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The 16 Best Beaches in Melbourne for Swimming

For those seeking a refreshing dip in the water on a hot day, Melbourne is home to an array of stunning beaches that are perfect for swimming. Whether you prefer calm, sheltered bays or expansive stretches of shoreline, there is a beach in Melbourne to suit every taste.

From popular tourist hotspots to hidden gems off the beaten path, the beaches in Melbourne offer something for everyone. Whether you're looking to relax on the sand or take a leisurely swim in the clear waters, you'll find plenty of options to choose from.

With so many beautiful beaches to explore, it can be hard to decide where to go for a swim. To help you choose the perfect spot for your day out, here is a list of the 16 best beaches in Melbourne for swimming.

How this guide is ordered

Our Melbourne editors chose these businesses from across the city and suburbs, looking for a reputation that has stood up over time, details we could confirm and genuinely good work in their field. Each list is reviewed through the year as places open, move and close.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

Top 3Full listMapHow to choose

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St Kilda beach#1
What stands out
  • Beautiful, calm waters, missed seeing penguins, great for walks, clean amenities, playground nearby

  • A captivating beach experience, perfect for rejuvenating days out with various activities, sense of community and joy, abundance of nearby restaurants

  • Clean beach, good for running, cycling events, relaxing, swimming, and enjoying the good vibes, with lots of restaurants and bars nearby

St Kilda beach

4.52,413 reviews
Victoria, Australia

St Kilda Beach in Victoria, Australia, is a picturesque spot that offers breathtaking views and welcomes furry friends for a leisurely stroll. This beach with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 is perfect for activities like jogging, skating, and sunbathing. It has clean shower rooms, multiple cafes, and clean amenities close by. Customers appreciate the calm waters, vibrant atmosphere, and the variety of recreational options available. Here are some summarized reviews:

Mentone Beach#2
What stands out
  • Mentone Dog Friendly Beach is perfect for socializing pets and has a great off-leash area.

  • The super shallow waters make it ideal for water activities and beginners.

  • Ample roadside parking is available, and there are great dining options nearby.

  • The beach is long and well-designed to prevent dogs from running onto the road.

Mentone Beach

4.6796 reviews
Mentone VIC 3194, Australia

Mentone Beach is a popular public beach located in Mentone VIC, Australia. With a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 796 reviews, it is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. The beach offers good amenities such as public toilets and is wheelchair-accessible with designated parking and entrance.

Customer reviews rave about the beach's features and services, highlighting the following key points:

Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the beach or a fun outing with your furry friends, Mentone Beach is the place to be!

Port Melbourne Beach#3
What stands out
  • Stunning beauty, great fishing opportunities, and plenty of sitting arrangements with cafes nearby.

  • Easily accessible from the city with gentle waves, making it safe for kids to swim.

  • A peaceful sanctuary for meditation with privacy and beautiful views.

  • Close proximity to public amenities like toilets, cafes, and restaurants, making it convenient for visitors.

Port Melbourne Beach

4.51,168 reviews
Victoria, Australia

Port Melbourne Beach is a stunning destination in Victoria, Australia that attracts visitors with its beauty and tranquility. This beach offers more than just a place to sunbathe; visitors can try fishing at the port and enjoy various sitting arrangements along the shoreline. The presence of cafes adds to the convenience and charm of the locality. With a stellar rating of 4.5, it's no wonder why so many people love this beach.

Some key points from customer reviews include:

These reviews highlight the diverse range of experiences and amenities that Port Melbourne Beach offers to its visitors, making it a must-visit destination for beach lovers in the area.

Altona Beach#4
What stands out
  • Good beach for gatherings with options for food and ice cream.

  • Marvelous sunrise and sunset views from the pier.

  • Clean beach with shallow waters, perfect for families with young children.

  • Plenty of parking options and nearby amenities like shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Altona Beach

4.41,503 reviews
Victoria, Australia

Altona Beach offers stunning views of the coastline in Victoria, Australia. This picturesque beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day by the water, take a leisurely stroll along the pier, or partake in various water activities.

The reviews from satisfied customers highlight several key points:

Altona Beach has received a high rating of 4.4 based on 1503 reviews. Customer feedback emphasizes the beauty of the beach, the family-friendly environment, and the convenience of nearby facilities. Whether visitors are looking to swim, relax, or enjoy a scenic walk, Altona Beach offers something for everyone.

