Melbourne might be best known for its coffee, laneways, and world-class arts scene, but don’t sleep on its beaches. If you're after calm, family-friendly shores or dramatic coastlines with rugged waves, the city has something for every kind of beachgoer.
From the classic St Kilda Beach to the iconic bathing boxes of Brighton, all the way down the Great Ocean Road, you’ll find that the best beaches in Melbourne offer lots of ways to relax, explore, and soak up the Aussie sun.
In this guide, we’ll take you through six must-visit coastal spots and share helpful tips on how to get there, what to do once you arrive, and how to enjoy each beach like a local!
🏄🏻 Best Melbourne Beaches for Surfing
1. Bells Beach
Surfing at Bells Beach | Photo Credits: Marik Elikishvili on Pexels
If you’re chasing waves, Bells Beach is where the action is. Located along the famous Great Ocean Road, this beach is a legendary spot in the surf world, home to the annual Rip Curl Pro.
Swimming here isn’t the best idea (the currents are no joke), but watching pro surfers tackle those massive waves? Epic. Even if you're not hitting the water, the dramatic cliffs and crashing surf make for some amazing pictures.
If you’re planning to visit, book a Melbourne car rental! Having your own car gives you the freedom to explore the stunning coastal drive at your own time, and maybe even stop at a few hidden gems, like Point Addis Marine National Park, along the way.
Address: Bells Beach Rd, Torquay VIC 3228
How to get there: About 1.5 hours by car from Melbourne
2. Point Leo Beach
Surfers walking around Point Leo Beach | Photo Credits: Marik Elikishvili on Pexels
Looking for a surf escape that’s close to the city but still feels a bit more laid-back? Point Leo Beach on the Mornington Peninsula is a solid pick. It’s less crowded than other spots and known for its consistent waves, making it a favorite for surfers.
Not into surfing? No problem. Even if the waves are a bit rough, there’s still a lot to enjoy around Point Leo Beach. You can take a walk along the coastal trails, swing by a few nearby wineries, or explore some cool sculpture parks in the area.
So if you’re ready to see more of the area, book a Mornington Peninsula Tour that covers the top nearby sights. It’s a great way to spend the rest of the day after a morning surf session.
Address: Point Leo Rd, Point Leo VIC 3916
How to get there: About 1.5 hours by car from Melbourne
🏊🏻 Best Melbourne Beaches for Swimming
3. Lorne Beach
Lorne Beach at Great Ocean Road
Lorne Beach is a crowd favorite, and it’s easy to see why. Along the Great Ocean Road, this beach is great for swimming, or trying out a bit of paddleboarding. The town itself has lots of cafes, shops, and spots to grab a gelato while you enjoy the ocean views.
It’s also a great base for exploring nearby nature. Want to see it all without planning? Book a Great Ocean Road Explorer tour that includes a stop in Lorne, so you can enjoy both the coast and the forest in one easy day trip.
Address: Lorne Foreshore, Lorne VIC 3232
How to get there: Around 2 hours by car from Melbourne
4. Brighton Beach
Brighton Beach Boxes | Photo Credits: Klook
Brighton Beach is one of the best beaches in Melbourne for swimming and taking those iconic photos. The calm bay waters make it perfect for families and beginner swimmers, but the real stars of the show are the Brighton Bathing Boxes, There over 80 of them, each with its own fun design lined up along the sand.
Want to explore more than just the beach? You can book a Brighton Day Tour that also takes you to Puffing Billy and the Penguin Parade. A fun day trip with a little bit of everything.
Address: Esplanade, Brighton VIC 3186
How to get there: Take the train to Brighton Beach Station, then a short walk.
🧘🏻♀️ Best Melbourne Beaches for Relaxing
5. St Kilda Beach
Penguins at St Kilda Beach | Photo Credits: Stuart Robinson on Pexels
St Kilda Beach is the heartbeat of Melbourne’s beach scene. Just a 20 minute tram ride from the city, this beach is all about fun and people-watching. With palm trees, a wide foreshore, and a long pier, it’s a perfect spot for walking, rollerblading, or grabbing a snack by the water.
Stick around until sunset and you might catch little penguins! Head to the end of St Kilda Pier, where these tiny locals waddle in after dark. It’s one of Melbourne’s coolest (and cutest) free experiences.
Want to explore more? Pair your visit with a Private Melbourne Day Tour to learn more about this lively neighborhood and its local gems.
Address: St Kilda Foreshore, St Kilda VIC 3182
How to get there: Take tram 16 or 96 from the city. It's a 15–20 minute drive from Melbourne CBD.
6. Sorrento Front Beach
Picnic at Sorrento Front Beach | Photo Credits: Stuart Robinson on Pexels
If you’re after an easygoing beach day, Sorrento Front Beach is just the spot. With shallow, gentle waters, it’s ideal for anyone who just wants to float and relax. The beach has historic bathing boxes and grassy spots nearby, which is great for a laid-back picnic.
After the beach, walk over to the nearby Sorrento town. You’ll find a bunch of shops, cafes, and places to grab a bite; perfect for wrapping up a chilled-out day by the water.
Address: The Esplanade, Sorrento VIC 3943
How to get there: Around 1.5 hours by car from Melbourne, or take the ferry from Queenscliff
❓FAQs About Melbourne Beaches
What are the best beaches in Melbourne?
Some of the best beaches in Melbourne include St Kilda Beach, Brighton Beach, and Lorne Beach. If you're looking to travel further, beaches along the Great Ocean Road and the Mornington Peninsula offer stunning coastal views and unique activities.
Which Melbourne Beach is the most scenic?
Brighton Beach is incredibly scenic, especially with its iconic beach boxes Melbourne is known for. For more dramatic natural beauty, Bells Beach and Wreck Beach offer breathtaking cliffside views and powerful ocean waves.
Why is St Kilda Beach so popular?
St Kilda Beach is popular because it’s close to the city, easily accessible by tram, and full of energy. The lively boardwalk, nearby restaurants, and the chance to spot little penguins make it a favorite for both tourists and locals.
Can you swim safely at Melbourne beaches?
Yes, many Melbourne beaches are safe for swimming, especially those on Port Phillip Bay like Brighton Beach, Sorrento Front Beach, and Lorne Beach. Always check local signs for safety warnings and swim between the flags when lifeguards are present.
What is the best time of year to visit Melbourne beaches?
The best time to visit is during Melbourne’s summer, from December to February. The weather is warm, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Spring and early autumn are also great if you prefer fewer crowds and cooler breezes.
🌴 Plan Your Melbourne Beach Day
If you want to chill with a book or find some waves, Melbourne’s got a beach that fits your vibe. You can book day trips, tours, and fun experiences on Klook to make things easy.
So grab your sunscreen, charge your phone, and get ready to check out some of the best beaches around Melbourne!
What is Klook?
Klook is a leading pan-regional experiences platform in Asia Pacific, purpose built to digitalize experiences and make them accessible to every traveler.
Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
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