has been a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike for years and is a great place to soak in the neighbourhood's bohemian vibe and pick up souvenirs.
Address: The Esplanade, St. Kilda VIC 3182, Australia (map) Opening hours: Sunday, 10am to 4pm. Closed for the rest of the week.
Day Out at St. Kilda Beach
St. Kilda Beach is famous for its white sandy coastline, palm tree-lined boardwalk, beachfront restaurants, and bars.
If you're lucky, you may even spot a dolphin or a seal from the beach.
From sun-soaked backpackers passing through St. Kilda to families building sandcastles, everyone gathers here to soak up the sun and dip in Port Phillip Bay's refreshing waters.
Address: St. Kilda Beach (map)
Try Your Hand at Watersports
St. Kilda's coastal location and proximity to Port Phillip Bay make it an ideal destination to indulge in various watersports offered at St. Kilda Pier or St. Kilda Beach.
Try your hand at windsurfing, kitesurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing and other activities.
The St. Kilda Yacht Club also offers seasoned sailors and beginners sailing opportunities.
Enjoy Seafood Meals with Bay Views
St. Kilda boasts several restaurants right on the beach, offering a range of fresh seafood delights and stunning bay views.
Settle into a waterfront restaurant, savour seafood at its absolute freshest, and raise a toast to the stunning vistas that go hand in hand with your St. Kilda beachside dining experience.
Try the St. Kilda Sea Baths
The St. Kilda Sea Baths have a rich history that dates back to the late 1800s, a historic establishment that has been a favourite of locals and tourists alike for generations.
Take a swim in an enclosed seawater pool with scenic coastal views, enjoy a rejuvenating sauna or steam session, or indulge in a delicious meal at one of the restaurants with beautiful views of the bay.
The sea baths are also within walking distance from St. Kilda Beach so that you can enjoy a beach day followed by a relaxing sea bath session.
Address: 10/18 Jacka Blvd, St. Kilda VIC 3182, Australia (map)
Opening hours: Mon to Thurs: 5am to 10pm, Fri: 5am to 11:30pm, Sat: 7am to 10:30pm, Sun: 7am to 10pm
Beyond St. Kilda
Take a Day Trip to the Melbourne Zoo
Are you travelling with little ones? Why not spend a day at the nearby Melbourne Zoo, only 20 minutes away by car. You'll get to explore immersive enclosures like the gorilla rainforest, see Sumatran tigers, and of course, adorable Aussie animals like the wombat, kangaroo, and koalas.
Address: Elliott Ave, Parkville VIC 3052, Australia (map)
Opening hours: Sun to Fri: 9am to 5pm. Closed on Sat
Hop on a Ferry to Williamstown
Take a break from bustling Melbourne and hop on a ferry to the historic port city of Williamstown. This maritime town is both quaint and fashionable, with local art galleries to explore, a beautiful harbour, and white sandy beaches.
Other Useful Ways to Level Up Your Melbourne Trip
Unlimited Attractions Pass
With the iVenture Unlimited Attractions Pass, you'll get exclusive unlimited access to the best cultural attractions, leisure spots and tours all across the greater Melbourne area. This gives you free rein to explore different corners of Melbourne on your own terms.
Local eSIM
Stay connected with friends and family, navigate easily around the city, and update your socials while you're on the go; the unlimited data eSIM will help make your adventures around Melbourne seamless and hassle-free. Set up is super easy, with a QR code delivered straight to your email within 24 hours.
SkyBus Airport Transfer
The SkyBus offers travellers a super easy and affordable way to go to and from Melbourne Airport and the city's heart. The best way to get from Melbourne Airport to St. Kilda would be to use the SkyBus St. Kilda Express. With frequent buses, a transfer is never too far away.
St. Kilda: A Beachside Gem
From the diverse crowds that frequent its shores to the historic landmarks that echo its past, St. Kilda offers a truly enchanting travel experience.
A dynamic and inviting neighbourhood that captures the essence of beachside living, this gem by the sea promises a memorable experience for anyone looking to embrace the coastal beauty and community spirit of St. Kilda.
Whether you're soaring through the skies with a skydiving adventure or taking a scenic helicopter flight over the city, explore St. Kilda with this guide by your side and you won't miss a thing!
Commonly Asked Questions
How do I get to St. Kilda?
St. Kilda is 30-kilometres from the Melbourne Airport and can be accessed by taxi, car or shuttle bus.
What's the best way to get around St. Kilda?
St. Kilda has a tram network to get around the area, but a bicycle is the best way to get around. St. Kilda has dedicated bike tracks which allow you to enjoy the iconic sights, the restaurants and the beach by bike.
What's the best time to visit St. Kilda?
The best tourist season in St. Kilda / Melbourne is Autumn from March to May. Summer is from December to February and is hot and dry, and Spring is from September to November. Winter is from June to August and the weather is cold.
Is St. Kilda safe to travel in?
Melbourne and St. Kilda are considered safe since the crime rate here is low, but we recommend always taking necessary safety precautions and being alert when in isolated areas.
What is the currency used in St. Kilda?
Melbourne and St. Kilda use the Australian dollar (AUD) as their currency.