MLocal option
#5
What stands out
  • Great place for walking or running in the morning.

  • Beautiful, neat, and clean beach.

  • Plenty of paid parking available after 7pm.

  • Pretty beach with lots of restaurants nearby

Middle Park Beach

4.5856 reviews
Beaconsfield Parade, Middle Park VIC 3206, Australia

Middle Park Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The beach offers a pleasant and clean environment for various activities such as walking, running, and swimming. The artificially made beach stretches between St Kilda Beach and Port Melbourne Beach, providing a picturesque setting along Beaconsfield Parade.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Whether you want to enjoy a relaxing day by the bay or engage in outdoor activities, Middle Park Beach is a fantastic choice. Visit the beach for stunning views, calm waters, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Elwood Beach#6
What stands out
  • Accessible 3-4 hour parking nearby

  • Picnic areas and restrooms close to the beach

  • Great line of sight to the city

  • Beautiful walk and fresh salt water air

Elwood Beach

4.5790 reviews
Victoria, Australia

Elwood Beach offers a serene escape for beach lovers in Victoria, Australia. With a high rating of 4.5, this beach provides a mix of relaxation and fun activities.

Customers praise the beach for its cleanliness, stunning views, and family-friendly atmosphere. Come and enjoy the magic of Elwood Beach today!

Williamstown beach#7
What stands out
  • Visitors rave about the peaceful ambiance and stunning sunset views.

  • The beach is well-maintained, with clean facilities and convenient amenities.

  • Many guests highlight the ample space available, even during peak hours, making it a great spot for relaxation.

Williamstown beach

4.5735 reviews
Victoria 3016, Australia

Williamstown Beach is a beloved waterfront destination that offers crystal-clear waters and a serene atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, or indulge in a refreshing swim, this beach has something for everyone.

With a solid 4.5-star rating from 735 reviews, it's evident that Williamstown Beach is a top choice for locals and tourists seeking a slice of paradise by the sea.

Sandringham Beach#8
What stands out
  • The beach and its surroundings are absolutely beautiful, offering a peaceful escape from city life.

  • It is a family-friendly destination, easily accessible by train and perfect for taking in the coastal views.

  • Visitors have enjoyed stunning sunsets, calm swimming conditions, and the convenience of nearby amenities.

  • Overall, Sandringham Beach is a hidden gem, providing a chill atmosphere and a large, peaceful beach perfect for a day out with family or friends.

Sandringham Beach

4.6388 reviews
Victoria, Australia

Sandringham Beach is a beautiful and family-friendly beach located in Victoria, Australia. With a rating of 4.6 out of 5, it is clear that visitors have had amazing experiences at this stunning location. The beach front town of Sandringham offers a relaxing getaway from the city, with unpolluted views of the sky, coastline, and ocean. Many visitors enjoy leisurely walks with their dogs, sunbathing, and dining at local restaurants. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Hampton Beach#9
What stands out
  • A great escape during lockdown with multiple ramps for accessibility.

  • Perfect spot for families with ample sand space for kids to roam freely.

  • Excellent for jogging, walking, or leisurely strolls along the coastal path.

  • Dog-friendly beach with clear line of sight for pet owners.

Hampton Beach

4.5333 reviews
Victoria, Australia

Hampton Beach is a popular destination in Victoria, Australia, known for its beautiful sandy shores and tranquil atmosphere. This beach offers a variety of services and features that cater to different preferences, making it an ideal spot for families, solo travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Customer reviews rave about the peaceful ambiance, spacious sand areas, and picturesque views. Here are some key points from recent visitors:

Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, take a relaxing stroll, or enjoy a family day out, Hampton Beach offers a little something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and serenity of this charming beach getaway.

Mothers Beach#10
What stands out
  • A large and clean beach with calm waters, perfect for a tranquil experience.

  • Great spot for families with shallow waters, ample parking, and nearby dining options.

  • Beautiful location with plenty of photo opportunities and potential wildlife sightings.

  • Highly recommended for its cleanliness, safety, and family-friendly facilities.

Mothers Beach

4.596 reviews
Victoria, Australia

Mothers Beach is a popular destination in Victoria, Australia, known for its tranquil environment and calm waters. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim or beach walk, with ample parking options and nearby dining establishments. The beach is particularly family-friendly, with shallow waters and facilities like picnic areas, BBQs, and public toilets available. Customers have praised Mothers Beach for its cleanliness, safety, and proximity to key amenities.

St. Kilda Beach#11
What stands out
  • A beautiful place to go for a walk, exercise, or take the dog

  • Cool weather with a garden for picnics, biking, and running

  • Good beach for a walk with a positive atmosphere

  • One of the best beaches to relax and unwind

St. Kilda Beach

4.813 reviews
Victoria 3182, Australia

St. Kilda Beach is a pristine destination known for its beauty and serenity. Whether visitors are looking to engage in outdoor activities, take a leisurely stroll, or simply relax by the water, this beach has it all. The well-maintained gardens and clean beachfront provide the perfect backdrop for a day of enjoyment. A standout feature of this area is the arts district, adding a touch of culture to the natural surroundings.

Sandridge Beach#12
What stands out
  • Incredibly beautiful and peaceful atmosphere

  • Nearby amenities such as cafes and picnic areas

  • Great for children to paddle in calm waters

  • Quiet and relaxing environment away from the crowds

Sandridge Beach

4.631 reviews
The Blvd, Port Melbourne VIC 3207, Australia

Sandridge Beach is a beloved public beach in Port Melbourne, Australia, known for its serene beauty and family-friendly amenities. The beach offers wheelchair-accessible facilities, public toilets, and is ideal for kids.

Customers have praised Sandridge Beach for the following:

With a rating of 4.6 and 31 reviews, Sandridge Beach continues to enchant visitors with its stunning views of the city skyline and gentle surf. Experience a day of relaxation and fun at Sandridge Beach!

South Melbourne Beach#13
What stands out
  • Fantastic beach with tidy public bathrooms and nearby cafes and restaurants

  • Beautiful views with the possibility of witnessing southern lights

  • Great place for beach volleyball and family-friendly swimming

  • Scenic location for capturing sunset and sunrise views

South Melbourne Beach

4.531 reviews
74 Beaconsfield Parade, Albert Park VIC 3206, Australia

South Melbourne Beach is a serene park located in Albert Park VIC that offers a range of amenities and services for visitors. The park is accessible with facilities like wheelchair-accessible car parks and is perfect for families with children as it is good for kids and birthdays. Dogs are also allowed, making it a pet-friendly location.

Customers have rated South Melbourne Beach highly, giving it an impressive 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 31 reviews. Some key points from customer feedback include:

Visit South Melbourne Beach for a relaxing day out in nature, with the beach providing a calming and family-friendly environment for visitors to enjoy.

Royal Beach#14
What stands out
  • A nice dog beach with plenty of socialization opportunities for furry companions.

  • Great for exploring with plenty of rocks and interesting marine life such as fish, stingrays, sea stars, and more.

  • Beautiful beach environment but not recommended for swimming due to rocks and some stagnant water in places.

  • Secluded and quiet location with shallow water perfect for dogs to jump in and swim, although caution advised due to occasional presence of stingrays.

Royal Beach

4.027 reviews
Mornington VIC, Australia

Royal Beach is a charming spot in Mornington VIC, Australia, offering a unique experience for beach enthusiasts and their furry friends. At this designated dog beach, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from socializing with other dogs to exploring rock pools and shallow swimming areas. The beach also features rocks perfect for climbing and exploring, adding an element of adventure to your day by the water.

Some key points from customer reviews include:

With an overall rating of 4.0 stars from 27 reviews, Royal Beach clearly captures the hearts of dog owners and beach lovers alike. It's a must-visit destination for those seeking a pet-friendly and adventurous beach experience.

Sandringham Harbour Beach#15
What stands out
  • Perfect beach for doggos and paddle boards.

  • Beautiful, clean, and tranquil

Sandringham Harbour Beach

3.85 reviews
Victoria, Australia

Sandringham Harbour Beach is a picturesque beach located in Victoria, Australia. With a rating of 3.8 stars, it offers a wonderful experience for beach lovers. The beach is known for being clean, tranquil, and beautiful. Visitors can enjoy activities like paddleboarding and walking dogs along the shore. The business has received positive reviews from customers. Here are some key points from the reviews:

Fosters Beach#16
What stands out
  • Beautiful pebbled shoreline

  • Serene and peaceful atmosphere

  • Breathtaking views

Fosters Beach

3.26 reviews
Mornington VIC, Australia

Fosters Beach is a popular destination in Mornington VIC, Australia, known for its unique pebbled shoreline and serene atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk along the beach, take in the breathtaking views, and unwind under the sun. The beach is a favorite spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and connect with nature.

With a rating of 3.2, Fosters Beach has received mixed reviews from visitors. Some have highlighted the beauty of the pebbled shoreline and the calming ambiance, while others have mentioned the presence of rocks and dead puffer fish in the area. Overall, it seems like a relaxing spot for a quick visit and nature appreciation. Experience a tranquil getaway at Fosters Beach and immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural surroundings.

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1St Kilda beach 4.52,413
#2Mentone Beach 4.6796
#3Port Melbourne Beach 4.51,168
#4Altona Beach 4.41,503
#5Middle Park Beach 4.5856
#6Elwood Beach 4.5790
#7Williamstown beach 4.5735
#8Sandringham Beach 4.6388
#9Hampton Beach 4.5333
#10Mothers Beach 4.596
#11St. Kilda Beach 4.813
#12Sandridge Beach 4.631
#13South Melbourne Beach 4.531
#14Royal Beach 4.027
#15Sandringham Harbour Beach 3.85
#16Fosters Beach 3.26

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Map of Beaches in Melbourne for Swimming

Melbourne is renowned for its beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a secluded cove to unwind, Melbourne's coastline has something for everyone. Check out the map below to discover the best beaches in Melbourne for swimming.

How to choose Beaches in Melbourne

  1. Facilities such as lifeguards.
  2. Water quality and cleanliness.
  3. Accessibility and parking.
  4. Scenic views and surrounding amenities.

Frequently asked questions

Best beaches for swimming

Melbourne boasts some fantastic beaches that are ideal for swimming. One of the most popular choices is St. Kilda Beach, which offers a wide expanse of sand and calm waters perfect for a dip. Brighton Beach is another great option, known for its iconic colorful bathing boxes and safe swimming conditions. For those who prefer a quieter experience, Half Moon Bay is a hidden gem with crystal-clear waters and a more secluded atmosphere. If you're looking for family-friendly beaches, Williamstown Beach is a top pick. It features a protected swimming area and plenty of amenities such as barbecue facilities and playgrounds. For those seeking some adventure, Sorrento Beach on the Mornington Peninsula is a great choice. It's popular for snorkeling and diving due to its clear waters and abundant marine life.

Water quality and safety

When it comes to water quality, Melbourne's beaches are regularly monitored to ensure they meet health standards. The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) provides updates on water quality at different beaches, so it's advisable to check their website or local signage before entering the water. Most beaches also have lifeguards on duty during peak times to ensure swimmers' safety. In terms of marine life, jellyfish and sharks are the main concerns for swimmers. Keep an eye out for warning signs and familiarize yourself with first aid procedures in case of encounters with jellyfish. While shark sightings are rare, it's recommended to heed any warnings issued by local authorities and swim in patrolled areas.

Beach amenities and facilities

Melbourne's beaches offer a range of amenities to enhance your swimming experience. Beachside cafes provide a convenient spot to grab a snack or coffee after your swim. Many beaches also have public toilets, showers, and changing facilities for visitors' comfort. If you're planning a day at the beach, consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the sand. Some beaches have picnic tables and barbecue areas available for public use. Don't forget to bring sunscreen and hats to protect yourself from the sun's rays, especially during the hot summer months.

Beach activities and events

In addition to swimming, Melbourne's beaches offer a variety of activities to enjoy. From beach volleyball and surfing to paddleboarding and kayaking, there's something for everyone. Water sports equipment rentals are available at some beaches for those looking to try something new. Throughout the year, Melbourne's beaches host events such as beach festivals, live music performances, and sports competitions. Keep an eye on local event calendars to make the most of your beach visit. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, Melbourne's beaches provide the perfect backdrop for a day of sun, sand, and sea.

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